Whatever the reason, if you're under 18 and want to start the grind early - we're here to help. Some look for a job to feel more independent with income and help their family. Others, to make the decision between university and work.
Whatever it is, don't worry. We'll help you understand your rights as a young worker and get your career started on the right page! So, get your pen and paper out and take notes!
Starting your career and under 18? We're here to help!
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Know Your Rights
No matter what you've heard from your friends or someone on the internet, do your homework. So, research your right to work. And if you're having trouble with that, ask your guardian or a teacher for help. Most importantly, in the UK, children are able to take on part-time work from the age of 13.
13/14-Year-Olds
During term-time you can work a maximum of 12 hours a week. Also, you must have at least 2 weeks off work during school holidays. And during the school holidays, you can work up to 25 hours a week.
Hours
If you’re 13 or 14, you cannot work during school hours. You also can't work before 7am or after 7pm and for 4 consecutive hours without a break. On top off that, you can’t work longer than an hour before your school day starts.
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There are also places where you cannot work at that age. Those include factories, industrial sites, pubs or anywhere that can negatively affect your health and wellbeing and education. However, there are still plenty of roles you can get into:
- Dog walking or cat sitting
- Car washing
- Sports coaching
- Retail
- Website design
- Delivering the papers
- Babysitting
- Blogging
Pay
Are you 14 and under? If so, there is no minimum wage that applies to you. The pay will depend on the work you do and what you agreed on between yourself and your employer.
15-Year-Olds
Working hours during term-time for 15-year-olds and 14-year-olds stay the same. With one exception. On holidays you’re able to work up to 35 hours a week. So, you may want to consider the roles above, look at waitressing or kitchen porter jobs!
16 and 17-Year-Olds
Your term time hours are the same, as your education is still a priority. However, during school holidays you’re able to work 40 hours a week and are entitled to the National Minimum Wage. Although, the amount is dependent on your age so don't forget that.
This is a great opportunity to look at the jobs above. And even more, you’ll get a chance to get your foot in the door and experience the working world.
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Starting Your Career
As with everything, starting is the hardest part. Looking for a job is not much different. We all know the cycle of needing experience to get a job but need a job to get the experience. So, we suggest you try to volunteer if you can. If not, get started on your cover letter, and get help with your CV (view our CV Builder here).
Here to Help
These things take practice and time. And don’t worry if you don’t get the first role you apply for. Remember that every interview is an achievement regardless of the outcome! No matter what, we're here to help you kick off your career with our advice and tips! If you can and want to work in the kitchen or as a waiter/waitress, have a look at our vacancies!