Are you a young dreamer, eager to make your mark on the world and achieve success in your future career? Well, you’re not alone! In The Big Ask, children across the UK said that jobs were a top priority. They expressed that they want to get on and do well. They want to work hard, and spoke in terms not just of jobs, but careers. Jobs are no longer just about earning pocket money; they are stepping stones to fulfilling careers that align with their passions and aspirations.
The Children’s Commissioner for England believes it is crucial to support and nurture these ambitious young minds. She believes that every child deserves the opportunity to become a successful adult, and that includes providing them with the necessary tools to kick-start their journey towards a bright and promising future.
One fantastic way to empower young individuals is by encouraging them to take up part-time or Saturday jobs. Not only does this allow them to earn some money, but it also equips them with invaluable experiences and hones their skills and abilities. By getting a taste of the workforce at an early age, they can start building their CVs and carving a path towards their dream career.
“But aren’t there age restrictions?” you might wonder. Yes, there are, but fear not! Children as young as 14 are legally allowed to engage in paid ‘light’ work, with a limitation of up to 5 hours on a Saturday. Once they reach 15 and 16, the time extends to 8 hours. This means that even during their school years, they can dedicate a healthy amount of time to both studies and skill-building through part-time employment.
Moreover, taking on part-time jobs at a young age exposes them to various responsibilities, including customer-facing roles. Imagine how valuable it is for them to learn to work with the public, manage tasks efficiently, and handle pressure—all while earning money and gaining practical experience!
Now, let’s talk about one of the most significant concerns – fair compensation. School-aged children are not entitled to the National Minimum Wage, but 16- and 17-year-olds can expect a low level of National Minimum Wage. The current rate for these young workers is at least £5.28 per hour, ensuring they are fairly rewarded for their time and efforts.
Of course, we understand that choosing a future career path can be daunting. That’s why we recommend exploring your interests and matching them with potential roles. One fun way to do this is by taking an online quiz, which can offer various career ideas tailored to your passions.
Remember, it’s essential to know your rights as a young worker. We advise all aspiring job-seekers to check the government website for comprehensive information on employment laws and regulations.
Parents and carers, it’s important for employers to get a permit from the Local Authority (LA) where your child works. This permit allows the LA to check if the workplace is safe and if there are plans to keep everyone protected. It’s also crucial for the LA where you live and your child’s school to know about their work.
The good news is that these permits are free. If children work without this special permission, they might not be insured if something goes wrong. Plus, they could end up doing things that are not allowed by the law. So, parents, carers make sure your child’s employer has the right permit to keep them safe and within the legal rules!
In conclusion, the journey towards a successful future starts with small steps, and part-time jobs are the perfect stepping stones for young achievers like you. Embrace opportunities to gain experience, sharpen your skills, and expand your horizons while earning a little something on the side.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step today and seize your chance to become the ambitious, capable, and unstoppable adult you aspire to be! Together, let’s build a brighter future filled with young people who aspire to gain the skills, that will help them excel in their careers.
