Minimum age children can work
Children have to be at least 13 years old to work part-time. They can only work a set number of hours and must have a break.
Some entertainment work is allowed for children under 13, but this needs a child performance licence.
School-aged children aren’t entitled to the National Minimum Wage. Read more about child employment – GOV.UK.
Attending school
Children can’t work during school hours. A child’s work must not interfere with their education. School should be a priority.
Children taking part in licensed performance may work during the school day, if permission is granted.
Working hours
There are strict limits based on a child’s age, the day of the week, and whether it’s during school term time or holidays.
Children aren’t allowed to work before 7am or after 7pm or during the school day.
Daily limits
Saturday:
- ages 13–14: up to 5 hours
- ages 15+: up to 8 hours
Sunday:
- all ages: up to 2 hours
School term:
- all ages: up to 2 hours per day
- this can be either 1 hour before school and 1 hour after school, or 2 hours after school.
School Holidays:
- ages 13–14: up to 5 hours per day (except Sundays)
- ages 15+: up to 8 hours per day (except Sundays)
Weekly Limits
School term:
- all ages: up to 12 hours per week
School holidays:
- ages 13–14: up to 25 hours per week
- ages 15+: up to 35 hours per week
Breaks from work
Children must have:
- at least 1 hour’s break after 4 hours of work
- a 2-week break from work during school holidays