Can I pay my fifteen-year-old to work with me during the school holidays?

The summer holidays are almost here and, for many parents, that means juggling childcare, activities and the cost of keeping teenagers entertained.

If you have an older child at home, the school holidays can be an ideal opportunity to introduce them to the world of work. Even a few weeks of paid work can help young people build confidence, develop workplace skills and gain valuable experience that will benefit them long after they leave school.

As a business owner, you may already have suitable work available. Today's teenagers are digitally savvy and could help with tasks such as research, social media content, filing, data entry, stock organisation or other administrative duties.

But before they start, it's important to understand the rules around employing children.

Can I employ my own child or another family member?

Yes.

There is nothing to stop you employing a family member, provided:

• they are carrying out genuine work for the business
• you pay a reasonable rate for the work undertaken
• the arrangement is commercial rather than simply a way of moving income around the family.

Keeping accurate records of hours worked and duties carried out will help demonstrate that the employment is genuine should HMRC ever ask.

What is the minimum age a child can work?

Across the UK, children generally cannot work until they are 14 years old.

However, some local authorities allow children aged 13 to carry out certain types of light work under local byelaws. The rules vary depending on where your business is based, so it's always worth checking with your local council before employing anyone under 16.

How many hours can a fifteen-year-old work during the school holidays?

For children aged 15 to 16 who are still of compulsory school age, the maximum during school holidays is:

• up to 35 hours per week
• up to 8 hours per day Monday to Saturday
• up to 2 hours on Sundays
• no work before 7am or after 7pm
• a minimum one-hour break after four consecutive hours of work.

Children must also have at least two consecutive weeks each year during the school holidays when they do no work at all.

How much do I need to pay?

If the child is still of compulsory school age, there is no legal minimum wage, although paying a fair rate is good practice.

Once a young person reaches school leaving age, they become entitled to the National Minimum Wage.

From 1 April 2026, the minimum hourly rates are:

• 16-17 year olds: £8.00 per hour
• 18-20 year olds: £10.85 per hour
• 21 and over: £12.71 per hour (National Living Wage)

Do I need to put them on payroll?

Children under 16 do not pay National Insurance.

However, if they earn more than their Personal Allowance or you need to operate PAYE, they should be included on your payroll in the normal way.

Once a worker reaches 16, PAYE reporting rules may apply depending on how much they earn, so it's worth checking with your accountant if you're unsure.

Should I issue a contract?

Yes.

Even if you're employing your own child, it's sensible to provide written details of:

• their role and responsibilities
• hours of work
• rate of pay
• holiday arrangements
• who they report to.

Keeping everything documented protects both your business and the employee.

Do I need a child employment permit?

Possibly.

Many local authorities require employers to obtain a child employment permit before employing anyone of compulsory school age. Requirements differ across the UK, so always check with your local council.

You'll also need to ensure you've carried out an appropriate risk assessment and that the work is suitable for a young person.

Key facts

• You can employ your own child if they are carrying out genuine work for the business.
• Most children can only start work from age 14, although some councils allow certain jobs from 13.
• A 15-year-old can work up to 35 hours per week during the school holidays.
• Children below compulsory school leaving age are not entitled to the National Minimum Wage.
• From April 2026, the National Minimum Wage for 16-17 year olds is £8.00 per hour.
• Check whether your local authority requires a child employment permit before work begins.

Helping to develop future talent

Offering a young person their first job is about far more than earning pocket money.

Working in a real business helps teenagers develop communication skills, confidence, time management and responsibility, while giving them valuable experience to include on future college, apprenticeship or job applications.

For business owners, it's also an excellent opportunity to introduce the next generation to your industry while receiving genuine support during your busiest periods.

If you're considering employing a family member or have questions about payroll, tax or employment rules, we'd be happy to help. Contact Blue Rocket Accounting on 01322 555 442 or email happytohelp@bluerocketaccounting.com.