Careers Resources

Guide to Part time Jobs

Part

Part Time Job

Part-Time Jobs at 16

Once you have reached the official school leaving date (the last Friday in June of Year 11), you can work more hours and in a wider range of jobs. However, in England you must still stay in education or training until you are 18.

This means you can work alongside:

  • Sixth Form
  • College
  • An apprenticeship
  • A training programme
  • Part-time education while working or volunteering

If you are still in Year 11 (compulsory school age) The law places tighter limits on the amount of work you can do.

During term time you can work a maximum of:

  • 12 hours per week
  • Up to 2 hours on a school day
  • Weekends and evenings only

During school holidays if you are aged 15 to 16, you can work up to:

  • 35 hours per week
  • Up to 8 hours per day on weekdays and Saturdays
  • Up to 2 hours on Sundays
  • Other rules
  • No work before 7am or after 7pm
  • Rest breaks must be provided
  • At least two consecutive weeks' holiday from work each year

If you have reached the school leaving date - Once compulsory school age has ended, you are classed as a young worker.

You can usually work:

  • Up to 8 hours a day
  • Up to 40 hours a week

You must also receive:

  • A 30-minute break if working more than 4.5 hours
  • 12 hours' rest between shifts
  • At least 2 days off each week

How much will you be paid? If you are still of compulsory school age - There is no legal minimum wage for children who have not yet reached the school leaving date. Pay rates are set by the employer.

If you have reached the school leaving date - The National Minimum Wage for 16 to 17 year olds applies.

You should always:

  • Receive a payslip
  • Be paid through payroll
  • Know your rate of pay before starting work

Do you need permission or paperwork?

You may need:

  • Proof of age (passport or birth certificate)
  • Your National Insurance number
  • Parental consent (some employers)
  • A contract or written agreement

Work permits

If you are still of compulsory school age, your employer may need to apply for a child employment permit from the local authority.

For Sandwell residents:

https://www.sandwell.gov.uk/schools-education/child-employment

Once you have reached the official school leaving date, child employment permits are generally no longer required.