15 Best Jobs for 16-Year-Olds in the UK (Plus: How to Kickstart Your Fitness Career Early)
Looking to start earning at 16? Whether you're after extra cash, experience, or stepping into your dream career—there are plenty of great jobs for 16-year-olds in the UK right now.
At ICEPs, we not only help you explore exciting roles, but also offer a powerful way to kickstart a career in fitness through our Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (Blended Learning). Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Can 16-Year-Olds Work in the UK?
Yes, absolutely. At 16, you're legally allowed to work in the UK with some important rules in place to protect your education and wellbeing.
Working Hours for 16-Year-Olds
During Term Time:
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Max 12 hours per week
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Up to 2 hours on school days and Sundays
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8 hours on Saturdays
During Holidays:
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Max 35 hours per week
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8 hours per weekday and Saturdays
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2 hours on Sundays
Breaks & Rest:
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30-minute break after 4.5 hours of work
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12 hours rest between workdays
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2 full days off per week
Jobs You Can Do at 16
You can work in gyms, shops, cafés, or take on roles such as:
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Babysitting
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Tutoring
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Delivery assistance
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Sports centre or gym roles
However, you can’t serve alcohol or operate heavy machinery until you’re 18.
How to Find a Job at 16 in the UK
Best Job Websites for Teens:
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Indeed
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StudentJob
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E4S (Employment 4 Students)
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Active Careers
Ask Local Businesses
Walk into your local café, shop, or gym with a printed CV. Even if they aren’t hiring, you’ll leave a positive impression.
What to Include in a Teen CV
Don’t worry if you haven’t had a job yet—include:
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School achievements
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Extracurriculars
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Volunteering
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Informal work (like babysitting or tutoring)
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Personal statement and references
15 Best Jobs for 16-Year-Olds in the UK
1. Retail Assistant (£23,000)
Perfect for improving communication and teamwork in a fast-paced setting.
2. Barista (£20,000)
Builds multitasking and customer service skills—great for social teens.
3. Personal Trainer
✅ Yes, you can become a qualified personal trainer from age 16!
Start your career with ICEPs’ Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training.
4. Babysitter (£25,000)
Flexible hours and great for building responsibility.
5. Sports Centre Assistant (£20,000)
Hands-on, active work in gyms or pools.
6. Kitchen Assistant (£19,000)
Learn the ropes of food hygiene and teamwork in fast-paced kitchens.
7. Lifeguard (£19,000)
Seasonal role—requires training, but builds confidence and responsibility.
8. Tutor (£32,000)
Teach younger students and sharpen your own knowledge.
9. Delivery Assistant (£21,000)
Walk or cycle locally—independent and flexible.
10. Yoga Assistant
Calm and wellness-focused. Ideal for those exploring fitness careers.
11. Gardening (£22,000)
Hands-on, outdoors, and flexible.
12. Ice Cream Server (£20,000)
Fun and social—ideal for summer holidays.
13. Social Media Assistant (£22,000)
Help brands grow online. Ideal for creative teens.
14. Theme Park Worker (£20,000)
Seasonal, high-energy and fun.
15. Online Gigs (Varies)
Surveys, freelance design, or writing—work from home on your schedule.
Tips for Getting Hired at 16
What to Wear to an Interview
Neat, clean smart-casual is key. A polo shirt or blouse with trousers works well.
How to Talk About Your Skills
Instead of saying:
“I’ve never worked.”
Say:
“At school, I help in group projects and sports teams—building leadership and teamwork skills.”
Build Experience (Even Unpaid)
Volunteering or shadowing in a gym or café is a brilliant way to gain experience early and build your confidence.
Start Your Fitness Career at 16 with ICEPs
If you love staying active, why not turn that passion into a future career?
With the ICEPs Level 3 Diploma Practitioner in Personal Training (Blended Learning), you can become a qualified personal trainer from the age of 16.
Why Choose ICEPs?
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✅ Study online with full tutor support
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✅ Attend practical workshops in major UK cities
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✅ CIMSPA-endorsed and Ofqual-regulated
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✅ Internationally recognised (EREPS + AUSactive approved)
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✅ Flexible & accessible—learn at your pace
Whether you're still in school or looking to fast-track your fitness future, this course gives you the tools to succeed.
👉 Explore the course now and become a personal trainer from just £1,199.
FAQ: Become a Personal Trainer at 16
Can I become a personal trainer at 16 in the UK?
Yes! With ICEPs, you can enrol at 16 and gain a Level 3 personal training qualification.
How long does the course take?
You can qualify in as little as 12 weeks, with online study and in-person practical days.
Is the course recognised?
Yes, it’s endorsed by CIMSPA and regulated by Ofqual—making it trusted by UK and international employers.
Final Thoughts
Starting work at 16 is more than just earning pocket money—it’s about building real-world skills, boosting your confidence, and shaping your future.
If you’re ready to turn your love for fitness into a lifelong career, don’t wait—start your journey today with ICEPs.