Free, copy-and-paste email templates for UK counselling trainees at every stage of the placement application process. Adapt each one to match your voice and circumstances.
Available templates
Initial enquiry email — A short, warm first contact when you've found a provider but they don't have an open recruitment page. Mention your modality, training stage, awarding body, and a genuine reason you're drawn to that service.
Formal application cover letter — When the provider has a structured application or asks for a covering letter alongside your CV. Covers modality, training history, what you can offer, and what documents are available.
Polite follow-up after no reply — Send 7–10 working days after your first email. Brief and gracious — acknowledges that placement coordinators are busy.
Thank-you note after an interview — A short note within 24 hours that references a specific detail from your conversation. Helps you stand out without being over-the-top.
Graceful decline letter — For when you've received an offer but have decided to accept a different placement. Keeps the door open for future contact.
Tips for all placement emails
Always personalise — reference something specific about the provider, not just a generic expression of interest.
Keep emails short — under 300 words for an initial enquiry.
Include your modality, training stage, awarding body, and available start date in every application.
Confirm that you have (or are arranging) insurance and DBS in your first email — this removes a common barrier.
Use a professional email address, ideally firstname.lastname@domain.com.