Purpose

At Capital Sky, when employing a young person under the age of 18 – whether for work, work experience, or as an apprentice – we recognise that we have the same responsibilities for their health, safety, and welfare as we do for all other employees. However, due to their age, maturity level, and limited awareness of workplace health and safety issues, we acknowledge the need for additional protections.

To this end, explicit risk assessments will be conducted for all young persons to address the specific factors affecting their safety and that of their colleagues. These assessments will identify and control any risks, and young workers will be made aware of these risks and the control measures in place, in accordance with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

Appropriate supervision will be provided at all times to ensure that young persons undertake their tasks safely and are not exposed to risks that could affect their health, safety, or welfare.

Capital Sky Framework

  • Capital Sky will enable young persons to undertake work experience, employment, or apprenticeships under the age of 18.
  • We do not provide work experience opportunities to anyone under the age of 15.
  • Employment or apprenticeships can only be offered once a young person has reached their Mandatory School Leaving Age (MSLA).
    • A Capital Sky Director must approve any post intended for a young person, after which our HR and Health & Safety teams will be notified. A workplace risk assessment will be completed before the young person joins the business.
  • Appropriate supervision will be provided to ensure young persons safely undertake their tasks.
  • No young person under 18 will be permitted to work without direct supervision by a fully competent and qualified individual.

Compulsory School Age and Work Eligibility

A child remains of compulsory school age until the last Friday in June of the academic year in which they turn 16. After this date, they reach their Mandatory School Leaving Age (MSLA) and are eligible to apply for a National Insurance Number and work full-time, subject to employment law restrictions for those under 18.

Work Experience

If employing a school-aged child (below MSLA) for work experience, the local education authority must be informed. If satisfied with the arrangements, the council may issue an employment permit where required by local bylaws.

A child is not insured for work without an employment permit where one is legally required.

Children do not require a permit for work experience that has been arranged directly by their school.

For assistance, guidance, or to apply for a work permit, contact the Education Department of the relevant local council or Education Welfare Service.