Part-Time Job Opportunities at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University (BU) offers a vibrant environment for students seeking part-time work to support their studies. With its coastal location in Bournemouth, a bustling town known for its tourism and creative industries, students have access to diverse opportunities both on and off campus. Part-time jobs not only help cover living expenses but also build valuable skills like time management, communication, and teamwork. The university supports students by providing resources through its Careers Centre and student employment services. International students on a Tier 4 visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, while UK students have more flexibility. Below, we explore the types of jobs available, how to find them, and tips for success.

On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

Working on campus is ideal for BU students as it allows easy access to classes and integrates well with academic schedules. The university employs hundreds of students each year in various roles. These positions often prioritize current students and offer flexible hours, typically 10-15 hours per week. Pay rates start from the UK National Living Wage of £11.44 per hour (as of 2024) and can go up to £13-15 for skilled roles.

• Student Ambassadors: Represent BU at open days, campus tours, and events. Involves public speaking and engaging with prospective students. Great for building confidence and networking. Average pay: £11.50-£12.50/hour.
• Library Assistants: Help at the Fusebox Library or Talbot Campus Library with shelving books, customer service, and IT support. Suited for organized students. Average pay: £11.44-£12/hour.
• Catering and Retail Staff: Work in university cafes, shops, or the Students' Union bar. Roles include barista, cashier, or kitchen helper. Peak times during lunch and evenings. Average pay: £11.50-£13/hour, plus tips in some cases.
• Research Assistants: Support academic staff in departments like media, business, or sciences. Involves data entry, literature reviews, or lab work. Ideal for students in relevant fields. Pay: £12-£15/hour.
• Administrative Support: Assist in departments with filing, reception duties, or event setup. Entry-level and flexible. Average pay: £11.44/hour.

To apply for on-campus jobs, check the BU Jobs portal on the student intranet or visit the Students' Union employment board. Many roles are advertised at the start of each term.

Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs in Bournemouth

Bournemouth's economy thrives on tourism, retail, and hospitality, providing plentiful opportunities for BU students. The town center, beaches, and proximity to Poole and Southampton mean jobs are within easy reach via bus or bike. Expect similar hour restrictions for international students, with shifts often in evenings or weekends to avoid clashing with lectures.

Popular sectors include:

• Hospitality and Tourism: Waitstaff, hotel receptionists, or tour guides at local attractions like the Bournemouth Air Festival or beaches. High demand in summer. Average pay: £11-£13/hour plus tips.
• Retail: Sales assistants in shops at the Bournemouth Town Centre or Castlepoint Shopping Centre. Brands like Primark, H&M, or local boutiques hire seasonally. Average pay: £11.44-£12.50/hour.
• Creative and Media Roles: Given BU's reputation in film, animation, and digital media, freelance gigs like video editing assistants or social media interns at local agencies. Pay varies: £12-£18/hour for skilled work.
• Childcare and Tutoring: Babysitting via apps like Childcare.co.uk or tutoring school pupils in subjects like maths or English. Flexible and home-based options. Average pay: £12-£20/hour.
• Delivery and Gig Economy: Drivers for Deliveroo, Uber Eats, or Amazon Flex. Requires a bike or car; great for independent workers. Earnings: £10-£15/hour including tips.

For off-campus searches, use platforms like Indeed, StudentJob UK, or Reed. Local agencies such as Reed in Partnership often list student-friendly roles. Networking at BU career fairs can uncover hidden opportunities with local businesses partnered with the university.

Benefits of Part-Time Work

Securing a part-time job at BU enhances your university experience beyond finances. It fosters independence, improves CVs with relevant experience, and can lead to full-time offers post-graduation. Many roles offer perks like free meals, staff discounts, or travel subsidies. Importantly, the university's Student Employability Programme provides workshops on CV writing and interview skills tailored for part-time applications.

How to Find and Apply for Jobs

1. Register with BU Careers Centre: Access exclusive listings and CV reviews.
2. Use Online Portals: BU's MyCareerHub, LinkedIn, and local sites like Bournemouth Echo jobs section.
3. Attend Fairs and Events: BU hosts termly job fairs with on-campus and local employers.
4. Prepare Documents: Update your CV to highlight transferable skills from studies, and prepare for interviews emphasizing your student status.
5. Check Visa Rules: International students must comply with UKVI guidelines to avoid issues.

Tips for Balancing Work and Studies

Maintaining a healthy balance is crucial. Aim for jobs with shift patterns that align with your timetable—use BU's online planner to check. Prioritize academics; if work affects grades, reduce hours. Join student support groups for advice on workload management. Remember, the average BU student works 12-15 hours weekly without impacting performance.

Job Type	Location	Avg. Hours/Week	Avg. Pay/Hour
Student Ambassador	On-Campus	10-12	£11.50-£12.50
Retail Assistant	Off-Campus	12-16	£11.44-£12.50
Hospitality Staff	Off-Campus	15-20	£11-£13 + tips
Tutoring	Flexible	8-10	£12-£20

In summary, part-time jobs at Bournemouth University are abundant and supportive of student life. By leveraging university resources and local opportunities, you can gain financial stability and professional growth. Start exploring today to find a role that fits your lifestyle.