Working In The UK
The information below is for all students, UK, EEA, International etc it provides information about any restrictions on working in the UK and infomation about the 'prevention of Illegal Working' laws which means ALL applicants for work need to show certain forms of ID.
Useful Websites
Have a look at the websites / documents below for more information:
UKBA - Worker Registration Scheme Info
UKBA - A2 Registration Certificate Info
UKBA Summary Guidance 'Preventing Illegal Working'
UKCISA - Working Whilst you Study In the UK - International Students
UKCISA - Working in the UK After your Studies - International Students
UKCISA - EEA / A2 / A8 Information - Working in the UK
If you have any questions about working in the UK please do not hesitate to contact the Jobshop or Independent Advice Unit.
Working Abroad
Before you commit yourself, do your research and ask lots of questions. Good organisations have nothing to hide and will provide answers.
These are some basic questions to ask any agency you may be thinking of using:
Travel
- What are the arrangements and who pays?
- Who pays for the Visa?
- If you decide, or are for any reason forced to come home early is your ticket transferable?
Accommodation
- Who is responsible for finding your accommodation?
- Do you have the address of where you will be staying?
- What is the minimum standard od accommodation you can expect?
- How much is the accommodation?
- If you are staying with a local family, will they be paid? Why are they having you to stay?
- How far is it from the workplace/nearest town?
- Is it safe? What is the local situation? Contact Contact the Foreign Office for up to date information. They will tell you if there are known problems. Check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Website or call 0845 850 2829
The Work
- Which hours will you work and how much free time will you have?
- How much will be paid and when? How does this match up to local wages?
- If the pay is based upon commission how realistic are the set sales targets will you be expected to work on a self-employed basis? if yes, what are the implications for tax, national insurance and the cost of overheads - e.g. renting out the organisations equiptment?
- What sort of preparation will be required / useful before you leave the UK?
- If teaching, what will be the size and age range of the classes?
- In some societies women (including foreigners) have a very subordinate role both at home and at work. Can you cope with this?
Support from the organistion?
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What is the extent of the insurance offered? Will it cover repatriation if you become seriously ill, personal injury in the workplace, travel difficulties? Ask for a copy of the policy.
- Will there be an English speaking representative close by or contactable?
- What type of briefing will you received before you go and when you arrive?
- Will you receive adequate training for the job you are to do? What support materials/resources will be available?
- Will you be working alone or as part of a team? What support will be in place to ensure your personal safety?
Values of the Orgnisation
- Do you know where your money goes? How much goes on travel, accommodation, administration? Are you happy with this?
- Whose interests is the organisation serving?
- Are the interests of the local population being served, or are you party to their exploitation?
- Will your activities be welcomed by local people?
Tips
- Get everything in writing
- Before signing your commitment talk to at least two returnees – if possible to someone what has been to location with the same organisation and to someone who chose to come home early. The hiring organisation should be willing and able to put you in contact with such people.
- If in any doubt about an organisation call in or contact the Jobshop
Work Abroad Organisations
As most agencies update their information regularly it is best to check their website for up to date information. We have listed some work abroad agencies below.
Please note the Jobshop does not recommend any of the agencies below we are simply advertising their vacancies.
www.i-to-i.com
www.globaladventures.com
www.campamerica.co.uk
www.unitedsocceracademy.com
www.languageassistant.co.uk
www.gapworld.com
www.campbeaumont.com
www.ccusa.com
www.campleaders.com
www.workandtravelcompany.com
www.teaching-abroad.co.uk
www.globalchoices.co.uk
www.bunac.org
N.B. This is not an exhaustive list there are other work abroad companies, just search for 'work abroad' on the www!