How many projects should a portfolio have?

3–5 strong projects beat 15 average ones.

Can I include college coursework?

Yes if it's high quality and real-world adjacent.

Yes — a link at the top of the CV lifts interview rates significantly.

Portfolio · 6 min read

How Somerset apprentices should build a portfolio in 2026 — what to include, hosting, and the projects that impress employers most.

By Jack Frampton, Apprentice Advocate working at Queen's College, Taunton · Published 15 July 2026

A portfolio is often what gets an apprentice hired or promoted. Here's how to build one in 2026, whether you're in marketing, business or a trade.

3–5 projects, each with brief, work, outcome, learnings.

Notion for speed, custom site for polish. Free options work fine.

Real numbers where possible. Screenshots. A short reflection.

How many projects should a portfolio have?: 3–5 strong projects beat 15 average ones.
Can I include college coursework?: Yes if it's high quality and real-world adjacent.
Should I put my portfolio on my CV?: Yes — a link at the top of the CV lifts interview rates significantly.
How often should I update it?: Quarterly at minimum.