Employing Young Workers

25th June 2025

Thinking of employing young workers over the summer? Here’s what you need to know…

In the UK, a young person is defined as anyone under the age of 18. This would include employees on an apprenticeship, or someone you employ for work experience.

Legally, children under the age of 13 are prohibited from working. Children between the ages of 13-16 can only work part time, are not covered by minimum wage rules and do not pay National Insurance. As a result of this, provided their total income does not exceed their personal allowance, they do not need to appear on the payroll.

Minimum Wage

The minimum wage applies for children aged 16-17, currently £7.55 per hour and, if they earn more than £125 they must appear on the payroll.

14 Year-Olds

14 year-olds are allowed to work a maximum of 25 hours per week during school holidays, based on a maximum working day of 5 hours Monday to Saturday and 2 hours on a Sunday

15–16 Year-Olds

15–16 year-olds can work a maximum of 35 hours per week during school holidays based on a maximum working day of 8 hours Monday to Saturday and 2 hours on a Sunday.

17 Year-Olds

17–year-olds must not work more than 8 hours per day (40 hours per week), with a break of at least 12 hours between working days and 48 hours of rest per working week

Did You Know?

It is illegal to employ children in any work that may be detrimental to their health, well-being or education. In addition to this, local council regulations differ across the country with some local councils requiring businesses to apply for a child employment permit. Any business looking at hiring a child aged 13-16 would be advised to check the rules their local council has in place.