Best Jobs for Teenagers 16+ in the UK
Turning 16 is a big milestone — and not just because of birthdays and sweet sixteens. Once you reach this age, your job options in the UK open up in a big way. You can legally work longer hours, take on more responsibility, and many employers are keen to hire 16-year-olds, especially once GCSEs are over. Whether you’re looking to earn some extra cash, save up for driving lessons, or gain valuable experience for your CV, there are plenty of opportunities out there.
Popular Jobs for 16-Year-Olds
Here are some of the most common jobs available to teenagers aged 16 and above:
1. Retail Jobs
Supermarkets, fashion outlets, and local shops often hire young people to work on tills, stock shelves, or help with customer service.
2. Hospitality Roles
Restaurants, cafés, and fast-food outlets regularly employ 16-year-olds. You might find yourself waiting tables, preparing food, or working as a barista.
3. Lifeguard
With your National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ), you can work at swimming pools or leisure centres. If you train as a swimming teacher too, you can earn even more.
4. Cinema and Entertainment Work
Cinemas often hire teenagers to sell tickets, serve snacks, and help customers find their seats. Bowling alleys, arcades, and theme parks may also have roles available.
5. Catering Assistant
Catering jobs involve helping with food preparation, cleaning, and keeping kitchens running smoothly.
Apprenticeships: Earn While You Learn
At 16, you can also apply for apprenticeships. These let you earn money while gaining qualifications and workplace experience. If you’re not keen on staying at school or sixth form, an apprenticeship can be the perfect alternative.
Average Pay for 16-Year-Olds
The National Minimum Wage for 16–17-year-olds (2025) is £6.40 per hour, but many employers pay more depending on the job and location. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
| Job Type | Average Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Retail (shops, supermarkets) | £6 – £9 |
| Hospitality (cafés, fast food, waiting tables) | £5.50 – £7.50 (+ tips in restaurants) |
| Lifeguard (with NPLQ) | £7 – £10 |
| Swimming Teacher (extra qualification) | £12 – £15 |
| Cinema / Entertainment | £6 – £8 |
| Catering Assistant | £6 – £8 |
| Apprenticeships (minimum) | £6.40+ (many pay more) |
Tip: Larger employers (like supermarkets, chains, or councils) often pay above the legal minimum, so it’s worth checking their websites directly.
How Many Hours Can a 16-Year-Old Work?
At 16, the rules on working hours are more flexible than for younger teens, but there are still protections in place:
- During school or college term time: If you’re still in full-time education, you can usually work up to 12 hours a week.
- School holidays: You can work up to 35–40 hours per week depending on local bylaws.
- Apprenticeships/full-time work: Around 40 hours per week, with rest breaks and holidays included.
Remember, you must stay in education or training until 18 — but that includes apprenticeships.
Where to Find Jobs for 16-Year-Olds
If you’re ready to start earning, here are some of the best places to look:
- Online job sites: Indeed, Totaljobs, Reed.
- Apprenticeships: Government Apprenticeships website.
- Supermarket websites: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Lidl, Asda.
- Hospitality & fast-food chains: McDonald’s, KFC, Costa Coffee, Starbucks.
- Local council websites: Leisure centre or summer jobs.
- Word of mouth: Ask family/friends about cafés, shops, or local businesses hiring.
Final Thoughts
At 16, the world of work opens up with exciting possibilities. Whether you want to start in retail, hospitality, or even take on the responsibility of being a lifeguard, there are plenty of ways to earn money, build experience, and prepare for your future. Apprenticeships are also a fantastic route if you’re looking to combine work with qualifications.
Whatever job you choose, the experience you gain now will be invaluable later — and the extra cash in your pocket doesn’t hurt either!
