Teens and work

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At some point, your son or daughter is probably going to want to earn their own money by getting a part-time job.

Use our guide to how much they're allowed to do, depending on how old they are

Some schools discourage pupils from working after school hours in case it interferes with homework. Talk this over with your teenager. Point out the importance of getting the right balance. If they insist on still doing a job, keep an eye on their school progress.

Getting them working

They may want a job to bring in a bit of money and give them independence. Do encourage them but be aware of the law and the pitfalls attached to children working.

Legally, only children aged 13 years or over can be employed in any work.
They're not allowed to work before 7am or after 7pm on any day or for more than two hours on any school day or Sunday.
On Saturdays, kids can work a maximum of five hours (up to 25 hours a week).
Children over 15 can work a maximum of eight hours a day on Saturdays and in school holidays (maximum 35 hours a week).
Employers must notify the local authority of hours and conditions of a child's employment and produce a medical certificate that the work won't affect their health or physical development or make them unfit for school.