Properly structured and regulated part-time work can help children's development and preparation for working life, as long as it does not have an adverse impact on their education.

The youngest age that a child can work is 13 years old.  Children may not work:

• for more than one hour before school.
• during school hours.
• before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m.
• for more than 4 hours without taking a break of at least one hour.
• without an employment permit issued by the Local Authority.
• in any industrial setting e.g. building site, factory etc.
• in any occupation prohibited by local byelaws or other legislation e.g. pubs, betting shops or in any work that may be harmful to their health, well-being or education.

Children may work for:

• a maximum of two hours on schooldays.
• a maximum of two hours on Sundays.
• a maximum of five hours (13 to 14 year olds) or eight hours (15 to 16 year olds) on Saturdays.

During school holidays they may work for up to five hours (13 to 14 year olds) or eight hours (15 to 16 year olds) on weekdays subject to a maximum weekly of 25 hours (13 to 14 year olds) or 35 hours (15 to 16 year olds).

The national minimum wage only applies to people aged 18 years or over.  Employers who contravene the rules face fines of up to £1,000.