Cafe gives schoolchildren chance to work and thrive in summer holidays
“It’s important to give schoolchildren job opportunities. It helps build their confidence and gives them a proper taste of the workplace.”
That is the view of James Ellina, owner of Andy’s Café in Wallasey and an advocate for employing teenagers and giving them a chance to develop.
With the school holidays starting, children across Wirral may be looking to earn some extra money, while businesses may need additional staff to meet increased demand.
Children can work part-time from the age of 13 but there are rules employers must adhere to. For instance, a permit must be applied for and there are regulations in terms of the types of jobs teenagers can do, the hours they can work and safeguarding measures to follow.
James has followed all the necessary rules since last October, allowing him to employ a young person at Andy’s Café.
I wanted to give him an opportunity because he’s had a bit of a difficult start in life.
I told him to turn up for work on the Monday morning and there he was. We filled out all of the paperwork along the way and it was well worth it because he’s thriving. As soon as I met him, I wanted him to come and work for me.
During the school holidays, children aged 15-16 can work up to 35 hours per week, while those aged 13-14 can work up to 25 hours per week. They can work between 7am and 7pm between Monday-Saturday and must be given a one-hour break after working four hours.
James’ employee will be spending plenty of time at Andy’s Café during the school holidays, carrying out his tasks with an “infectious attitude”. They include waiting on tables and general duties, although preparing or cooking food is not permitted.
When he’s off school, he’s working as much as he is allowed to and loves it.
He is a great worker and comes in everyday buzzing, saying we are going to smash the day. It’s an infectious attitude that rubs off on the other staff and customers.
He’d never worked in a café or food environment before, so had plenty to learn. He speaks to the customers and is fantastic with people – it comes naturally to him.
When he works, he’ll do a variety of jobs and whatever he can. There are a few things he can’t do because of the rules we have to adhere to, but he always wants to have a go with what he can.
So why is James such a strong supporter of employing schoolchildren and offering work experience opportunities?
He believes it is important to give young people chances early in life, helping them develop skills and confidence that will benefit them in adulthood. James is encouraging other businesses in Wirral to do the same.
I always wanted to take on schoolchildren, especially ones who I can see a bit of myself in and can give some guidance to. At 15 or 16, they are reaching an important stage of their lives and I’d eventually like to develop an apprenticeship programme.
It’s hard for kids to get an opportunity these days. They need to learn life lessons that will help when they eventually leave home. Coming to work means they are learning things they will keep forever and gives them something positive to focus on.
It helps build their confidence and gives them a proper taste of the workplace. I’d like to see more local businesses doing it.
A good worker is someone who shows initiative. If you have that, you’ll go a long way. I’m all for the next generation getting chances.
For all the information around permits for children and young people in employment, visit the Wirral Council website.
