At Leeds Arts University, pursuing a creative degree doesn't mean putting your financial independence on hold. Part-time jobs offer students a fantastic way to gain practical experience, build skills, and earn money while immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Leeds. Whether you're studying fine art, graphic design, fashion, or animation, the university and surrounding city provide diverse opportunities tailored to flexible schedules. These roles not only help cover living costs but also enhance your portfolio and professional network in the creative industries.

On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

Leeds Arts University prioritizes its students by offering a range of on-campus positions. These jobs are convenient, allowing you to work close to lectures and studios, and often align with the university's creative ethos. Common roles include:

• Library Assistants: Help manage resources in the specialized arts library, shelving books, assisting with digital archives, and supporting research queries. Ideal for organized students passionate about art history or design reference materials. Shifts are typically 10-15 hours per week, paying around £9-£11 per hour.
• Student Ambassadors: Represent the university at open days, campus tours, and events. This role involves public speaking and showcasing student life, perfect for outgoing creatives. Earnings are £10-£12 per hour, with flexible weekend and evening slots.
• Workshop Technicians: Support in art studios by preparing materials, maintaining equipment, and aiding peer projects. Suited to hands-on students in sculpture or textiles. Pay starts at £10 per hour, with opportunities for skill-building in technical arts.
• Café and Retail Staff: Work in the on-campus café or university shop, handling customer service and stock management with an artistic twist—think promoting student-made merchandise. Flexible hours around £9.50 per hour.
• Administrative Support: Assist in departments like admissions or student services with data entry and event coordination. Great for detail-oriented students, offering £9-£10 per hour.

These positions are advertised through the university's student portal and careers service. Priority is often given to current students, and many roles require no prior experience, just enthusiasm and reliability.

Off-Campus Opportunities in Leeds

Leeds is a bustling creative hub, home to galleries, theaters, and design studios, making it an ideal spot for off-campus part-time work. The city's public transport links the university to central areas easily, so commuting is straightforward. Popular options for arts students include:

• Freelance Creative Gigs: Platforms like Upwork or local Facebook groups often list short-term illustration, photography, or graphic design tasks. Rates vary from £15-£30 per project, allowing you to build a freelance portfolio.
• Retail in Arts Venues: Jobs at places like the Leeds Art Gallery or independent boutiques in the Northern Quarter. Roles involve sales, merchandising, and customer engagement, paying £9-£11 per hour. Evening and weekend shifts fit student timetables.
• Event and Festival Staff: Seasonal work at events like Leeds Festival or Light Night, handling setup, ticketing, or artist support. Pay can reach £12 per hour, with networking bonuses in the arts community.
• Tutoring or Workshop Leading: Offer sessions in drawing, digital media, or crafts through community centers or apps like Tutorful. Experienced students can earn £15-£25 per hour.
• Hospitality with a Creative Edge: Barista or server roles at trendy cafés like those in the Calls area, where artistic presentation is key. Starting at £9.50 per hour plus tips.

To find these, check sites like Indeed, StudentJob UK, or the Leeds City Council jobs board. Local arts networks, such as Leeds Creative Network, also post opportunities.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Securing a part-time job starts with preparation. Update your CV to highlight creative skills, even from university projects—think "Designed promotional materials for student exhibition, reaching 500 visitors." Tailor applications to show how your arts background adds value.

1. Register with the Careers Service: Leeds Arts University's dedicated team offers CV workshops, mock interviews, and job alerts. Drop-in sessions are held weekly.
2. Use Online Portals: The university's Handshake platform connects you to exclusive listings. For off-campus, apps like Reed or Gumtree are handy.
3. Network Actively: Attend career fairs, join student societies like the Arts Employability Group, and connect on LinkedIn with alumni in creative fields.
4. Apply Early and Follow Up: Submit applications promptly and send polite follow-up emails. For on-campus roles, internal emails to department heads work well.

Visa restrictions apply for international students: you're limited to 20 hours per week during term time under UKVI rules. Always check eligibility.

Balancing Work, Studies, and Well-Being

Part-time work should complement, not overwhelm, your studies. Aim for 10-20 hours weekly to maintain focus on assignments and exhibitions. The university's Student Wellbeing team provides advice on time management, including tools like the Study Smart Planner.

Benefits extend beyond pay: gain transferable skills like teamwork and deadlines, boost confidence, and explore career paths. Many graduates credit part-time roles for launching their professional journeys.

Quick Comparison of Job Types

Type	Location	Hours/Week	Pay Range	Skills Gained
On-Campus (e.g., Ambassador)	University	5-15	£10-£12	Communication, Leadership
Off-Campus (e.g., Retail)	City Center	10-20	£9-£11	Customer Service, Sales
Freelance Creative	Remote/Flexible	Variable	£15-£30/project	Portfolio Building, Independence

In summary, Leeds Arts University equips you with resources to thrive in part-time work, fostering both financial stability and creative growth. Start exploring today—your next opportunity could be just a application away.