Apply for a child employment permit

Part-time work can help children gain valuable experience and develop key skills. However, their education must remain the priority, and employment should not have a negative impact on learning, wellbeing or development.

Guidance for schools

Schools play an important role in supporting children who wish to work part-time. Your views are considered by us when deciding whether to issue an employment permit.

When requested by the child’s parent or carer, you must complete the school information form and confirm whether you have any objections to the proposed employment. You should consider:

  • Attendance and punctuality
  • Ability to manage schoolwork alongside employment
  • Any safeguarding or welfare concerns

The school’s role and responsibilities

Verify the application and monitor performance

You should:

  • Confirm the child is enrolled and attending school
  • Check that details on the application are correct
  • Monitor attendance, punctuality and attainment
  • Be alert to signs that employment is affecting a child’s learning or wellbeing, such as tiredness, lateness or reduced engagement
  • Identify any safeguarding concerns linked to the employment. You can report concerns using our online contact form

When schools may object

  • If employment will impact on school attendance or performance
  • If working hours are excessive or inappropriate 
  • If there are safeguarding or welfare concerns