Finding jobs for 16 year olds in the UK can be really exciting. Whether you want some extra cash, gain work experience, or take a step towards a career, there are lots of options out there. Some jobs don’t need any experience, which is great for beginners. Additionally, other roles help you learn valuable skills. So, it’s a win-win situation. Just dive in and explore what’s available. You never know what you might discover.
Here’s everything you need to know. First off, we’ll explore job options that are available to you. Then, we’ll dive into UK work laws, especially for underage workers. It’s important to understand your rights. Also, if you're interested in construction, we've got something for you. We’ll introduce some great courses from the College of Contract Management. Let’s get started and find the right path for you.
Are jobs for 16 year olds allowed in the UK?
Yes, there are jobs for 16-year-olds in the UK, but there are some important rules to follow. These laws are in place to protect young workers. They help ensure that work doesn’t interfere with education. It’s really about finding that balance. Also, it’s important for young people to learn responsibility and gain experience. However, they should never feel overwhelmed, as school comes first. Overall, working can be great, but education must always be a priority.
Working hours restrictions
If you’re still in school, you can only work:
- A maximum of 12 hours a week during term time.
- Up to 8 hours a day and 35 hours a week during holidays.
- Only between 7 AM and 7 PM
You also cannot work in dangerous environments. For example, some jobs in construction or factory work are off-limits. Night shifts are not an option either. It’s important to stay safe, after all. If you think about it, there are plenty of safer jobs out there. Just keep this in mind when looking for work. You should really focus on finding something that won’t put you at risk.
The national minimum wage for jobs for 16 year olds
If you’re 16, you're entitled to the minimum wage. In 2025, it’s set to be £6.40 per hour. That’s great news. However, things can change, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on official sources for any updates. Also, being aware of changes can help you plan better. Just make sure to stay informed. It’s always good to know your rights.
Best jobs for 16 year olds in the UK
There are a lot of jobs for 16 year olds that you can explore. For instance, you might consider part-time gigs like working in a café or a shop. Additionally, there are also opportunities that could become long-term careers later on, like internships or apprenticeships. So, whether you’re looking to earn some pocket money or really start your career, there’s something out there for you. It’s a great time to dive in and see what you enjoy.
Retail and customer service jobs
Retail jobs are fantastic for picking up valuable skills. First off, they teach you how to provide excellent customer service. Additionally, you get hands-on experience with handling money. Overall, they’re a great way to learn and grow. Many shops have jobs for 16 year olds such as:
- Shop assistant: Stock shelves and assist customers.
- Cashier: Handle payments and work at the till.
- Warehouse Assistant: Pack and organise stock.
Many of these jobs tend to pay just the minimum wage. However, they also provide flexible hours. So, if you need a side gig, this might be a good option for you. It’s definitely worth considering.
Hospitality Jobs
The hospitality industry is always hiring, which is great news for people who are looking for jobs for 16 year olds. Whether you're looking for part-time work or something full-time, there are plenty of opportunities available. That said, if you’re interested, now might be the perfect time to apply. If you like working with people, consider the following:
- Waiter/waitress: Serve food and drinks.
- Kitchen assistant: Help in the kitchen and wash dishes.
- Fast food worker: Take orders and prepare meals.
Some roles come with tips that can really boost your earnings. As a result, they can make a big difference. So, if you're considering a job, keep this in mind. It’s a great way to increase your income on top of your salary.
Babysitting and Pet Care
If you love kids or animals, then babysitting or pet care these jobs for 16 year olds could be perfect for you. These jobs can be fun and rewarding. Additionally, you get to spend time with little ones and furry friends. It’s a win-win. Many parents need help with:
- Evening babysitting: Watching children while parents go out.
- Dog walking: Taking dogs out when owners are busy.
- Pet sitting: Looking after pets while owners are away.
You can set your own rates and choose flexible hours.
Online and freelance jobs
The Internet has opened up countless opportunities for young workers. For instance, they can find jobs for 16 year olds online and connect with people around the world. As a result, they can learn new skills easily. Overall, it’s a game-changer for their careers. If you’re tech-savvy, consider:
- Freelance writing: Write blog posts, stories, or product descriptions.
- Graphic designs: Create digital artwork and social media graphics.
- Tutoring: Teach subjects like English, maths, or science online.
These jobs let you work from home, which is great. Lastly, you can also build a portfolio and build further credibility as a freelancer, which will bring you higher-paying work in the future. In these jobs, you’ll gain experience while being comfortable. It’s a win-win situation. Overall, it’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to grow.
Apprenticeships
If you're looking for hands-on experience, an apprenticeship is a fantastic option. You can learn a trade while also earning some money. This makes it a great way to gain valuable skills without getting stuck in a classroom. Popular apprenticeship jobs for 16 year olds include:
- Construction apprenticeships: Gain office and admin skills.
- IT apprenticeships: Learn coding and software development.
Apprentices earn at least £6.40 per hour and receive on-the-job training.
Skills you can learn from part-time jobs
Even if a job isn’t exactly your dream career, it can still teach you a lot. For example, working in different roles helps you pick up important skills. These skills can come in handy down the line and boost your chances of landing the role you're after. So, even if you're not excited about the position, think about the experience you’re gaining. In fact, you might be surprised by how these lessons can help you in the future.
Transferable Skills
Most jobs for 16 year olds help develop:
- Communication: Talking to customers and colleagues.
- Time management: Balancing work with school and hobbies.
- Teamwork: Working with others to get tasks done.
- Problem-solving: Handling challenges at work.
Career-Specific Skills
Some jobs provide industry-specific skills, such as:
- Retail jobs: Learn cash handling and stock management.
- Hospitality jobs: Gain customer service and food preparation.
- Freelance work: Develop digital skills and creative abilities.
Career paths in construction for 16 year olds
If you’re interested in construction, there are some great jobs for 16 year olds opportunities out there. However, roles requiring you to handle heavy machinery or work at dangerous heights may be off-limits. Still, you can easily start with part-time work or even apprenticeships, which are a great way to learn the ropes. Then, as you gain experience, you can take professional courses. This way, you’ll be on your way to qualifying for some high-paying roles. With all that, why not dive in and explore what the construction field has to offer?
Why choose construction?
The construction industry offers:
- Job security: The UK always needs skilled workers.
- Good pay: Skilled workers earn high salaries.
- Career growth: Many opportunities to progress.
Entry-level jobs include:
- Labourer: Assist builders with tasks.
- Trainer bricklayer: Learn to lay bricks and build structures.
- Construction apprentice: Work while studying for qualifications.
College of Contract Management courses for future builders
After doing jobs for 16 year olds, let’s say you found yourself aiming to build a career in construction, then getting the right education is really important. Luckily, the College of Contract Management offers some great online courses. You can choose from construction, business, and IT. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your skills, these courses could be a perfect fit. For this reason, studying online gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace.
Construction courses
For those interested in hands-on work courses include:
- Quantity Surveying: Study budgeting and cost estimation.
- Construction Management: Learn how to manage building projects.
- Site Management: Qualify for high-level site management jobs.
Other courses
If you prefer planning and organisation, consider the following:
- Project Management: Learn how to lead construction projects.
- Business Administration: Gain skills in office management.
- Digital Marketing: Understand online advertising and promotion.
These courses help you get ready for leadership roles in the industry. They offer useful skills, and insights, and are very engaging and practical. So, you can learn easily and apply it to real-world situations. It's all about growing your career.
Final Thoughts
In the UK, there are loads of jobs for 16 year olds. You can find work in retail, hospitality, and even apprenticeships. But If you’re keen on building a future in construction, getting started early can be a real game-changer. It’ll help you gain valuable experience and skills. Overall, starting young not only boosts your chances but also sets you up for success down the line. It’s definitely worth considering.
A great way to boost your professional development is by learning new skills with the College of Contract Management. Gaining work experience contributes immensely as well. You could even consider taking some professional courses. Whether you kick things off with a weekend job or dive into an apprenticeship, every little step counts. Each experience will bring you you closer to your goals. Get started as early as today and watch how it all comes together.
