Ways to earn
It’s a tricky question for teens: should you get a part-time job and build up some work experience, or focus on your school work so you have the best chance of acing your grades?
Employers and universities say that they actively look for work experience in applications, so a part-time job can look really positive on your CV.
But every teenager is different. It's important to balance the benefits of a job with making sure you have plenty of time for homework and relaxing.
Your Smart Start guides
Your questions about earning
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Understandably, there are restrictions on how, when and where you can work at sixteen. Here are the key things to know.
Term-time rules:
During term time at 16, you can work a maximum of 12 hours a week. This includes:
- a maximum of 2 hours on school days and Sundays.
- a maximum of 8 hours on Saturdays.
School holiday rules:
16-year-olds can work a maximum of 35 hours a week. This includes:
- a maximum of 8 hours on weekdays and Saturdays.
- a maximum of 2 hours on Sundays.
Pay:
Once you’re 16 you should be paid at least the National Minimum Wage, which currently stands at £4.62 per hour (2021).
Type of work:
You’re not allowed to work in betting shops, in most roles in pubs or in an environment that could be bad for your education or well-being. Contact your local council’s education department or education welfare service if you want to find out more.
You can find out more about the rules on GOV.UK.
Information correct as of June 2021.
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