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How it works, working holiday in uk (plus).

333 others looking at this too. Next opening is Jun 2024 , with limited spots.

No wonder the UK is such a popular place for a Working Holiday. Besides the lush countryside, charming cities, and dramatic coastlines – it’s the perfect home base while exploring the rest of Europe. 

And when you go on a Working Holiday in the UK, you can live and work for up to three years in the country while you discover Europe on your own terms. 

You could wing it and try to do everything yourself. Sure, some people do, but more often than not, it’ll be confusing, expensive, anxiety-inducing and time-consuming heading to a land unknown for the first time.

This is an experience you’ll likely only do once, and the last thing you'd want is to be returning home with your tail between your legs just after you had your going away party (& blown all your savings).

But, luckily, we've been working on the solution since 2008 that close to 90,000 others before you have chosen, as the world's leaders in working holidays. What if you could instead:

• With our  Money-Back Guarantee in place, receive a  Canadian Job Match before you even arrive* – year-round & all-done virtually from home (with no job fairs to travel to & compete at, unlike our competitors).
• Land a job almost anywhere , from cozy pubs in the English countryside to centuries-old castles in the Scottish Highlands, with the largest network of partner companies loaded with perks like staff accommodation, food & beverage & more!
• Meet others before you go   through our exclusive app . Join Global Traveller side-trips & meet-up events too.
• Save time, money, and stress with your own dedicated Trip Coordinator .
• Get help with  flights, travel insurance, accommodation, visa applications  & more.

The ultimate way to have a hassle-free working holiday. Working to live (and not living to work), meeting other travellers, waking up every day to a new adventure, and making everyone back home severely jealous of all your stories.

Land in the UK prepared & excited, not anxious and scared - life’s too short for that. *For a similar trip with the essentials only, check out this Working Holiday in UK package. Keep a very careful eye on dates though, as capacity for both these trips are limited.

Tap to show less

Guaranteed job match pre-arrival*

A lot of companies don’t hire travellers, but we partner with many of the best that do. This means you will be pre-matched with an open position before you even arrive (or in your first couple days). And we're so sure of it, that we offer a money-back guarantee if you don't. (*TCs apply)

Unlimited extra matches*

When it’s time for somewhere new, tap into our national database of Partner Organisations to keep funding your travels. *No limit on matches when you’ve given required notice to leave & remained professional.

Dedicated Trip Coordinator

Working holiday visa guidance.

Get your working holiday visa approved as cheap and easy as possible with our step-by-step instructions and personal guidance by your Trip Coordinator.

Pre-Departure Guide

Our in-depth pre-departure guide will have all the information you need about your trip & destination, at your fingertips.

Personal Travel Concierge

Private airport transfer.

Don't get stuck, lost or waste money on a taxi. Start your trip off right and roll up like a VIP. When you arrive a private driver will be waiting at the airport to whisk you straight to your included accommodation in style.

3 nights of hostel accommodation

Meet other Global Travellers in the heart of London. A 4-person dorm makes it the ultimate lodging for jet-lag recovery, or treat yourself and upgrade! (4-person subject to availability)

"Welcome to the UK" virtual orientation

Our virtual orientation will get you up to date with everything you need to know about living and working in the UK. You’ll be a Brit in no time!

Local life essentials

London hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour.

The best way for you to get your bearings in London! Climb on board this hop-on, hop-off bus tour, and enjoy the freedom to jump on and off at any of the designated stops around the incredible city.

Visit to iconic London Eye

Enjoy panoramic, 360° views of the London skyline with an included pass to the iconic London Eye.

Nightclub party tour

2 nights to party at oktoberfest, barcelona or surf in san sebastian.

Choose from a 2-night stay in Barcelona including breakfast, Oktoberfest in Munich or a surf house in San Sebastian! Spend your days partying at the legendary Oktoberfest in Munich, stay in the nightlife and beach capital of Spain, or enjoy endless surf, yoga and parties at a house in San Sebastian. The only thing left to do is choose where you want to go! 

Permanent accommodation resources

If permanent accommodation isn’t provided with your job opportunity, our local team can give you the tools and advice to help you find your perfect home.

Tax return assistance

Ongoing local team support, global emergency line.

Feel confident knowing we have a worldwide emergency team on standby, 24 hours a day, Monday to Friday. 

gWorld access

Travel alone but never lonely with Social! An exclusive social network inside our gWorld app to talk, share & meet-up with other Global Travellers in your region, with a dedicated Community Manager.

Global Academy

Gain access to an ever-growing range of skills & languages to learn before & whilst you travel.

Invites to Global Getaways

Be invited to exclusive customer only bucket-list side trips, so you can meet new friends and see more of the world while abroad.

Marketplace deals

$250 off your next trip.

Tap to expand

Just in case it’s not clear already, we’re not an employment or recruitment agency. Read more

To qualify for this trip you must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 18 - 35 years of age
• Be a citizen of an eligible country
• Have no criminal convictions in the past 5 years

Ask a question

Chat with us online now, or we can call you back for free, 24 hours Mon-Fri.

Can you picture it? You're working at a beautiful old English pub without a worry in the world. The pub hooked you and your new international besties up with accommodation just down the road. You're pouring pints for the locals who all love the bartender. Especially when you’re from overseas with a cool accent and stories from home. It’s a special day. You and your housemate just booked return flights over to Amsterdam for the price of some new sneakers. 

And all this sorted without potentially spending over a month or longer hunting for a job in a foreign country with no income and your savings dwindling by the hour!

Get a job sorted before you land with our Guaranteed Job Match Pre-Arrival*, the ultimate way to explore another country without having to chew through your savings like most people who decide to wing it generally do.

Our robust trip planning process, perfected after serving tens of thousands of Global Travellers since 2008, includes visa guidance and a virtual interview you can do from the comfort of home. Our team will be in your corner to answer any questions you or your family may have too, so you can exchange most of those nerves with pure excitement about the adventure of a lifetime ahead.

Accommodation? We can help with that as well. Your first 3 nights are covered at a top-rated hostel in the heart of London. After that, most jobs provide staff housing at a really low rate (but these ones can go quick). If your job doesn’t, our team will provide you all the guidance and tips you need to find something suitable - yet another reason why going with Global means you get the best of the best with access to a local team and office in London (unlike our competitors).

And when it’s time for a change of scenery during or after your initial job, book a short and cheap flight to a place packed with beach clubs, cheap baguettes, or snow-packed alps.  

While you're galavanting across Europe, you’re not worried about finding a new job or running out of money. Why?

Because you told your dedicated Trip Coordinator about your plans and that you’d like to secure your next job opportunity, in a completely new and interesting part of the UK before you left. 

Our team gets to work and the whole of the UK stretches out in front of you. Will your next job be at a cozy inn south of London? A manor in Oxford? Or at a fairytale-like Castle in the Scottish Highlands?

We’ll leave it up to you. And with the largest network of partner companies – you could land a job almost anywhere in the UK, usually loaded with staff perks.

You’ll have an instant friend group wherever you end up, too – even if you decide to take a job in a tiny town in the Welsh countryside. 

Because our social network app – gWorld – connects you with other Global Travellers in your area. So you can go on a hike, meet at the pub, or just talk to someone with the same accent as you.

We take care of pretty much everything so you don’t have to.

BUT! There’s a catch….

Most travellers book their trip 6-12 months in advance, or more! Dates are flexible, but spaces are limited, and intakes are closing off regularly without much notice. So if you’re serious about living in the UK, check dates & prices now to get things started before you’re too late, or too old.

With our Book Now, Decide Later option, you can get started with a small deposit today, and take up to a full year to choose your dates. 

We’ll take over from there, helping you with visas, flights, accommodation, and matching you with a job opportunity before you go*. 

If you’re after the ultimate, and the best, working holiday to the UK out there, complete with everything you need and worldwide support, click the red box and follow the quick & easy steps to secure your spot. You, your parents and your bank account should thank us later.

If you’re looking for less, but still want to travel with the best, check out our other  Working Holiday in UK package too (but this one is our best & most popular).

Requirements

To qualify for this trip you must meet the visa requirements , and have 6 months of paid work experience by time of arrival.

What extra costs will I have?

Flights, travel insurance, visa, criminal background check, souvenirs & spending money.

Your Working Holiday in UK (Plus) trip is designed to help you find local, seasonal employment as a means to fund your travels further, and for cultural exchange. Our goal is to save you time, money, and stress while eliminating the risk of returning home early. Here’s how we do it:

Before you leave

We’re on your side from the moment you get started. You’ll be assigned a dedicated Trip Coordinator. They’ll guide you through the next steps and answer all your questions. They’ll also help you with the pesky visa. No guesswork – only the right paperwork, approved the first time.

Your personal Travel Concierge will help with flights, insurance, and any add-ons you’d like for your trip. These are real humans too – no robots here. 

Most travellers have their job match sorted before they even leave home. This means you can focus on having fun right from the get-go since you're not having to spend weeks finding a job on your own.

Working Holiday jobs & locations in the United Kingdom

Land an entry to mid-level job in the UK which will be fun and social, so you can make friends, learn new skills and have the freedom to explore new places. Located all across the country, here’s a list of the industries most of our UK Partner Organisations are in, and where you can expect to find yourself being matched with too!

• Hospitality like bars, cafés & restaurants
• Historic UK Pubs & Bars
• Scottish Castles
• Summer Camps
• Hotels & Manors
• Labour & Construction

Important to remember:  The host company decides who they hire and for what, so you need to be flexible & open minded. You’ll be matched with something you are suitable for.

Picture yourself catching the London Underground each day and working in one of the most bustling cities in the world. Or perhaps the idea of a 16th-century castle nestled among the countryside is more your scene. We’ve got connections to host companies dotted all over the UK, so you could find yourself working in any of these destinations. 

• Hertfordshire

We'll try for your preferences, but locations are subject to availability at your time of arrival.

Christopher P Vedrana has been very helpful and has given useful information about how things operate. She has gone out of her way to make sure everything runs smoothly, has been contactable from the first moment, and been a warm person to be with during the orientation.

Dale C V has been absolutely phenomenal. Extremely helpful and understanding. Could not have asked for a better arrival coordinator and she has exceeded all my expectations not just as a travel coordinator but Global Work as a whole. Super welcoming and easy going. She has helped me fit ... Read more

Gemma M My experience so far with The Global Work and Travel company has been outstanding. Katy and Kirsty have been very helpful and have met every need or requirement I have presented them with. I am most satisfied with their level of efficiency considering the time zones before I came ... Read more

Harrison G Kirsty has been an excellent coordinator throughout my moving process. I was constantly listing emails and important information and I received fast replies with no judgment. She has made the orientation very simple and easy, explaining all perks and problems in an easy efficient ... Read more

Simon D Jaz was a fantastic trip coordinator. Any questions I had she answered diligently and if she didn't have an answer at the time she would follow up and get one for me. Additionally, if I had any objections or queries her responses were well thought out, had great reasoning, and co ... Read more

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Frequently asked questions.

As the world’s leading gap-year and "work & travel" company, we provide a premium service for Global Travellers. Choose from a variety of awesome experiences worldwide. We assist with visas, pre-departure, flights, insurance, and tours. Our cool tech features support you throughout the journey. As a Global Traveller, access gWorld, our personalized app. Keep important documents and trip details handy. Enjoy exclusive Marketplace deals, a social network, language learning, side trips, meet-ups, and more. It's like all your favorite apps merged into one, but better! Our support doesn't stop there. With a 24/5 emergency team, 90+ staff, and ongoing assistance, we ensure you feel like a local. Join the 80,000+ Global Travellers who have turned their travel dreams into reality with us. We proudly boast the most & best reviews in the biz!

While we would love to include flights and insurance in our trip packages, it is not feasible to have a fixed price due to the diverse destinations, trip durations, and individual coverage needs of our travellers from around the globe. However, once you register for the trip, we will assign you a dedicated Travel Concierge. They will work closely with you to arrange the ideal flights and insurance tailored to your specific adventure. Rest assured, our team is here to ensure you have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience from start to finish!

When it comes to accommodation, we have some great options available for you. Many of our partner organisations offer staff accommodation as a fantastic perk. This usually entails a shared apartment or house with other like-minded travelers, conveniently located near your job. The best part is that these accommodations are often available at a subsidised rate, allowing you to save more toward side trips and fun! In the event that staff accommodation is not included with your job match, don't worry. Your Arrival Coordinator will be there to provide you with valuable resources and helpful tips on finding a suitable place to stay.

The Standard and Plus Working Holiday trips offer similar features, such as our comprehensive job matching process. However, there are a couple key differences between the two: Standard: With the Standard trip, you will receive a guaranteed job match prior to your arrival*. Plus: The Plus trip includes a guaranteed job match prior to your arrival*, just like the Standard trip. In addition, it offers the unique benefit of a 2nd job match in an entirely new country! This includes any Working Holiday, Au Pair or Tutor trip we offer, except USA, Germany & South Korea. Visa guidance will also be provided, TCs apply. Along with this, the Plus trip also provides additional tours and a side trip to enhance your experience. If you like the idea of working and travelling in more than one country, the Plus option is best suited for you. It provides the opportunity for ongoing exploration and variety during your time abroad. No need to make a decision right away on which option to choose. If you initially book the Standard trip, you can always upgrade to the Plus trip after getting registered and connecting with your dedicated Trip Coordinator.

While we strive to take your preferences into account, it's important to note that we are not a recruitment agency. Therefore, we cannot guarantee job matches in specific professions, fields, or locations. As a foreign worker on a temporary visa, it can be challenging to compete with locals for more specialised positions. Employers often prioritise candidates they can train and retain in the long term, rather than taking a risk on someone who may leave in a year or two, or less. However, the jobs we help organise on your working holiday will offer a fantastic experience. They will be enjoyable and social, allowing you to make new friends, acquire new skills, and have the freedom to explore exciting new places. Our aim is to provide you with an amazing working holiday experience, where you can embrace adventure and create unforgettable memories.

A job match is a seamless process designed to help you secure a suitable job opportunity. Here's how it works: First, we arrange an interview for you, taking into consideration your preferences whenever possible. The interviews are typically conducted virtually over platforms like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime, making it convenient for you to participate from the comfort of your home before you embark on your trip. The key to a successful job match is simple: attend the interview on time and approach it just like any other professional interview. By demonstrating professionalism and enthusiasm, you'll increase your chances of securing a job offer without any complications. In the unlikely chance you are unsuccessful with your initial interview, our team will get to work organising you another interview. You can rest assured we are committed to finding the right opportunity for you and guiding you through each and every step of the job matching process to ensure success. For more details, please refer to your booking conditions.

Absolutely! While the jobs we help you land usually provide full-time hours, they often come with flexibility that will allow you to take time off for side trips, exploring, and fun. We understand the importance of travel experiences, and our aim is to provide opportunities that balance work and leisure. While the level of flexibility can vary based on the specific job and employer, we strive to match you with positions that provide allowances or arrangements for time off. This way, you can plan and enjoy additional adventures before, during, or after your work placement!

Ever since our inception in 2008, we have been dedicated to providing exceptional job opportunities to our travellers. We take pride in having built the largest network of partner organisations across the country, all vetted and perfectly suited to host a working holidayer. One of the greatest advantages of going Global is that we streamline the entire process for you, meaning, you won't need to go through the hassle of attending job fairs (like our competitors make you do) or spending countless hours job hunting. We take care of the hard work by understanding your job and location preferences, then connect you with one of our awesome partner organisations. We then ensure you are well-prepared for the interview, to help you land a job before you leave home*. To explore all the amazing options available, we invite you to check out our Working Holiday jobs & locations section located above.

The benefits of doing a Working Holiday trip are numerous. It offers you the opportunity to experience a new country, immerse yourself in a different culture, gain international work experience, develop new skills, make lifelong connections, and create unforgettable memories. It is a chance to combine travel and work while exploring a new destination.

We provide comprehensive support throughout your Working Holiday trip, from the initial planning stages until your return home. Our team is available to assist you with visa applications, job placements, accommodation options, and ongoing support from our worldwide offices while you are overseas, including a 24/5 emergency line. We also provide pre-departure guidance and resources to help you prepare for your adventure.

Absolutely! While the earning potential may vary based on your destination and job type, the income you'll receive is more than sufficient to support you comfortably while abroad. It can cover all your living expenses, accommodation, transportation, and even allows for savings to explore your new home or continue travelling afterward. Additionally, many of our partner organisations offer fantastic perks like discounted staff housing, food and beverage, ski passes, and more, helping you save money and make the most of your Working Holiday experience.

Covid-19 threw us a curve ball and pretty much halted all travel. This means that we have a backlog of travellers, just like you, who are desperate to get out and explore the world! Global Work & Travel works on a first-in-best-dressed basis. Booking earlier ensures that you don’t miss out on the best intake, season, placements and more! We recommend our travellers take 6-12 months to plan their trip for a reason - to make sure you’ve got everything organised perfectly, stress-free. As a Global Traveller you’ll get exclusive access to gWorld, our personalised app where you can keep all of your important documents and trip details in one spot and gain insider access to everything Global. This is where you will find exclusive Marketplace Deals, a unique social network to connect you with other like-minded Global Travellers, access to our Academy with an ever-growing range of skills & languages, and so much more. Think all of your favourite apps merged into one, but like, better? Why not give yourself something to look forward to by booking that trip!

Yes you can! Simply tell your Trip Coordinator after booking that your friend is also going and they can link your profiles. For most of our trips we should be able to have you and your friends placed together or nearby. Meaning that you can live, work, play & travel together! But wait there's more! Not only can you travel the world with your besties at your side, you can also earn some extra cash towards your own trip just by referring your friends to Global Work & Travel. You can learn more about the great referral rewards program inside your gWorld account once you join. And for those who decide to go-it-solo, we’ve made it easier to meet other Global Travellers in the same region as you. Just like any other social platform, you’ll be able to interact, share, chat and meet with some really cool people who are doing trips just like you!

At Global Work & Travel, we share a deep love for animals and fully understand the special bond you have with your pet. We recognise the challenges of embarking on a trip without them. Due to travel restrictions, requirements, and limited pet-friendly accommodations among our host organisations, we regretfully cannot facilitate their inclusion in the journey. However, many of our customers choose to entrust their pets to a family member or friend, embark on their adventure, and return home to wagging tails and furry cuddles.

We know that life can get in the way of travel, so all our trips come with a great deal of flexibility. In most cases, if you cannot travel on your selected date, you can place your trip on hold to deal with whatever is holding you back, and continue in the future without incurring any penalty. You may also have the option of transferring to an entirely different trip and destination as well, or even transferring your trip to a friend or family member. In the event that you need to outright cancel your trip, if you give us 84* days notice you can do so with only a 50% cancellation fee. Your refund of the balance will come in the form of a Store Credit which you can put toward any other trip that we offer, including tours through third-party providers, as well as holidays through DealsAway.com, and is valid for 2 years from date of issue. As international travel can be complex, your options are based on the progress of your trip organisation and our support team can assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.

1. Choose a trip style

Find your dream experience & destination, then secure your spot with a flexible & low deposit. Activate your gWorld to unlock some cool perks. Well done! The hardest part’s over!

2. We become friends

Book a time to meet your dedicated Trip Coordinator who knows all the ins & outs of your trip. They’ll be by your side and working behind-the-scenes to pull everything together.

3. Time to go!

We’ll get your tickets, accommodation & transfers ready. Our in-country team or partner will have everything prepared & waiting for your arrival. Get on the plane with no worries!

4. 24/5 support

Never stress, knowing we’re there with you when you need us with ongoing & unlimited local team support and check-ins. And just in case, we’ve got an emergency team on stand-by, 24/5.

Still have questions?

Why go global, flexible trips.

The unexpected can happen sometimes. Can't travel right now? Swap your trip, gift it or save it for later with our Lifetime Deposit Guarantee.

Worldwide support

Know that someone is always ready to assist throughout the journey & they’re only a call, tweet, comment, text or double tap away, 24/5.

We're the experts

With over 10 years in the industry and a team of over 90 passionate pros, you can bet we know our stuff better than anyone else.

Partner network

We have over 1,200 partners around the globe, so we have access to plenty of exclusive opportunities to make your trip the best it can be.

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Jobs in England

Working abroad in England provides individuals with a plethora of resources and opportunities at their fingertips, whether it is traveling throughout Europe on the weekends or working for one of the top companies in the world—the opportunities of jobs in England will expand horizons personally and professionally. Experiencing British culture first hand and gaining work experience in England will provide international workers with priceless skills to build their future on. If you’re looking for incredible travel and work opportunities, you should check out these opportunities for jobs in England.

With so many amazing English cities comes incredible opportunities for working in England. You can find the perfect city for you based on what kind of experience you are looking for through jobs in England.

London . When considering where to work in England, individuals from all over the world will immediately think to look for jobs in London. A melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, London serves as one of the largest job markets in the entire United Kingdom. In London, almost anyone can find the job of their dreams because the city tends to be a great place to working in England in any field.

Manchester & Liverpool . Although colder and rainer than other parts of England, both of these cities have a more urban feel when compared to other large metropolitan areas, like Bath or Cambridge. Both cities have great art scenes and trendy corners to explore while working in England.

Oxford & Cambridge . If you are pursuing a job in England in the academics or education, working in Oxford or Cambridge is ideal. As the home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, if you are considering furthering your education while working abroad, these two cities are the perfect place to settle.

Foreign workers may find themselves working in the private or public sector, and jobs in England are most definitely plentiful in both. Regardless of the job or sector of society, employees are expected to be punctual, proper, polite, and professional at all times, in both manner and appearance. Though English language skills are a basic requirement of almost any job in England, Americans and other native English speakers may find themselves still on a bit of learning curve when it comes to British English.

Creative Fields. With a long history in the arts, it is no surprise individuals flock to England for jobs in theater, literature, journalism, fashion design, and music. The number of famous poets, writers, musicians, and performers from England is outstanding, so those interested in these creative fields should be prepared for a good deal of competition.

Business. Individuals interested in working in England’s business world will find positions in nearly every field, from marketing, finance, and economics to international relations and politics.

Child Care & Teaching. Like most of Europe, au pair jobs are common in England, providing foreigners with an easy transition into the British way of life. Opportunities to work with kids outside the home through teaching are also available in England.

All jobs in the UK must pay workers sufficiently based on National Minimum Wage Legislation, which means workers over the age of 21 are paid at least between 7 and 8 Euros per hour of work. Obviously more professional or higher level positions will pay far more than this, but entry level jobs in England will usually be close to the minimum wage. If you are looking for long term jobs in England, it is important to consider your salary and the cost of living in England. The cities can get a bit pricey, but with a budget you can make it work.

In cities filled to the brim with universities, except to find a variety of housing options for a range of prices. Apartments, referred to locally as flats, are the most common housing option for young professionals. Unlike apartments and houses in the U.S., don’t expect a flat in England to be enormously spacious - in general housing in England is modest and smaller in scale.

Some employers will arrange housing for employees, and if working as an au pair housing is usually included as part of compensation. However if your new employer is not willing to assist you in finding residence, expect housing to be quite hard to find for an affordable price smack dab in the middle of London. If you’re working elsewhere in England, locating affordable housing should not be an issue, especially in cities with a large student population.

Obtaining the legal right to work in England can be quite a burdensome process. However your employer will be required to support you through it all, so be sure your employer is prepared to do so from the start. Those from the EU will find the visa process to be far less difficult. Check out the most up-to-date visa information by visiting your Embassy.

It is truly difficult to find jobs in England if you are from outside the EU unless you get your foot in the door at a local company or you are applying for a highly skilled job. Despite the challenge of finding work in England, it will be well worth it. The experience you will gain will be invaluable and will help direct your path into your future. You will not only get work experience, but you will also learn how to live and work within a new culture—and eventually you’ll be able to laugh at your British coworkers’ dry sarcastic humor.

English speakers will have little to no trouble adjusting to work in England when it comes to language, as English is of course the national language. However, international workers should be prepared for a few linguistic misunderstandings, such as when they ask for chips or biscuits at a restaurant and receive fries or cookies. If foreigners work in England for long enough they may find themselves saying they “fancy a sandwich” instead of wanting to eat one. Despite being an English speaking country, there may still be some linguistic challenges while working in England.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find out all the answers to the most commonly asked questions.

How to find a job in UK?

To find a job in the UK, you'll need to qualify for a work visa. This typically means you'll need to be hired by an employer in the UK who is also willing to sponsor you.

6 Best Work Abroad Programs in England

What are popular jobs in england.

There are many popular jobs in England for expats. Finance and marketing jobs are common, but you'll find jobs that foreigners are eligible to apply to across all sectors.

5 Brilliant Ways to Work in England This Year

Where can i work in england.

London is the easiest place for expats to find work in England, as it's a large international city full of multinational companies. You can also try other areas of England, such as Bristol and Manchester .

• 10 Best Countries to Work in the World in 2023

Is it difficult to get a UK work visa?

It can be difficult to get a UK work visa if you're not a competitive candidate or lack work experience. The easiest way to get a work visa is to outperform UK applicants in the interview process, which can be tough to accomplish.

Can I Work in England? Yes! Read These FAQs First

• How to Get a Visa to Visit Any Country in the World

Can I apply for UK work visa without a job offer?

The only work visas in the UK that you can get without a job offer are the High Potential Individual Visa, the Graduate Visa, and the Global Talent Visa. However, these visa requirements can be difficult to meet.

• How to Work Your Way Around the World Without the Visa Hassle

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Work and Travel in United Kingdom

Help us grow. share what you know about getting work in united kingdom for travellers., volunteer and paid work opportunities in united kingdom for travellers.

The United Kingdom (UK) is known for being one of the most expensive destinations in Europe. For those who want to travel in the UK, a volunteer role is one of the best ways to see the country without paying a lot for it. There are plenty of volunteer and paid work opportunities in the United Kingdom for travellers. The UK may not be part of the Schengen zone, but the majority of Western travellers will easily be able to take advantage of visas. Whilst you explore the four countries that make up the union, work in the UK and you’ll be left with memories that will last forever. Departing from the traditional travel guides for the United Kingdom, here are some of the volunteering opportunities in the UK you should look into. 1. Explore Archaeological Wonders in England and Wales The UK has a long, rich history which we’ve barely scratched the surface of. Sites around the UK are searching for archaeology students and trained professionals to give them a helping hand. Volunteer in the UK and you could be exploring old Roman sites in York or Bath. Experience levels will vary depending on the project, as will any opportunities for compensation. 2. Live in Self-Sufficient Communities A growing trend in the UK is self-sufficient communities. Communities of people from all backgrounds live together, grow their own food, and manage all repairs and household duties without outside help. They may also be in the form of housing cooperatives. Volunteer in the UK and you could join up with one of these communities. It’s an excellent chance to learn new skills and make new friends. You don’t need any experience to work and travel in the UK if you volunteer in a community like this. 3. Secure the Legacy of the UK with National Park Conservation Travel in the United Kingdom and you’ll see that much of the country is covered by national parks. National parks often run chiefly from volunteers. Volunteers from around the world are able to take part in national park conservation projects in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. No matter what skills you have as you travel in the UK, you’re surely going to find a position to suit you.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNITED KINGDOM

The United Kingdom is notorious for having one of the strictest borders in the world. Thankfully, Western visitors should have few problems volunteering in the UK. If you’re from the European Union (EU) and want to travel in the UK, you can enter without a visa. You can also do volunteering and paid work in the country without a visa until the country leaves the EU, which at the earliest will be March 2019. But what if you’re outside the UK? Travellers from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, and Korea can apply for the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme if they’re between the ages of 18 and 30. They also have to meet eligibility requirements. This allows them to take paid and unpaid work in the UK for up to two years. Many foreigners prefer to live and work in the UK long-term if they can secure this visa. It’s relatively easy to get due to reciprocal agreements the UK has with the countries involved. Furthermore, there are large communities of people on these visas in London and Manchester, so you won’t feel alone if you decide to stay here for a while. For travellers from countries like Russia, the US, and South Africa they will have to apply for a Tier 5 (Temporary Worker – Charity Worker) visa. To work and travel in the UK you must have a position with a registered organisation and have full sponsorship from them. Take note that the UK usually takes at least a month or two to process visa applications.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN UNITED KINGDOM

Spring work.

Thistle Camps is the conservation project for Scotland that manages older buildings. Volunteers in the UK are needed especially in spring to manage new plant growth and many of the repairs that result from harsh winters. There are also equivalents in the other countries of the UK.

SUMMER JOBS

Summer is festival season in the UK and volunteers from around the world are able to act as stewards at festivals like the Leeds Festival, Reading Festival, and the iconic Glastonbury. Volunteer in the UK throughout summer and you can also join up with summer camps. Helping the kids out and maintaining a fun atmosphere is your only task.

Autumn is the time when many disabled centres and residential care homes conduct their residential holidays for their clients. Work and travel in the United Kingdom and you will be able to manage these themed holidays setup by charities. These getaways tend to be conducted throughout autumn in order to keep costs down.

Winter in the UK is not a time of great activity. In terms of volunteering in the UK, you’ll find projects that focus on social giving. Many homeless projects are desperately searching for volunteers at this time of year, even if it’s something as simple as handing out soup in kitchens. Believe it or not, these opportunities are not just confined to locals.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN UNITED KINGDOM

Working in the United Kingdom is one of the safest places you can work and travel in. The UK is an extremely diverse country with high levels of immigration. Don’t allow the media fear-mongering to deter you. The vast majority of people in this country regularly work with foreigners and someone from abroad volunteering is seen as nothing out of the ordinary. This is the same regardless of whether you decide to work in a rural area or an urban area. You’re sure to be welcomed with open arms when you enter the UK. Do you have any prior experiences you would like to share from working in the United Kingdom?

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What are you looking for?

When you join VisitBritain/VisitEngland, you join a global and inclusive organisation with incredible people at its heart. We share a mission to make tourism one of the UK’s most successful and productive sectors, united by our values which guide the way we work: with passion, in partnership and at pace.

We offer a range of exciting career opportunities including marketing, PR, communications, trade, digital, analytics and insights, e-commerce and corporate services. Start your new chapter by browsing our vacancies, meeting some of our team and reading frequently asked questions.  

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Our purpose is to drive a thriving tourism industry, creating economic prosperity across Britain. VisitBritain is active in 22 global markets, a network that enables us to build strong relationships, understand our customers and promote Britain effectively. Alongside this, VisitEngland continues to strengthen English tourism by leading and enabling a sustainable and resilient visitor economy.

Learn more about what we do .

What kind of workplace is VisitBritain/VisitEngland?

By working with us, you’ll help to inspire visitors to explore and experience Britain, and support our tourism industry to do the same. You’ll be part of a vibrant global network of colleagues, a friendly and fulfilling environment which promotes equity and encourages diversity and inclusion, career development, learning and well-being.

Read more Frequently Asked Questions about working for us below.

As one global team, we work together with passion, in partnership and at pace.  Our passion means we’re fuelled by enthusiasm and positivity to deliver excellent results. Our partnerships mean we’re empowered to collaborate with each other and our partners to achieve more impactful results.  Our pace means delivering innovation through agility, boldness and bravery. 

We’re keen to hear from people who share our values.

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Looking for real-life business experience, or a placement to help you gain a qualification? We offer paid internships in the UK and USA including marketing, PR, communications and e-commerce.

Internship opportunities in the UK : all of our interns are recruited in partnership with  Student Employment Services . If you are interested in internship opportunities, please contact them directly.

Internship opportunities in the USA : when we have vacancies available, they will be advertised on our recruitment platform .  

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Find freelance opportunities on our Freelance Content Producer Network. We’re looking for talented people to create content for VisitBritain and VisitEngland’s social channels, which have a combined following of more than 5 million. Showcase what Britain has to offer and get paid for doing what you love: we pay a pre-agreed fee for content, and send out opportunity alerts via our mailing list.

Meet our colleagues

Suzy faulkner, deputy commercial director – london.

“I wanted to work for a global company to give me the opportunity of being exposed to multiple areas of the business as well as people and cultures. Working at VisitBritain has broadened my perspectives, and in turn enhanced my professional capabilities which has added value to the organisation. 

“There is flexibility, as my agenda could cover calls with Asia in the morning and webinars in the USA in the evening, which has led to a happier, healthier work-life balance. I have also expanded my knowledge of global markets and learnt best practices relating to policies and strategies.”  

Robin Kagenaar, Digital Marketing Manager Netherlands – Amsterdam 

“Working in the Europe team is truly international. I enjoy catching up on travel trends, and sharing ideas and video calls with colleagues all over the continent. You learn something new every day, from tiny but important cultural differences to massive overlaps in traveller behaviour that you never knew were there. 

“Working at VisitBritain is inspiring, energising and educational and you get to meet some of the nicest, most professional people around.”

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“Britain is perceived very well in South Korea, and I am happy to represent it. The UK was actually the first country I visited overseas and it’s where I met my husband, so it’s a very special place to me. 

“My colleagues in London and in my region have always made me feel part of the team. We are so diverse, dynamic and delightful, and I am so proud to work alongside people who share my love for Britain.”

Celia Diaz, PR & Content Manager – Spain

“As a PR professional I worked in different areas of the tourism industry before I joined VisitBritain. One of the best things about working for an international company is the number of colleagues you meet from all around the globe. From Australia to Canada, to India and Brazil, we all work together to spread awareness of Britain.”

Frequently asked questions

What we offer: visitbritain/visitengland’s employee benefits.

Our employees are entitled to multiple benefits, subject to local legislation and regional reviews (please check the vacancy notice for details). The following benefits are applicable to our UK employees:

• Flexible working: we work to make flexibility a reality, and welcome conversations about flexible working from day one.
• Annual leave: you will have 25 days of annual leave when you join, rising to 30 days after five years’ service, plus an additional 2.5 ‘privilege days’ each year.
• Generous pension: we have a defined contribution pension scheme, with a maximum employer contribution of 11% of your annual salary.
• Enhanced parental and family leave policies: we provide enhanced family leave, offering up to 23 weeks of paid leave for maternity and adoption for eligible employees.
• Commitment to learning: we encourage and support development and learning, and offer on-the-job learning opportunities, mentoring schemes and formal training. We dedicate and provide a minimum of five days per year for employees to focus on their learning. 
• Season ticket and bicycle scheme loans.
• Eye-care voucher.
• Staff discounts on the VisitBritain Shop .  

How does VisitBritain/VisitEngland hire?

We assess each applicant impartially. We recruit candidates on merit through fair and open competition. Our recruitment is:

• Fair : we use reasonable endeavours to ensure there is no known or intentional bias in the recruitment process.
• Open : our roles are advertised both internally and externally.
• Based on merit : we select candidates based on their suitability against the essential criteria of the role.

We are an equal opportunities employer, fully committed to diversity, equality and inclusion. We celebrate all identities, giving everyone the opportunity to thrive in a culture where they are heard, respected and valued.

How can I apply for a role?

To apply for a role, you will need to register on our recruitment system . After registration, you’ll be asked to complete an online application. 

Your application form can be saved, reviewed and edited before submission. There are eight sections in each application form:

• Personal details
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• Declaration
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You may also be asked to answer job-specific questions as part of your application.

Always review the job description before applying, and use the personal statement section to highlight how your qualifications, skills and experience match the requirements.  

What should I expect after applying?

Your application will be evaluated against the job description and person specification. 

Successful candidates will be invited to an interview. For some roles, two rounds of interviews will be required. Our interviews are competency-based, designed to eliminate unconscious bias and involve two or more team members on the panel.

Successful candidates will receive a verbal offer, followed by a confirmation email and an official offer and contract of employment.

Once the employment contract is signed, we will contact your referees and undertake relevant safety and security checks.

Due to the volume of applications, we are only able to provide feedback to those who progress to the interview stage. You can request this by writing to [email protected] .

For information on how we are GDPR-compliant and manage your data, please see our Privacy Policy .

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We are sorry to hear that you have decided to make a complaint about our Recruitment and Selection process.

If you feel that your application has not been treated fairly you must submit a complaint in writing to  [email protected]  within three months from the date you receive the outcome of your application.

When sending your complaint, you must state the vacancy name and ID and explain the reasons for the complaint, providing evidence where possible.

Upon receiving your complaint, our Recruitment Business Partner will conduct an independent investigation and provide a written response to the complaint within 28 working days. If the deadline of 28 days cannot be met, you will be contacted and provided with a reason for the delay.

Potential outcomes from the investigation can be one or more of the following but not limited to:

• Complainant would be provided with detailed feedback answering their concerns;
• If training issues are identified within the recruitment and selection process, they will be actioned.

If you are dissatisfied with the response you receive from our Recruitment Business Partner, you can take it further by emailing [email protected] within four weeks of receiving the response. Our Legal Team will confirm receipt of your complaint within five working days and investigate further.

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18 Best Working Holiday Maker Jobs in the UK

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Mar 1, 2023 | London and UK Live Work and Play , Work Abroad Backpacker Jobs

Waiting Tables is a Popular Working Holiday Job in the UK

So you’re off to the UK for a working holiday and you plan to get a job. You are probably wanting to know what job types are available and how you will get a job, right? In this post I will cover the most popular working holidays jobs in the UK and how you can find one. Let’s get into it!

Table of Contents

Where will you Work in the UK?

Before I get into the most popular working holiday jobs you can do as a working holiday maker in the UK, you might want to know where the work is. Check out my map following for a quick overview of what is available and where. Most people on a UK working holiday set themselves up in London. London offers the most opportunities and has a working holiday infrastructure of employment agencies set up. But don’t forget the other capital cities of Cardiff, Edinburgh and Belfast. Also other major cities of York, Liverpool, Manchester, Bath , or Aberdeen as you could find work there too. Even in the countryside, in the villages jobs become available in a variety of fields.

Map of UK Showing Where the Working Holiday Jobs Are – reproduced from Live Work and Play in London and the UK ebook

How to Find a Job in the UK?

Most working holiday makers to the UK find a job via a number of ways. The most popular ways are through newspapers and trade magazines, travel brochures, recruitment websites such as Seek, Facebook groups, fellow travellers, hostels and the most popular option, recruitment agencies.  

Have a Copy of your CV, Qualifications and References Available

To get a job you will need to apply, and any future employers will want to see your CV, qualifications and references. Ensure you have copies of these available, preferably electronic copies so you can easily email them. Employers will also want to see your working holiday visa or any other visa allowing you to work in the UK and require your bank details to pay you.

Popular Working Holiday Jobs in the UK

Please note, the following jobs are listed in alphabetical order and any agencies listed are mentioned because they are happy to place working holiday makers into jobs. So these are the most popular jobs that working holiday makers find. Just because your profession isn’t listed doesn’t mean that type of work doesn’t exist, it does and if you want to find work in the same field you are currently working in, there would be a recruitment agency available for you to register with.  

Accounting, Banking and Financial Jobs

The first on my list of popular working holiday jobs in the UK are accounting, banking and financial jobs. London is the heartland of the UK’s financial services centre and working holiday makers with accounting, banking and financial backgrounds are in demand. In fact, if you have overseas qualifications (which are recognised) you are often sought after. The majority of employers are based in two areas – the older ‘City’ and the modern glass towers and skyscrapers of the Docklands. However, there are a number of other locations in and around London. There are jobs also in the home counties (those around London). In addition, some of the UK’s other major cities have vibrant financial districts including the historic Scottish towns of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Most working holiday makers find a job through specialist recruitment agencies such as Goodman Masson, Hays Personnel, Michael Page and Robert Walters Associates. Pay rates are good and depending on the job you are doing expect to receive £15+ per hour

TIP : Dress conservatively. Males will need to wear a suit and tie (with a bowler hat and briefcase optional! Kidding). Some offices have a no-pants policy for females so either a skirt and shirt or a corporate suit should be worn. Work clothes can be bought once you arrive.  

If you’ve heard the saying ‘there’s a pub on every corner’–well, it’s true. And this is why it is one of the most popular working holiday jobs in the UK. Even if you haven’t pulled a beer before the guv’nor (the owner or manager of the pub) may take you on (maybe only on a trial basis) to see how you cope with serving crowds, using the tills and eftpos machines and how well you interact with customers, especially the locals.  

Many working holiday makers (singles and couples) find a position in London however, positions can be found all over the UK – as every town has a pub or two. Live-in bar work is popular and is great for working holiday makers as it takes care of finding somewhere to live and work at the same time. The hours can be long and often hard but it is a great way to meet people. You will receive a small wage, free or subsidised accommodation which might be your own room or you may share it with another employee and meals (usually only while you’re on duty). Live-in employees can expect to receive a wage of about £250+ per week in London and about £20 less in the rest of the UK. Some pubs pay an hourly rate of around £10+ per hour. You may also get tips on top of your wage.  

To get a job in a pub you can walk in and ask if any jobs are available or contact agencies such as Live-in-Jobs, London Pub Co, UK Live In Jobs and Walkabout which is a chain of Australian pubs. Many working holiday makers work and travel their way around the UK by doing stints in pubs in different areas.

TIPS: Beers are not served with much of a head so practise pouring them this way. Also, ice isn’t put into drinks automatically, so ask the punter if they would like ice. Use a clean glass for each drink unless the customer hands their old glass back to you which you may refill–check with the supervisor about this.  

Barista Jobs are Popular Working Holiday Jobs in the UK

Tea is king in the UK, but coffee is queen! Everyone loves a good coffee in the UK which means there are jobs for baristas. Plenty of coffee shops have international working holiday makers making coffees so if you’ve got the skills, then why not get a barista job. This type of job is very portable as positions can be available throughout the UK, and beyond! It one of the most popular working holiday jobs in the UK.

Care Work  

You do not necessarily need to be qualified, experienced or female to undertake care work. As long as you are caring, patient, honest, reliable, have a first aid certificate and an up-to-date police check you should be able to secure work. You may also be asked to apply for a DBS Check (Disclosure and Barring Services). This checks your details against the Children’s and Vulnerable Adult register.  

Care work ranges from being a companion to someone providing personal care. Nurses who don’t want to go through the registration process often take care work. Positions can be live-in, so you will have your accommodation and meals provided. The daily rate is anywhere between £90 and £140 but the rate you receive is set according to the hours of work, the experience required by the client and your qualifications. Positions can be found from advertisements in The Lady magazine. Agencies to contact for a care work job include Aunt Jessica Cares , Christies Care  and ENA Care Agency .

Chefs, Cooks and Kitchen Hands

Everybody’s gotta eat right? And people in the UK are no different. This is good news for chefs of all levels and specialities, cooks and kitchen hands. With the array of eateries ranging from local cafes to Michelen star rated restaurants you shouldn’t be without work for too long! Even better news is you can get a job anywhere in the UK because there are many cafes and restaurants throughout. So if you want to work and travel your way around the UK, finding a job as a chef, cook or kitchen hand is a great option. Many find a job by walking into an establishment and asking if any jobs are going. Plus many jobs are advertised in Tuesday’s Evening Standard in the section known as ‘the menu page’. There are many agencies you can register with as well including The Admiral Group, Chef Centre and Towngate Personnel .

TIP : Chef’s may need their own set of knives. Either take them with you or budget to buy some on your arrival in the UK.

Fruit and Vegetable Picking

Picking Fruit is a Popular Working Holiday Job in the UK

Jobs can be found picking fruit and vegetables in different parts of the UK. What a great way to discover parts of the UK you may not have considered visiting. If you have never done this kind of work before, the first few days will be a big learning experience as you adapt to working outside in all sorts of weather conditions. Jobs can differ greatly from picking root vegetables to climbing in fruit trees. Before you take on a fruit or vegetable picking job confirm what is included like accommodation, whether you need your own equipment such as secateurs and the hours you will be working. And most importantly, how much and how you will be paid. Rates of pay can be calculated either by an hourly rate or on how much you pick.  

If you are interested to pick fruit and vegetables in the UK you can find positions advertised in Farmer’s Weekly and Farmer’s Guardian. You could register with a recruitment agency such as Fruitful Ltd and Picking Jobs .

TIP : Dress for the weather you will be working in. Fingerless gloves and a waterproof jacket will be your best friends.

Farming Jobs  

There is a demand for skilled tractor drivers, machinery operators for operating the larger farm equipment.  Also semi-skilled workers for operating the smaller, less complicated equipment. Non-seasonal work you could find includes working with livestock – dairy farming, sheep, beef, pigs and chickens. General farm work includes feeding animals, grooming horses, shepherding and general assistance in the running of the farm.  

Knowing when to pitch your talents is a good place to start so following is a rough guide as to what is available and when.

Year round : fruit and vegetable picking, grading potatoes and onions, tree planting, milking, fencing, general farm work. Spring : lambing assistants in Scotland and Wales from January to April, calving, tractor drivers to plough the fields. Shearers are required May to July. Summer : harvest time, baiting hooks for salmon fishers, stalkers for deer and pheasant shoots Autumn : planting next seasons crops Winter : turkey plucking for Christmas. Beef farming expect work between February and May.  

Work is often advertised in the Farmer’s Weekly magazine and on their website. Agencies to contact include 4xtrahands.com and for dairy jobs LKL Services .

Hostel and Other Accommodation Jobs

There are many hostels and other types of accommodation where you could get a job while on your UK working holiday. Accommodation options, particularly hostels, B&Bs and budget hotels are often staffed by working holiday makers. Jobs that need filling are on reception, cleaning and housekeeping of rooms, maintenance and preparing and serving breakfasts. Many of the positions are live-in which takes care of finding somewhere to live and a job at the same time. One of the best ways to find such work is to ask where you are staying or walk in off the street and ask if any jobs are available. Or check out the HostelWorld website. Even though this site is for booking a hostel, you can use the contact details to directly approach the hostel for work.

READ MORE : How to Find a Job in a Hostel 

Information Technology (IT)  

IT professionals can find contract work in the UK. Positions range from technical, network and help desk support to analysts/programmers and project managers working on everything from main-frame, open system platforms to personal computers.   Work is available on a contract basis for varying lengths of time, which will fit in perfectly for those of you who to want to travel between assignments. Positions can be found through the newspapers, employment websites such as Careerbuilder and Monsterboard or through a specialist recruitment agency of which there are many. A couple to contact for a job include Contractor UK and Project People . Many IT jobs are outsourced to remote workers thanks to the pandemic so check out sites such as Fiverr to get a job.

Medical and Health Care Staff

Medical and health care specialists will need to be registered with the appropriate UK body to work in the UK in their chosen field. It can be a long and expensive process to get your registration so many seek jobs in other fields. To find out more about registering check out the following. Once you have your registration you can register with recruitment agencies to find a position.

Pharmacists –  Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain   Dentists  – General Dental Council Doctors –   General Medical Council Health Professionals – Health Professionals Council

Nannies, Mannies, Mother’s Helps and Au Pairs

Being a nanny, manny, mothers’ help or au pair are popular working holiday jobs

Having a nanny, manny (male nanny), mother’s help or Au Pair is part of the British way of life. Many UK families find it quite prestigious to have an Australasian who is considered part of the family. You don’t necessarily need qualifications either. Having a caring attitude, a driver’s licence (a manual one is preferred) and childcare-related references matter more. Though a qualification will enhance the number of positions available to you. A police check from your home country is a must. You may be required to get a police check from the UK. More details available at the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service).

If you are wondering the difference of the names here’s a brief overview. A nanny/manny is responsible for looking after the child/children. As parents are often working professionals, positions can be ‘sole charge’ which means you have total responsibility for the child/children in their parents absence. Duties include entertaining them, getting them up in the morning, dropping them off and picking them up from school. As well as taking them to ballet, music, swimming lessons or whatever, tidying up after them, feeding them and bathing them.  

A mother’s help does just that, helps the mother with her duties. These can include looking after the children, running errands, shopping, washing, light housework, cooking and generally helping out.

  An Au Pair is usually someone young who has come to improve their language skills while living with a family. In return for food and board and a wage duties will include mostly looking after children and generally helping out where required.  

Most nanny, manny, mother’s help and Au Pair positions are live-in which includes your own room, meals, use of the car. Maybe even overseas holidays–but you are usually looking after the children during these holidays. Live-out positions aren’t as common as live-in ones. Live-in salaries can range from £220+ net per week while live-out salaries range from £250+ net per week.  

Positions are advertised in the free ex-pat traveller magazines and The Lady magazine available in newsagents. You can register with a specialist nanny recruitment agency such as Empire Nannies , KiwiOz Nannies or Poppy Lane Placements .  

Overseas trained nurses are a highly prized species in the UK. You shouldn’t be without work if you have the right qualification and get your UK registration. To practise as a nurse or midwife in the UK you need to be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) . Once you have your registration the choice of work available is wide and varied and can be in either NHS (National Health Service) or private hospitals. Many nurses find a position through specialist nursing recruitment agencies such as BNA Nursing Association, Nurses4London ,  and Strand Nurses Bureau . Nurses who don’t obtain registration often find a nanny or care work job.

Office Support (Reception, PA, Administration)

Working in an office in the UK is a popular working holiday maker job

Anyone with secretarial or admin skills will find it easy to obtain work. This is especially the case during summer as this is when most British employees take their annual holidays. The skills required for such work are wide and varied. You don’t need them all to secure a job but the more the merrier. Skills required can include audio typing with a typing speed of at least 60 wpm and shorthand of around 80 wpm. If you can use different word processing packages, have a knowledge of spreadsheets, the ability to use a switchboard, have a confident phone manner, can file and photocopy can make and tea and coffee – you should have enough skills to get a job.  

Positions can be found in a broad range of areas. Some jobs require specialist secretarial and administrative skills such as medical, bilingual, legal, media, property and banking.  Rates of pay range from £12+ per hour for data entry and £15+ per hour for an audio typist/secretary and PA. You should be paid according to the skills you use on the assignment. Specialist secretaries (legal and medical with around one or two years’ experience) can expect to earn £1 or £2 more. And are highly sort after. Recruitment agencies to contact include Office Angels , Drake International and Manpower.   

TIP : Dress codes are conservative; the navy suit and string of pearls is alive and well. Many offices have a no-pants (trousers) policy for females. Males must wear a suit and tie. It’s advisable to dress up on the first day, see what the others are wearing and then dress accordingly.  

Snow Jobs in Ski Centres

Many working holiday makers experience a snow season in the Scottish Highlands . There are five main ski centres to find a job – the Lecht, Nevis Range, Cairngorm, Glenshee and Glencoe. The ski season generally runs from November/December to the middle of May. This does depend on the white stuff though. Ski resorts need hospitality staff for their restaurants and cafes and ski and snowboard instructors are in demand on the ski fields. Along with lift operators and maintenance people. Accommodation isn’t usually provided so before you take on a position organise a place to live. Some of the resorts have a work bus to get you to and from the resorts and some resorts are small and don’t have accommodation on the mountain. Positions are sometimes advertised in the newspapers, or you could obtain a ski Scotland brochure to get contact details of the resorts.

READ MORE : How to get a job in a Scottish Ski Resort

Overseas qualified teachers such as those from Australia, New Zealand and Canada are highly regarded in schools in the UK.   Positions can be for a day, week or term or more. A good agency will help you acclimatise, educationally as well as socially. If you want to work in London, be prepared to travel as work can be found all over Greater London. It is a good idea to find somewhere to live first, and then approach agencies that can place you in positions in the area you are living.  

The school year runs from September to July in the UK and has three terms. The best times for finding long-term teaching jobs are in early September, when the school year begins and March through May. The busiest times for day-to-day supply work in the schools are October, November and January through to March. The end of April to mid-July can sometimes be busy too, though secondary school work tends to tail off once exams are under way at the end of May.  

To find work, look in newspapers like The Guardian on a Tuesday, and The Times Education Supplement (this does not come with The Times; it is a separate newspaper), on a Friday. Or contact a specialist teaching recruitment agency such as ANZUK Education , Protocol Teachers and Timeplan .

TIP : Dress is smart/casual–no jeans on the first day. Dress up the first day and then dress accordingly. Your agency should be able to advise you on what to wear. You will come in contact with a diverse range of students and although leggings may be fashionable, they may not be appropriate in Hindu or Muslim schools. You will need to be sensitive to ethnic diversity.

Technical, Trades, Labouring and Industrial Jobs

Jobs in the building industry are popular working holiday jobs

If you already work in technical, trades, general labouring and industrial professions you will know the variety of positions available. Briefly jobs are classified as follows.  

Technical (built industry): engineers, draughtsmen, architects, inspectors, tracers, town planners, etc. Trades : electricians, plumbers, carpenters, welders, boilermakers, etc. General labouring : labourers, process workers, dock hands, etc. Industrial : store people, forklift operators, drivers, stock takers, fitters, riggers, etc.  

Most positions require a CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) . Once you have this register with an agency for jobs. Agencies such as Eden Brown or Anders Elite for a technical job. If seeking a job as a tradie contact Extraman or Olympic Industrial Staff .

TIP : Bring suitable work clothes, ie. Appropriate shoes, tools (or budget to buy some on arrival).  

Waiting Tables

The last job on my list of popular working holiday jobs in the UK is waiting tables. Waiting tables is a universal profession. With the number of eateries in London and throughout the UK, you should be able to pick up work. The work available ranges from working in fast food outlets, pubs, restaurants, cafes to private parties. Bring full black and whites with you and the waiter’s friend, a bottle opener. Some places, like pubs, provide a uniform (usually a T-shirt) that you wear with a pair of jeans. Positions and agencies are advertised in the papers Some eateries place an advertisement in their window or simply walk in and ask.

Other Jobs in the UK that Pay  

Jobs listed above are the most popular jobs working holiday makers to the UK find however, there are plenty of other jobs available too. You could busk, become a bike courier, be a housekeeper, gardener or butler. Maybe work at a gym as a personal trainer or  start your acting career on stage. Possibly muck stables on a stud farm, report for a newspaper or walk dogs. Start your own little business and cut hair or provide facials and massages at a spa. Get a job in a summer camp or a travel agency. Teach English or start a side hustle or a business online. More jobs and contact details for landing jobs can be found in my ebook Live Work and Play in London and the UK .

Are you Ready to Get a Job in the UK?

So these are the most popular jobs working holiday makers get while on a UK working holiday. Which will you choose? Will you try to find a job in your current profession or try something new? Whatever you decide to do, know there are work opportunities in the UK for you. If you have worked in the UK or want to ask a question about the above jobs, I would love to hear in the comments following.

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Sharyn McCullum – Travel Writer / Blogger, Remote On-line Worker, sometime Digital Nomad and Travel, Live and Work Abroad Expert. Is a chocoholic, coffee connoisseur and lover of ’80s music. Been travelling all her life thanks to her dad who worked for an airline. Lived in London 4 years on a working holiday. Has holidayed in Hawaii over 15 times and currently calls Melbourne, Australia home. Is inspiring others to live work play travel around the world with this blog. Read more about Sharyn here.

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