Saturday job search
Question
I want to get a part-time job so I have some spending money. What work can I get at 16 and how do I go about finding a job?
Answer
Part time work can be a great way of making extra cash and gaining both independence and experience in the workplace.
According to Connexions, if you're 15 or 16:
- You can only work up to two hours a day on school days; an hour before school and one hour after school;
- In term time you can work up to eight hours on a Saturday and two hours on a Sunday.
Different rules apply if you're above school leaving age. If you're above school leaving age:
- You must not work more than eight hours a day, or more than 40 hours a week;
- You must have 12 hours' rest between each working day, and two rest days per working week;
- You are also entitled to a 30-minute rest break when you work for longer than four-and-a-half hours.
There is also the option of part-time work during the summer holidays. According to the Directgov website, once you are 16, you can work for eight hours a day, but no more than 40 hours per week during your holidays.
It's important that you know your rights at work and the Connexions provides more information on this. There is also a National Minimum Wage, it applies to nearly all workers and sets the minimum rate of hourly pay you're entitled to.
When it comes to finding part time or weekend work word of mouth can be a great way in. Do any of your friends have jobs in a place where there might be vacancies? Do your friends and neighbours know of anywhere that might take you on? You could also look in local papers or shop windows in your area, or if you are still at school or college, you could check the notice boards.
If you want to speak to someone further about your options, you could call to Connexions Direct on 080 800 13 2 19. The helpline offers information on a wide range of topics as well as confidential advice and practical help.
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