Child Employment - Northern Ireland

The Education Authority issues employment permits in respect of children of compulsory school age who propose to engage in part-time employment. 

As required by law, namely,  Articles 135-136 of The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and The Employment of Children Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996 (amended 2006) all employers of children of compulsory school age must apply for a permit to the Education Authority i.e. to the CEET team before the proposed starting date of the child's employment. The application must include written consent from the parent/carer of the child.

N.B. It is unlawful for any child under the age of thirteen to be employed.

If the Designated Officer for Child Protection in CEET is satisfied that all legal and regulatory conditions are met an employment permit will be issued. If a permit is not issued, the proposed employment is unlawful.

Application forms and regulations are available from the CEET office or from the downloads section on this page.