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

• Online Job Portals: Websites like Save the Student, Indeed, StudentJob, and LinkedIn.
• Student Union website:  https://www.upsu.com/jobs/
• Local Businesses: Visit shops, cafes, and restaurants in Plymouth to ask about vacancies.
• Social Media Groups: Join local social media groups for part-time job postings.

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 as 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.