UK Seasonal Work Advice

Seasonal work in the UK offers a rewarding opportunity for those seeking short-term employment, typically lasting between 3 to 6 months during the busy summer or winter months, depending on the job type. Various seasonal positions available in the UK include:

• Warehouse worker

• Waitstaff

• Delivery driver

• TEFL teacher

• Cleaner.

Furthermore, positions like fruit picker, horticulturist, retail worker, and others are available for those seeking part-time seasonal employment.

In this article, we cover:

• Benefits of seasonal jobs

• Types of seasonal work in the UK

• How to find seasonal work (UK citizens and international requirements)

• Tips for creating a CV for a seasonal job.

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For more job interview tips, explore our blog or refer to our in-depth article on how to write a good CV.

Benefits of seasonal jobs in the UK

If you’re a student, a recent graduate, or an international individual seeking part-time seasonal employment, obtaining a work visa is a fairly simple process. Additionally, whether you are after paid experience or volunteer opportunities, seasonal jobs offer a range of benefits, including:

• Flexible employment options allow you to choose short-term assignments that align with your availability. This can be particularly advantageous for students, retirees, or individuals seeking additional income during busy holiday seasons.

• If you have no experience, it’s an excellent way to gain hands-on experience in various industries. Whether you're interested in hospitality, retail, agriculture, or tourism, season jobs offer the opportunity to learn new skills.

• It can boost your employment prospects by bringing you into contact with a diverse range of people, including co-workers, customers, and supervisors. Building these connections can be valuable for your future career or for finding long-term employment opportunities.

• It allows you to explore different jobs and industries without a long-term commitment. It's an excellent way to discover what you enjoy and where your talents lie.

If you don't know where to start, refer to our guide on the CV Writing Process or check out our top tips on how to improve your CV.

5 types of seasonal jobs in the UK

Businesses frequently require additional assistance during peak times like Christmas or summer holidays. These periods can offer the ideal opportunity to gain experience or earn extra income. For some, the UK is the perfect place to improve English language skills. Although the possibilities are limitless, the ones listed below are the most common types of seasonal work.

1. Retail

The retail sector experiences a significant surge in demand during the holiday season, making it an ideal time to seek employment. Positions such as sales associates, cashiers, and customer service representatives become plentiful as stores prepare for increased customer traffic. For example, major retailers like John Lewis and Tesco often hire seasonal staff to assist with the busy shopping period. To ensure your application stands out, refer to our retail CV writing guides.

2. Hospitality

The hospitality industry is another area that frequently seeks additional staff during peak seasons, particularly around Christmas and summer holidays. Hotels, restaurants, and catering services often need extra hands to manage the influx of guests and events. For example, popular chains like Premier Inn and Wetherspoon often look for temporary staff. Positions can range from waitstaff to kitchen assistants, providing a dynamic work environment.

For CV writing guides, refer to the below examples:

• Chef CV.

• Hospitality CV.

• Bartender CV.

3. Agriculture

If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider fruit picking and harvesting jobs, which are abundant in the summer and autumn months. These roles are typically found in rural areas, offering a unique opportunity to work outdoors and enjoy the scenic countryside. Farms may hire seasonal workers for tasks like apple or strawberry picking, which not only provide physical activity but also a chance to connect with nature and learn about agricultural practices.

4. Tourism

The tourism industry sees a notable increase in demand during the summer, with various opportunities available. Positions can include tour guides, lifeguards, hotel staff, and entertainment roles. For example, companies like P&O Ferries and local attractions often require extra staff to accommodate tourists.

5. Events

The holiday season is a prime time for events and parties, leading to a heightened demand for event planners, coordinators, and support staff. Companies and organisations often host Christmas parties, weddings, and festivals, creating numerous opportunities in event management. For example, event planning agencies may seek temporary assistants to help with logistics, setup, and guest management. Refer to the event management CV writing guide for more tips.

How to find seasonal work in the UK

As the list above mentions, there are numerous avenues to explore part-time seasonal work in the UK. If you are a UK citizen just looking for seasonal jobs, the below resources may be a good start.

• Season Workers.

• Employment 4 students.

• DWP.

• Young Capital.

For more tips, refer to our guide on best student jobs.

5 tips for creating a seasonal job CV

When creating a CV for seasonal positions, it’s essential to tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for. Keep these key strategies in mind as they will help you to improve your CV for seasonal work:

1. Emphasise relevant skills

Highlight skills that are directly related to the role and consider mentioning them early in your personal profile to capture attention. For example, if you’re applying for a retail position during the holiday season, you might emphasise customer service skills, cash handling experience, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

2. Showcase transferable skills

Include skills gained from previous jobs that can be applied to the seasonal position, demonstrating your versatility. For example, if you have experience in hospitality, you can highlight skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, which are valuable in various seasonal roles, such as event staffing or food service. Refer to the top skills employers are looking for.

3. Highlight volunteer experience

If applicable, mention any volunteer work that showcases relevant abilities or commitment, as this can strengthen your application. For example, if you volunteered at a local charity during a busy season, describe your role and the skills you developed, such as organisation and time management, which are essential for seasonal jobs.

4. Include relevant hobbies and interests

Incorporate hobbies and interests that align with the job to give employers a sense of your personality and enthusiasm. If you’re applying for a role in outdoor retail, mentioning your passion for hiking or camping can show your genuine interest in the industry and your ability to connect with customers. Refer to our guide on how to include hobbies and interests on a CV.

5. Write a tailored cover letter

Accompany your CV with a good cover letter that expresses your interest in the specific job and explains why you are a great fit for the role. For example, if you’re applying for a position in a summer festival, explain your passion for the arts and any relevant experience you have, such as previous event coordination or customer service roles. Tailoring your cover letter not only highlights your enthusiasm but also provides context for your CV.

Key takeaways

Seasonal work can be a fulfilling experience and a valuable opportunity to gain work experience for many. To make your application stand out, consider including a tailored and matching cover letter. This demonstrates to recruiters and hiring managers that you have invested time in your application and thoroughly reviewed the job description.

Next steps?

Consider using our CV templates to kickstart your job search or easily customise one of our CV examples. You can also find our cover letter templates to complement your CV. Alternatively, connect with our professionals through our CV Writing Services for personalised career document guidance.

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FAQs

What is a Seasonal Work Visa in the UK?

The Seasonal Work Visa in the UK allows foreign nationals to come to the country for a limited time to work in specific sectors, primarily agriculture and hospitality, during peak seasons. This visa typically permits individuals to work for a designated employer for a maximum duration, often up to six months.

Who can apply for a Seasonal Work Visa?

Individuals from eligible countries outside the UK can apply for a Seasonal Work Visa. Applicants must meet specific criteria, such as having a job offer from an approved employer in the UK and demonstrating their ability to support themselves during their stay. Additionally, you could consider volunteering. Check out our volunteer CV guide for more tips.

How much does a seasonal worker make in the UK?

Earnings can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of work, location, and employer.

• Agricultural work: Seasonal agricultural workers, such as those picking fruits and vegetables, are often paid hourly. As of 2024, the National Living Wage (NLW) for workers aged 23 and over is £10.42 per hour. Workers aged 21-22 receive a slightly lower rate.

• Hospitality and tourism: Seasonal jobs in hospitality and tourism, such as those in hotels, restaurants, and theme parks, typically pay around the National Minimum Wage (NMW) or NLW. Tips can significantly boost earnings in hospitality roles, especially in restaurants and bars.

• Retail: Seasonal retail workers, especially around the Christmas period, are usually paid hourly and earn around the NMW or NLW.

• Christmas and summer jobs: Retail and delivery companies often hire additional staff for the Christmas season, while tourist attractions may increase staffing during the summer. These jobs generally offer pay rates similar to those in hospitality and retail.

Is the UK seasonal visa now open?

Yes, you can apply for a visa at any time, and as a UK citizen, seasonal work offers many benefits. Keep in mind that the period from January to March would be a good time to start applying for summer work in the UK.

How do I get seasonal work in the UK?

1. Start by looking for seasonal job opportunities through online job portals, company websites, or by contacting recruitment agencies that specialise in seasonal employment.

2. Ensure your CV is up to date and highlights relevant skills or work experience that make you a suitable candidate for the role.

3. Apply to the positions that interest you, and be prepared for interviews or assessments as part of the hiring process.

4. If you are not a UK resident, ensure you have the correct visa.

Refer to Seasonal Worker Visa (Temporary Work) regarding eligibility.

What are the top UK seasonal work visa sponsorship companies in 2024?

According to seasonal work visa, the top companies include:

• Fruit Full Jobs

• FGS Agri

• JEPCO

Additionally, check out visa sponsorship jobs for more companies hiring seasonal workers.