Home >> Work and Training >> Finding work >> Under 16? The rules about working

If you want to work while you are under 16 there are certain rules and regulations you need to be aware of.

For whatever type of work you do, you will need a work permit before you can start. These are issued by your local authority. You can get an application form from your school.

Working hours for young people aged 13 - 16

When	How long at 13 & 14	How long at 15 & 16
School days	2 hours in total	2 hours in total
	Only 1 hour before 7am and start of school	Only 1 hour before 7am and start of school
	Not after 7pm	Not after 7pm
Saturdays	5 hours between 7am & 7pm	8 hours between 7am & 7pm
Sundays	2 hours between 7 am & 7pm	2 hours between 7 am & 7pm
	No more than 12 hours in a school week	No more than 12 hours in a school week
School holidays	5 hours on any day between 7 am & 7pm (and no more than 2 hours on a Sunday)	8 hours on any day between 7 am & 7pm (and no more than 2 hours on a Sunday)
	Maximum of 25 hours per week	Maximum of 35 hours in a week
	Must have a break of 2 weeks free from work in a year	Must have a break of 2 weeks free from work in a year
	Must have a rest break of  1 hour every 4 hours	Must have a rest break of  1 hour every 4 hours

There are also rules limiting the type of work you can do. You should only be employed in 'light' work. 

Work involving hazardous situations, for example with dangerous chemicals, in commercial kitchens, in a factory or collecting refuse for example are not allowed. You need to have suitable clothes and shoes if you are working outdoors.

You could get yourself and your employer into trouble if you do not follow the rules set down.

Cambridgeshire County Council has more detailed information on its website, and information about how to get a work permit - use the link on this page.

 

 

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