By Mako and Beth –  your MYP and Deputy MYP

As young people we understand how difficult it is to get a job when you’re under 16. Having a job allows you to earn some money and gives you a sense of independence. We have gathered some examples of under 16s who work, to give you some ideas of how you can find yourself a job.  Don’t forget to check out the legalities of working.

Beth, 15

Where do you work?  I work at ‘Mr Simms olde sweet shoppe’ in Reading town centre.

How did you get the job?  They were advertising for staff in the shop window so I sent in my CV and cover letter. They called me and arranged an interview. 

How much do you earn?  I earn £4 an hour, which isn’t amazing but it’s still something. I work around 8 hours a week for the moment.

What skills have you learnt?  I have learnt good customer skills, and can now use a till and card machine.

Olly, 16

Where do you work?   Hare Hatch Sheeplands

How did you get the job? I was 12/13 when I got the job through a friend of my dads

How much do you earn?  £4.50 an hour

What skills have you learnt?  Social Skills- talking to people

Karina, 16

Where do you work?  Swimaway- Leighton park, as an assistant teacher

How did you get the job?  I got the job when I was 12/13 as my mum is a teacher there, I was her assistant but recently took a swimming teachers course and now teach my own classes

How much do you earn?  £9 an hour, for about 3 and a half hours a week

What skills have you learnt?  Communication, gaining trust, working with children

Beth, 15

 Where do you work?  At the ‘Flower Pot hotel’ in Henley, as a waitress.

How did you get the job?  My friend is the granddaughter of the owner of the pub and she offered the job to me.

 How much do you earn?  I earn £20 a shift and usually work for around 3-4 hours on Saturday and Sunday, so £40 a weekend

 What skills have you learnt?  I learnt how to deliver hot plates to the customer with good customer skills. I learnt to just take orders even if sometimes I didn’t agree.

We’d love to hear your comments about finding jobs and working…

 

 If you are under 16, or are 16 and not finished Year 11 you require a Child Employment Licence to enable you to work.  Check out Wokingham Council’s information page for an application form.  If you have any queries, please contact Zadie Broad, the Child Employment Officer on 0118 974 6206 or zadie.broad@wokingham.gov.uk