Let's talk about the power of early work experiences and how they can shape our confidence and skills. A bold move at 14 changed Caelan's life, and he's not alone.
Caelan's story begins in a chip shop in Aberdeen, where he started working part-time at just 14 years old. He believes this early start in the workplace made him more responsible and, most notably, boosted his confidence. "I was shy at first," he recalls, "but now I can chat with anyone easily."
But here's where it gets controversial... The laws surrounding child labor and employment have been a topic of debate for decades. Introduced in the 1930s, these laws aimed to crack down on child labor and protect young people's well-being. While children over 14 can be employed in 'light work', the process is not straightforward, often requiring employers to obtain permits.
And this is the part most people miss... Plans are afoot to change these laws, making it easier for under-16s to work part-time. The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, currently making its way through the House of Lords, aims to give teenagers more flexibility in their work schedules. If passed, it would allow young people to work for longer hours and at more convenient times, such as before school or later in the evening.
Caelan and his peers, Kenzie and Erin, who also started working at 15, are living proof of the benefits of early employment. Within a year, Caelan was able to treat his mum to a holiday in Dubai, and Kenzie saved up for a car. Erin, who was initially nervous, now feels confident interacting with new people thanks to her customer service experience.
The new bill covers all aspects of child protection and safeguarding, including rules on school attendance. The employment section aims to give young people more opportunities to work, with plans to lift the two-hour Sunday working limit and extend the daily working hours. However, the maximum number of hours per week will remain the same, ensuring that schoolwork and education remain a priority.
But there's a catch... The current rules are complicated by varying local bylaws across the UK. Some, like Dundee's 1973 bylaws, prohibit working in certain industries, while others, like Angus and Edinburgh, allow children as young as 10 to work in light agricultural or horticultural roles under parental supervision. This variation makes it challenging for employers to keep up with the law.
Employment law specialist Dawn Robertson stresses the importance of safeguarding children in the workplace. "Children should not be employed in any work that could be harmful to them," she says. "We must treat children as children and be thoughtful about what we allow them to do."
Stuart Devine, owner of The Ashvale, where Caelan works, agrees that updating the rules is necessary. He believes that young people can fill important roles in businesses and that their early work experiences can be a vital step towards future success. "They're now schoolteachers, nurses, doctors, engineers offshore. I think the employment part has played a vital part in getting them to the next stage."
Nicola Killean, Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland, supports the changes, believing that older children can gain valuable experience and develop their skills and independence through employment. However, she emphasizes that their rights must continue to be protected, in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
So, what do you think? Should we encourage more young people to enter the workforce early, or is it better to prioritize education and protect their childhood? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
