Part-Time Job Opportunities at Kingston University

Balancing studies and work is a common challenge for students at Kingston University, but part-time jobs offer an excellent way to gain experience, earn money, and build your CV. Located in the vibrant town of Kingston upon Thames, the university provides a range of on-campus and local opportunities tailored to student schedules. Whether you're looking for flexible hours or roles that align with your field of study, Kingston University supports you in finding the right fit. This guide explores available positions, benefits, and tips to help you succeed.

Benefits of Part-Time Work for Kingston University Students

Engaging in part-time employment while studying has numerous advantages. It not only helps cover living expenses but also develops essential skills like time management and communication. According to the Kingston University Careers and Employability Service, over 60% of students who work part-time report improved academic performance due to better organization skills.

• Financial Independence: Earn £8-£12 per hour on average, helping with tuition fees, rent, or leisure activities.
• Skill Development: Gain practical experience in customer service, teamwork, or specialized fields like media or business.
• Networking: Connect with professionals and alumni, boosting your future career prospects.
• Flexibility: Many roles accommodate lecture timetables, especially during term time (up to 20 hours per week for international students).

International students on a Tier 4 visa must adhere to UKVI regulations, limiting work to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.

On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

Kingston University offers convenient on-campus roles through its departments and student union. These jobs are ideal for minimizing commute time and integrating work seamlessly into your day.

Job Type	Description	Hours/Requirements	Pay Range
Library Assistant	Shelving books, helping with queries, and supporting study sessions.	10-15 hours/week; basic IT skills.	£9.50-£10.50/hour
Student Ambassador	Guiding tours, attending open days, and promoting the university.	Flexible, event-based; outgoing personality.	£10-£11/hour
Catering and Retail Staff	Working in cafes, bars, or the bookshop; serving food or handling sales.	Evenings/weekends; customer service experience preferred.	£9-£12/hour
Research Assistant	Supporting faculty projects in areas like engineering or arts.	5-10 hours/week; relevant course background.	£10.50-£13/hour

To apply for on-campus jobs, check the university's internal job portal via the Student Portal or visit the Careers Service in the Penrhyn Road campus.

Off-Campus Part-Time Opportunities

Kingston's location near London opens doors to diverse local jobs in retail, hospitality, and creative industries. The town center and nearby Richmond offer bustling high streets with constant vacancies.

• Retail and Sales: Positions at stores like Marks & Spencer or independent shops; roles include stock management and cashier duties. Expect 12-20 hours/week.
• Hospitality: Barista or waiter jobs at cafes and restaurants along the Thames; tips can boost earnings to £11-£14/hour equivalent.
• Tutoring and Freelance: Leverage your expertise by tutoring school students or freelancing in design/journalism via platforms like Indeed or Gumtree.
• Seasonal Work: During holidays, opportunities in events or delivery services (e.g., Amazon Flex) provide higher hourly rates up to £15.

Popular sites for off-campus searches include StudentJob UK, Reed, and LinkedIn. Always verify employers to ensure legitimate opportunities.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Start by registering with the Kingston University Careers and Employability Service, which offers free CV workshops and job-matching events. Attend career fairs held twice a year, where employers like local councils and tech firms recruit directly.

1. Update Your CV: Highlight transferable skills from your course, such as analytical thinking for business students.
2. Search Actively: Use the university's Careers website and apps like Indeed for alerts.
3. Network: Join student societies like the Entrepreneurship Society for job leads.
4. Interview Prep: Practice common questions; emphasize your ability to juggle studies and work.
5. Legal Checks: Ensure roles comply with your visa if applicable, and get a National Insurance number if needed.

Balancing Part-Time Work with Studies

Maintaining a healthy balance is crucial to avoid burnout. The university recommends no more than 15-20 hours of work per week. Use tools like the student planner app to schedule shifts around deadlines.

Tips for Success:

• Prioritize assignments and attend all lectures.
• Choose jobs with flexible rotas, like evening shifts post-lectures.
• Seek advice from academic advisors if work impacts grades.
• Take advantage of wellbeing services for stress management.

Many Kingston alumni credit part-time roles for their post-graduation success, from securing internships to full-time offers. By starting early, you can turn these opportunities into stepping stones for your career. For personalized support, contact the Careers team at careers@kingston.ac.uk or drop into their office.

With Kingston's supportive environment and proximity to employment hubs, part-time work is more accessible than ever. Explore these options to enhance your university experience!