Work experience is a brilliant way for teenagers to explore interests, build confidence and develop essential life skills. Here's how to make the most of it.
When Can Teenagers Start Working?
In the UK:
- Age 13: Can do light work (paper rounds, helping in family business)
- Age 14-15: School-arranged work experience placements
- Age 16+: Can work part-time (with restrictions during term time)
Local authorities set specific bylaws, so check your council's rules.
Types of Work Experience
Formal School Placements
Most schools arrange a 1-2 week placement in Year 10 or 11. This is organised through the school but students often need to find their own placement.
Voluntary Work
Volunteering is excellent experience and demonstrates initiative. Consider:
- Charity shops
- Community centres
- Animal shelters
- Sports coaching (our holiday camps take work experience students!)
- Hospital or care home visiting
Saturday/Holiday Jobs
Part-time work teaches responsibility, time management and customer service. Popular options:
- Retail (shops, supermarkets)
- Hospitality (cafés, restaurants)
- Coaching and activity leadership
- Tutoring younger children
How to Find Placements
- Start with interests — What does your teen enjoy? What career might they explore?
- Use personal networks — Ask family friends, neighbours, local businesses
- Write a CV — Even with no experience, they can list skills, hobbies and achievements
- Practise the approach — Help them draft an email or practise a phone call
- Follow up — If they don't hear back, a polite follow-up shows initiative
Making the Most of It
Before the placement:
- Research the company/organisation
- Plan the journey and outfit
- Prepare questions to ask
During the placement:
- Arrive on time (ideally early)
- Be enthusiastic and willing to help
- Ask questions and show interest
- Stay off their phone
After the placement:
- Write a thank-you email
- Reflect on what they learned
- Update their CV
- Ask for a reference if appropriate
Why It Matters
Work experience helps teenagers:
- Discover what they enjoy (and what they don't!)
- Build confidence in adult environments
- Develop communication and teamwork skills
- Strengthen university and apprenticeship applications
- Understand the world of work
At Schools Out Activities, we regularly welcome work experience students who want to explore careers in childcare, sports coaching, education and events management. Get in touch if your teen is interested!