Best Part Time Student Jobs

Balancing a part-time job alongside your studies can be challenging, especially as student maintenance loans often fall short of covering living costs. However, there are plenty of flexible opportunities that can provide much-needed income without disrupting your academic commitments.

Online Tutor

If you prefer working from home, becoming an online tutor can be a great option. Platforms like MyTutor and Tutorful allow you to teach subjects you excel in, and everything from setup to teaching is conducted online.

The process typically involves applying to the platform, passing an interview, and having your profile go live for students and parents to browse. After a free introductory lesson, you can start earning, with rates usually around £10–£20 per session, depending on your subject and experience. The flexibility is a major perk—if university work gets too demanding, you can toggle your availability off and resume when ready.

Child Minding

Child minding is a rewarding way to earn money while helping families in need of reliable care. Websites like Care.com and Bubble are excellent platforms for advertising your services.

To get started, you’ll need a DBS (formerly CRB) check, which you can apply for online. Once cleared, you can begin marketing yourself through these apps or word-of-mouth referrals. Though it may take time to build a client base, child minding is flexible and pays well—especially once you gain regular clients.

Bar Work

Bar work remains a popular choice for students, offering evening shifts that don’t clash with daytime lectures. It’s ideal if you don’t mind late hours, and the pay can vary depending on the establishment. Cocktail bars, for example, often pay significantly more.

Consider investing in a short cocktail-making course, as this can boost your employability and earning potential. Job boards like Indeed are great for finding vacancies.

Content Writing and Freelance Work

If you have a knack for writing or digital skills, freelance content creation is a fantastic opportunity. Start by building a small portfolio, which could include a free content piece for a local business. For example, you could design a short promotional article, social media post, or graphic to showcase your skills. This work can serve as a portfolio piece to present to other potential clients. If the business likes your work, they may hire you for further paid projects.

Freelancing also helps you develop skills like meeting deadlines, communicating with clients, and managing projects. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour are great places to find freelance gigs in content writing, graphic design, digital marketing, and more.

LinkedIn Opportunities

LinkedIn is not just for seasoned professionals; it’s also a valuable tool for students seeking part-time or freelance work. Set up a LinkedIn profile highlighting your skills, interests, and any relevant experience. Use the platform to:

• Search for freelance or remote opportunities.
• Connect with small businesses that might need digital marketing, content writing, or social media management services.
• Join groups for freelancers or students looking for part-time work.

You can also publish articles directly on LinkedIn to showcase your skills, build credibility, and attract potential clients.

Work for Your University

Universities often have part-time jobs available for students, with flexible hours and competitive pay. Popular roles include:

• Campus tour guides during open days.
• Library assistants or administrative staff.
• Ambassadors answering questions for prospective students.

Check with your university’s careers service or departmental office to find opportunities. These jobs typically pay well (often above £10 per hour) and offer the convenience of working on campus.

Useful Links to Get Started

• MyTutor – Online tutoring platform.
• Tutorful – Connects tutors with students.
• Care.com – Child-minding and caregiving jobs.
• Bubble – App for finding babysitting opportunities.
• Indeed – General job board with part-time options.
• Upwork – Freelance work opportunities.
• Fiverr – Marketplace for freelance services.
• PeoplePerHour – Freelance work platform.
• LinkedIn – Professional networking and job opportunities.

By leveraging these resources and being proactive, you can find a flexible job that fits around your studies while helping you build valuable skills for the future.