From what age and for how many hours can a teenager work in the UK

A teenager wants a Saturday job in a cafe or a shop — and it turns out child employment in Britain runs on detailed arithmetic: hours, times of day, breaks and a permit from the local council. Here is how it works.

From what age can a child work?

Part-time work is generally allowed from 14. Some local council areas allow it from 13 — check with your council's education department.

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Under 14, work is possible in areas such as television, theatre and modelling, but it requires a performance licence.

How many hours during term time?

No more than 12 hours a week. On a school day and on Sunday, no more than 2 hours. On Saturday: 5 hours for 14 year olds and 8 hours for 15 to 16 year olds.

And in the school holidays?

Fourteen year olds: up to 25 hours a week — 5 hours on weekdays and Saturdays, 2 hours on Sundays. Fifteen and sixteen year olds: up to 35 hours a week — 8 hours on weekdays and Saturdays, 2 hours on Sundays.

Which hours are off limits?

Not before 7am and not after 7pm. Not during school hours. And no more than one hour before school, unless local bylaws allow more.

Breaks and time off

No more than 4 hours of work without a break of at least an hour. And in each calendar year there must be a two-week break from work during the school holidays.

Where can a child not work?

The list of prohibited jobs is set by local bylaws, and a child under the minimum school leaving age cannot do work on that list. Children also cannot work in places such as a factory or industrial site, unless it is part of work experience. And no work that may harm their health, well-being or education.

Is a permit needed?

Some areas require an employment permit from the council's education department. Local bylaws may also add restrictions on hours, conditions and types of employment — so start with the council, not with the job advert.

What about after school?

Full-time work is only possible once the minimum school leaving age is reached, and then up to 40 hours a week. From 16 an employer may need to pay them through PAYE. Adult employment rights apply from 18. In England, young people must stay in at least part-time education or training until 18.

Checked against GOV.UK on 27 October 2026. Local council rules may be stricter.