There are positive effects of working in secondary school, although education is currently your full time job, getting paid work gives you an insight into the value of money and real world experiences that you won’t get at home or school. Below we have outlined the regulations and rules around getting a job at 16.
How Many Hours Can A 16-Year-Old Work?
How many hours can a 16-year-old work is a good question, and you should know your rights before starting a new job! Because you’re still in school, your working hours are restricted to fit around your studies.
During term time, you can only work a maximum of 12 hours a week. On school days and Sundays, you can only work a maximum of 2 hours. However, you cannot work before 7 am and after 7 pm. On Saturdays, you can work a maximum of 8 hours. That’s a whole days work!
During school holiday, you can work a maximum of 35 hours a week. This includes a maximum of 8 hours on weekdays and Saturdays. On Sunday you’re only allowed to work a maximum of 2 hours.
16-Year-Old Working Laws
There are a lot of rules and regulations for 16-year-olds who want to work in the UK. Depending on where you live in the UK; you will need to contact your local council and see what local bylaws are allowed. In some cases, some areas will allow a 16-year-old to work longer hours or at different places, so it is worth a check!
Another thing to note about working as a 16-year-old is that you’re not entitled to full workers rights. Because in the eyes of the law, you’re still a child and not yet an adult till you reach the age of 18. 16-year-old working laws means you cannot work in these areas:
- In places like a factory or industrial estate, pubs, gambling shops or other work areas that require an age limit of at least 18. You cannot work in a workplace that may be harmful to your health or well-being.
You’re entitled to a few special rules, just for you! You must be able to have at least 1 hour break after every 4 hours worked. You also must have a two-week break away from school and working your job once a year. (Lucky you!) It is against the law to work during school hours, so don’t try it, although tempting, we are sure!
Where Can 16-Year-Olds Work?
Now you know all the rules and regulations, so where can 16-year-old work? Luckily there are a lot of places that want people to cover shifts on Saturdays as long as you’re not working in a factory or a pub, you can pretty much work anywhere. Why don’t you create yourself a CV, and send your CV off to various places and try your luck? Remember to check out our jobs for 16-year-olds, too.
16-Year-Old Pay Rate
Having some extra cash is always nice! Here are the new pay rates from April 2022 and then from April 2023
| 18 to 20 | Under 18 | Apprentice | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 2022 (current rate) | £6.83 | £4.81 | £4.81 | ||
| April 2023 | £7.49 | £5.28 | £5.28 |
For parents and carers
As teenagers get older and start to take on more responsibility, many want to get a job to start earning their own money. You may be thrilled since teenagers can be expensive. While many teenagers work at some point during high school, you may also be wondering if it’s a good idea for your teenager to work.
There are definite benefits to teens holding down a job, including:
Earning money. This is usually the most obvious benefit, especially from your teen’s perspective. Having their own money to spend offers teenagers a tangible reward for their effort. From earning to spending to saving, they’ll learn important lessons in money management. They will also feel more independent and empowered. Working part-time is a great way for your child to transition into making their own money and learning to manage it effectively.
Learning important skills. High school students who work learn good time-management skills and organisation. They learn important communication skills and how to work on a team. They develop a work history and can take those skills with them to the adult working world.
Building character. Working teaching kids responsibility and accountability. They can also learn to take initiative, function independently, and keep commitments.
Are There Disadvantages to Teenagers Working?
One of the biggest disadvantages to having a job for teens is that work and after-school activities may conflict. If your teenager is involved in sports or a lot of other extra-curricular activities, they may not be able to keep up with them if they start a job. If they are taking a heavy load of classes, work may interfere with homework and school projects.
However a good, safe job that fits well with your teenager’s schedule can teach them responsibility as well as giving them some new freedom. Whatever they decide to do with your guidance we wish them luck!
