Part-time and Vacation Work
Balancing academics and part-time work can be challenging but also rewarding. Securing part-time work during your studies can be a great way to enhance your university experience.
This brief guide is designed to help you find suitable part-time or vacation employment and manage your time effectively.
Why Consider Part-Time Work?
- Financial Support: Earn extra income to cover your living expenses
- Skill Development: Gain transferable skills like time management, communication, and teamwork.
- Networking Opportunities: Build connections that could lead to future career opportunities.
- Enhanced CV: Demonstrate initiative and work experience to future employers.
Types of Part-Time Jobs Available
- On-Campus Roles: Student ambassador, Student’s Union opportunities.
- Hospitality: Barista, restaurant/cafes, bartender, catering assistants and bars.
- Retail: Sales assistant roles in Plymouth or other local shops.
- Tutoring: Peer tutoring or online tutoring platforms.
- Other: Delivery driver, freelance work, pet sitting, babysitting.
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs
Considerations for International Students
- Work Hours: Check your visa conditions. Some international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. It’s crucial that you don’t contravene your visa conditions, as this could affect your visa status.
- National Insurance Number: Apply for a National Insurance (NI) number to work legally in the UK.
- Income Tax: Understand your income tax obligations on the government website.
You can get more information about working and an international student from UKCISA.
Tips for Balancing Work and Study
- Time Management: Use planners or digital calendars to organise study and work shifts.
- Prioritise Academics: Ensure work hours do not interfere with lectures, assignments, or exams. If in doubt, check with your school/department to see if they have suggested maximum working hours.
- Prioritise roles that complement your academic goals and personal well-being.
- Set Limits: Be realistic about how many hours you can work without affecting your well-being.
- Communicate: Keep open communication with employers about your academic commitments.
Services at the University
- University Careers Team - https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/services/careers
- Wellbeing Services. - https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/services/student-wellbeing
Employment Rights
Students have the right to be paid fairly, to have the same benefits as other workers and to be protected from discrimination.
You should:
- Have an employment contract with your employer – although this doesn’t have to be written down. However, you must have a written summary of key terms and conditions.
- Be paid at least the minimum wage.
- Be given a tax code to ensure you are paying the correct amount of tax
- Have access to the same benefits as other workers, including holidays, pension contributions and training.
- Not be discriminated against.
- Be entitled to correct notice if your employment is terminated.
More Information
Acas: Advice on employment law
Citizens Advice: Information on work-related issues
Contact advice@su.plymouth.ac.uk for more information about working as a student.