Work

University can be expensive and you might find that you need to work part-time alongside your studies to make sure you have enough money to live on and to enjoy yourself.

Deciding when to work

Some students choose to work during the holidays so that they don’t have to work during term-time, but some prefer to work during the term – it’s whatever suits you best.

Depending on your timetable, you might find that you have availability to work short shifts, or you might find that you’re restricted to weekend working.

It is generally recommended that you don’t work more than 16 hours per week during term-time so that this doesn’t impact on your education. However, individual circumstances vary.

Job options for students

Transferring existing jobs

If you’re currently working for a national company, then you might find that you can transfer your role to another site closer to your university. You might then also be able to transfer back if you go home during the holidays.

Student-friendly employment

Towns and cities that have universities are often well geared towards employing students—so they’re used to fitting around your education schedule and recognise that you might go home for extended periods of time.

On-campus jobs

Universities themselves often have jobs in things such as campus shops and bars

Universities may hire students as ambassadors to guide visitors during open days or manage school group visits. These roles offer flexible, limited hours.

Employment rights

The Equality Act is in place in the UK to prevent workers from being treated unfairly by their employers due to their:

• Gender reassignment
• Marriage or civil partnership
• Religion or belief
• Sexual orientation

Employment Rights are the statutory rights you have from day one of employment, these rights include:

• Statutory sick pay
• Paid annual leave
• Adoption leave
• Equal pay
• Weekly and daily rest periods
• Employees who work more than six hours a day must have at least one 20-minute rest break (only over the age of 18)
• The right to 11 hours breaks between shifts
• The right to an uninterrupted 24 hours without works each week or an uninterrupted 48 hours without works each fortnight.
• Under the age of 18 workers are entitled to a 30-minute break if they work more than 4.5 hours, rest period of 12 hours between shifts and a weekly rest period of 48 hours.

You should be paid the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage (depending on your age). The rates change regularly. For the latest information, visit Government website.