1 Overview
Children in West Sussex are not allowed to work:
- if they are under 13 years old
- in places such as factories or industrial sites, unless it is part of work experience
- in any way that is harmful to their health, wellbeing or education
All children working in West Sussex must have a permit issued by the education department at West Sussex County Council (WSCC).
The person employing the child must apply for a work permit within 7 days of employing the child.
There is a fine of up to £1,000 for employing a child without a permit.
If you have any queries about regulations for employing children, you can contact the Children in Entertainment and Employment (CIEE) team for help and advice.
2 When a permit is necessary
Some examples of the part time jobs that children can do are:
- agricultural or horticultural work
- newspaper delivery round
- working in a hairdressing salon
- office work
- working at a riding stables
- domestic work in hotels and other buildings offering accommodation
- café work such as waiting tables
All of these jobs require a permit.
Babysitting for friends and neighbours is not classed as employment and therefore does not require a permit.
You must have a permit for any child in employment until their official school leaving date, which is the last Friday of June in their academic year 11. This applies whether they have received their National Insurance number or not.
3 When children can work
There are regulations about working times for children. Children cannot work:
- during school hours
- before 7am or after 7pm
- for more than an hour before school
- for more than 4 hours without taking a break of at least an hour
- without having a 2 week break from work during the school holidays in each calendar year
Term time rules
During term time, children can only work for a maximum of 12 hours per week. This includes a maximum of:
- 2 hours on school days or Sundays
- 5 hours on Saturdays for 14 year olds, or 8 hours for 15 to 16 year olds
School holiday rules
There are different rules for different ages.
14 year olds
During school holidays, 14 year olds can only work for a maximum of 25 hours per week. This includes a maximum of:
- 5 hours on weekdays and Saturdays
- 2 hours on Sundays
15 and 16 year olds
During school holidays 15 and 16 year olds can only work for a maximum of 35 hours per week. This includes a maximum of:
- 8 hours on weekdays and Saturdays
- 2 hours on Sundays
4 Apply for a work permit
Complete our online application form to apply for a work permit.
Child employment online application form (external link)