For university students in the UK, balancing studies with part-time work can be a challenge. However, finding flexible and rewarding jobs in education and childcare is an excellent way to gain valuable experience, build transferable skills, and earn money. Here are some part-time jobs in education and childcare that are ideal for university students:
1. Private Tutor
One of the most popular part-time jobs for students, private tutoring offers flexibility and the chance to help others learn. Whether it’s tutoring in a specific subject like maths, science, or English, or helping younger students prepare for exams like GCSEs or A-levels, tutoring can be both financially rewarding and fulfilling.
- Pay: up to £30 per hour, depending on experience and subject.
- Flexibility: High, as tutoring can often be done online or in-person at hours that suit your schedule.
- Where to Find Jobs: Websites like Tutorful, MyTutor, or Superprof offer tutoring opportunities.
2. Teaching Assistant (TA)
Many schools, colleges, and universities hire part-time teaching assistants to support teachers in classrooms or lecture halls. As a TA, you’ll help with classroom management, assist students with learning, and may even help mark assignments. It’s a fantastic way to gain experience in education while keeping a foot in the academic world.
- Pay: usually up to £15 per hour.
- Flexibility: Moderate, as this role is usually tied to the school term and specific class times.
- Where to Find Jobs: Check local schools, colleges, and university job boards.
3. After-School Club Assistant
After-school programs often look for part-time staff to help run activities, supervise children, and provide homework help. This role is great for those who enjoy working with kids in a relaxed, informal setting.
- Pay: around £12 per hour.
- Flexibility: Moderate, as hours typically range from 3 PM to 6 PM, ideal for students with morning classes.
- Where to Find Jobs: Local schools, community centres, or organisations.
4. Babysitter or Nanny
If you have experience caring for children, becoming a babysitter or part-time nanny can be a flexible option for university students. Babysitting jobs are often required in the evenings or weekends, leaving plenty of time to focus on studies.
- Pay: usually up to £15 per hour.
- Flexibility: High, as you can arrange hours directly with families.
- Where to Find Jobs: Websites like Care.com, or local Facebook groups.
5. Nursery Assistant
Nurseries often require part-time assistants to help care for young children. This involves supervising play, preparing snacks, and supporting early childhood learning activities. If you’re studying early childhood education, this could be a perfect hands-on experience.
- Pay: £10 - £12 per hour.
- Flexibility: Moderate, usually daytime hours, but often shifts can be tailored around university schedules.
- Where to Find Jobs: Local nurseries, childcare centres, or agencies like Tinies or Bright Horizons.
6. Camp Counsellor or Summer School Assistant
During school holidays, many organisations run camps or summer schools that hire part-time staff to lead activities, teach specific skills, or supervise children. This can be a great short-term option for students who are available during the holidays.
- Pay: £300 - £500 per week, depending on the camp or school.
- Flexibility: Seasonal, but you can often work full-time during holiday periods.
- Where to Find Jobs: Look for positions through organisations like Kingswood, Camp Beaumont, or PGL.
7. Library Assistant
Many university libraries hire part-time assistants to help with shelving books, managing resources, and assisting fellow students with research. It’s a quiet environment that can complement your academic schedule.
- Pay: £12 - £15 per hour.
- Flexibility: High, as university libraries often offer shifts during evenings and weekends.
- Where to Find Jobs: University job boards or campus libraries.
8. Online English Tutor
With the growing demand for English language learning worldwide, online tutoring companies offer students part-time jobs teaching English to international students. Platforms like iTalki or VIPKid enable you to teach English to non-native speakers from the comfort of your home, offering flexible hours that fit around your studies.
- Pay: £10 - £20 per hour.
- Flexibility: Very high, as you can choose your teaching hours.
- Where to Find Jobs: Online teaching platforms such as iTalki, Preply, and VIPKid.
Whether you’re looking for flexibility, a chance to gain experience in education, or just a way to earn some extra cash, part-time jobs in education and childcare offer university students in the UK a wide range of options. These roles not only provide financial benefits but also offer the chance to develop skills that will be valuable in any future career. 