Part-Time Job Opportunities at the University of the West of England (UWE)

Balancing studies with work is a common challenge for students at UWE, but part-time jobs offer a fantastic way to gain valuable experience, earn extra income, and build your CV while studying. Located in Bristol, UWE provides a range of on-campus and local opportunities tailored to student schedules. Whether you're looking for flexible hours or skill-building roles, there's something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore available jobs, benefits, and how to get started.

Benefits of Part-Time Work for UWE Students

Engaging in part-time work during your time at UWE can transform your university experience. Here are some key advantages:

• Financial Support: Earn money to cover living costs, tuition fees, or social activities without relying solely on loans or family support.
• Skill Development: Build transferable skills like time management, communication, and teamwork, which are essential for future careers.
• Networking: Connect with professionals and peers, potentially leading to internships or full-time roles post-graduation.
• Work-Study Balance: Many roles are designed around academic timetables, helping you maintain focus on your degree.
• Enhanced CV: Real-world experience makes you stand out to employers, especially in competitive job markets.

For international students, note that UK visa rules allow up to 20 hours of work per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Always check with UWE's International Office for compliance.

On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

UWE offers numerous positions right on campus, making it easy to work without long commutes. These roles often prioritize current students and provide a supportive environment. Common opportunities include:

Job Role	Description	Typical Hours	Pay Range (per hour)
Student Ambassador	Represent UWE at open days, tours, and events; share your experiences with prospective students.	Flexible, 4-10 hours/week	£10-£12
Library Assistant	Help with shelving books, customer service at the help desk, and basic IT support in the library.	Evenings/weekends, up to 15 hours/week	£9.50-£11
Catering and Bar Staff	Work in campus cafes, bars, or events; roles involve serving food, drinks, and event setup.	Shifts around classes, 10-20 hours/week	£10-£13 (tips may apply)
Research Assistant	Support academic staff with data entry, literature reviews, or lab tasks in your field of study.	Project-based, 5-15 hours/week	£11-£14
Campus Receptionist	Greet visitors, answer queries, and handle administrative tasks at faculty buildings.	Part-time shifts, 8-12 hours/week	£9-£11

These jobs are advertised through UWE's internal portals and often require a quick application process. Perks might include free meals, discounted gym access, or priority for future roles.

Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs in Bristol

Bristol's vibrant economy means plenty of opportunities beyond campus. The city's proximity to UWE's Frenchay and City campuses makes commuting straightforward via bus or bike. Popular sectors include:

• Retail and Customer Service: Shops in Bristol city centre (e.g., Cabot Circus) hire for sales assistants and cashiers. Expect £9-£11 per hour with weekend shifts.
• Hospitality: Bars, restaurants, and cafes around areas like Clifton or Stokes Croft seek waitstaff and baristas. Flexible evening hours suit students, paying £10-£12 plus tips.
• Freelance and Gig Economy: Platforms like Deliveroo or Uber offer delivery roles on bikes or cars, earning £8-£15 per hour based on demand.
• Tutoring and Childcare: If you're strong in a subject, tutor school pupils or babysit via local ads. Rates can reach £15-£20 per hour.
• Administrative Roles: Small businesses or charities in Bristol need part-time admins for filing and emails, often £10-£12 per hour.

Transport links are excellent, with UWE students eligible for discounted bus passes through the Student Union.

How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Jobs

Securing a job starts with the right resources. UWE's Careers and Enterprise service is your go-to hub:

1. Visit the Careers Portal: Log into the UWE Careers website for job listings, workshops, and CV clinics.
2. Student Union Job Board: Check noticeboards and online forums for casual gigs posted by fellow students or staff.
3. External Sites: Use Indeed, StudentJob UK, or Reed for Bristol-specific searches. Set alerts for "part-time student jobs Bristol."
4. Networking Events: Attend UWE career fairs or employer talks to make direct connections.
5. Prepare Your Application: Tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills—keep it to one page. Practice interviews with UWE's mock sessions.

Tip: Start applying early in the academic year, as roles fill quickly. Always disclose your student status to ensure flexible hours.

Tips for Balancing Work and Studies

To thrive, prioritize your degree:

• Limit work to 15-20 hours/week to avoid burnout.
• Use a planner to schedule shifts around lectures and deadlines.
• Seek roles that align with your course, like media jobs for journalism students.
• Monitor your wellbeing—UWE offers counseling if work affects your studies.
• Review progress quarterly; adjust hours if grades slip.

Part-time work at UWE isn't just about income—it's a stepping stone to your future. Explore these opportunities to enrich your university journey and emerge more employable. For personalized advice, contact the Careers team at careers@uwe.ac.uk.