Starting your first job at 16 is a significant milestone—it’s a chance to earn your own money, gain valuable life skills, and take those first steps toward independence. But what opportunities are available for you as a teen, and what do you need to know before you jump into the working world?
If you’re 16 and wondering, “What jobs can I actually get in the UK?” this guide covers it all—from the types of jobs available, how to land your first role, your legal rights as a young worker, and ways to turn part-time experiences into future career opportunities.
Why Working at 16 is a Great First Step
Getting a job at 16 isn’t just about the paycheck. It’s about learning responsibility, building confidence, and gaining insight into what you might enjoy as a career. Whether you’re saving for college, gaining real-world experience, or just looking for a way to fill your weekends productively, the working world has plenty to offer.
The UK also has specific rules in place to guide young workers and ensure their rights and safety, including restrictions on hours and the types of jobs you can do. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
What Types of Jobs are Available for 16-Year-Olds?
At 16, there’s a wide variety of jobs to choose from. Whether you’re interested in working with people, being active, or doing something creative, there’s likely a role that will suit you. Here are a few industries and job types to consider:
1. Retail Jobs
Retail stores are one of the most popular first-job choices for teens. Positions may include working as a sales assistant, working in stockrooms, or even tidying shop floors. Larger chains like Primark, Tesco, and Boots often hire younger workers.
Typical responsibilities involve helping customers, managing stock, and handling product displays. It’s a great way to build interpersonal and customer service skills.
2. Hospitality Jobs
Hospitality jobs offer flexibility and opportunities for 16-year-olds. You could find work as a server, barista, or kitchen assistant in cafes, restaurants, or fast-food chains like McDonald’s or Greggs.
Pro-tip: Evening and weekend shifts in hospitality make these positions a great fit if you’re balancing school commitments.
3. Babysitting and Pet Sitting
Prefer working in a more personal setting? Babysitting and pet sitting are excellent options. Parents are often looking for reliable, responsible teens to care for their loved ones. Bonus points if you’re CPR or pet first-aid trained!
4. Office Work and Internships
Many companies now offer part-time office roles or internships aimed at young workers. Duties may involve data entry, filing, and assisting with administrative tasks. These jobs can provide insight into professional work environments that could shape your future career choices.
5. Outdoor and Community-Based Jobs
Seasonal positions like delivering newspapers, working in gardens, or assisting at local community centers are great ways to stay active while earning.
6. Creative Freelancing
Love art, design, or social media? At 16, you might be able to offer your creative talents as a freelancer. For example, designing logos or managing small businesses’ social media accounts can be a rewarding way to combine passion and income.
Make sure to explore opportunities aligned with your interests and strengths!
How to Find Jobs at 16
Finding your first job can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some practical tips to help you get started on your job search.
1. Online Job Boards
Websites like Indeed, Reed, and StudentJob are excellent for finding part-time positions specifically suitable for younger workers. You can filter by location and search for “16-year-old jobs” to make the process even easier.
2. Local Businesses
Walk into your nearby shops, cafes, or gyms and drop off a CV. Many employers still prefer hiring local teenagers for roles like retail or hospitality.
3. Networking
Word of mouth goes a long way—talk to friends, family members, or teachers about any opportunities they might know of. They may help connect you to roles you didn’t know were available.
4. Social Media
Follow the pages of local businesses and community groups on platforms like Facebook or Instagram for updates on job openings.
5. Schools and Career Hubs
Some schools have career counselors or job boards advertising opportunities specifically for students. Be sure to tap into these resources.
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Preparing for Your First Job
Once you’ve found opportunities, it’s time to get ready for the application process. Securing your first job requires some effort, but these steps can make the experience smoother and less intimidating.
1. Craft a Teen-Friendly CV
- Keep it simple. Include your name, contact details, education, and any relevant experiences (like school projects or volunteering).
- Highlight transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, or organization.
2. Write a Strong Cover Letter
Your cover letter should be short but compelling. Mention why you’re excited about the role and briefly explain any relevant skills or experiences.
3. Prepare for the Interview
Practice answering common questions like “Why do you want this job?” or “What are your strengths?” Rehearse with a friend or family member to boost your confidence.
4. Stay Professional
Remember to dress appropriately for interviews, even if it’s a casual role. First impressions matter!
Know Your Legal Rights and Safety
At 16, UK law provides specific protections for young workers. Understanding these is crucial when entering the job market.
Work Hours
- During school term time, you can work a maximum of 12 hours per week.
- During school holidays, you can work up to 35 hours per week.
- You cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m.
Minimum Wage
The minimum wage for 16-year-olds is £5.28 per hour (as of April 2023).
Job Restrictions
Some jobs are legally prohibited for under-18s, including those involving heavy machinery, hazardous industries, or serving alcohol unsupervised.
Health and Safety
Every employer must provide a safe work environment. If anything feels unsafe, speak up or report concerns to your supervisor or school. Your safety should always come first.
How to Use Your First Job for Future Career Growth
Starting work at 16 isn’t just a great learning experience—it’s also a stepping stone for bigger opportunities. Here’s how you can maximize the benefits of your first job.
1. Learn Transferable Skills
Customer service, time management, problem-solving—these skills will stay with you for life.
2. Build a Professional Network
Your employer, colleagues, and even customers can become valuable references for future roles.
3. Explore Career Interests
Use part-time roles to discover what you enjoy (or don’t enjoy). This will help guide your educational and career choices.
4. Save and Spend Wisely
Your first job is a great chance to build savings habits. You could start setting aside money for future goals, like travel or university.
Make Your Job Search Count
Starting your first job at 16 can be one of the most rewarding steps you’ll take toward personal and professional growth. You’ll gain independence, grow your confidence, and set yourself up for future success.
Remember, the right job is out there—it’s just about knowing where to look and how to prepare. If you’re a parent or career counselor, support the teens in your life by encouraging them to explore their options and providing guidance along the way.
The UK job market is brimming with possibilities for 16-year-olds. Go ahead, start browsing those job boards or crafting your CV today. Your future awaits!
FAQs About Jobs for 16-Year-Olds in the UK
1. What types of jobs can I get at 16 in the UK?
You can work in roles such as retail assistant, server or barista in hospitality, babysitting, pet sitting, office internships, newspaper delivery, or even creative freelancing like graphic design or social media management.
2. How do I find a job as a 16-year-old?
Start by checking online job boards like Indeed or StudentJob, visiting local businesses to drop off your CV, networking with friends and family, and looking at school job boards or career hubs.
3. What are the legal working hours for 16-year-olds in the UK?
- During school term time, you can work up to 12 hours per week.
- During school holidays, you can work up to 35 hours per week.
- You cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m.
