Term time/school holiday rules
During term time children can only work a maximum of 12 hours a week. This includes:
- a maximum of 2 hours on school days and Sundays
- a maximum of 5 hours on Saturdays for 13 to 14-year-olds, or 8 hours for 15 to 16-year-olds
During school holidays 13 to 14-year-olds are only allowed to work a maximum of 25 hours a week. This includes:
- a maximum of 5 hours on weekdays and Saturdays
- a maximum of 2 hours on Sunday
During school holidays 15 to 16-year-olds can only work a maximum of 35 hours a week. This includes:
- a maximum of 8 hours on weekdays and Saturdays
- a maximum of 2 hours on Sunday
Time and hours permitted for child employment
| Term-time | Age | Monday to Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Maximum hours per week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7am to 7pm | 13 and 14 | 2 hours | 5 hours | 2 hours | 12 hours |
| 7am to 7pm | 15 and 16 | 2 hours | 8 hours | 2 hours | 12 hours |
| School holidays | Age | Monday to Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Maximum hours per week |
| 7am to 7pm | 13 and 14 | 5 hours | 5 hours | 2 hours | 25 hours |
| 7am to 7pm | 15 and 16 | 8 hours | 8 hours | 2 hours | 35 hours |
Contact us
If you have any questions relating to a child or young person who is involved in employment or entertainment, contact our Child Employment Team:
Telephone: 0333 013 8967