Top Term Time Only Jobs for Parents

mum working from home with child
As a parents, we know that juggling work and family responsibilities can be a real juggling act, especially if you’re just returning to work after maternity leave. You want to be there for your little ones during school holidays and half terms, but you also need to earn money to look after them in the best way possible. Fear not! We've got you covered with our roundup of the top term time only jobs for parents, so you can have the best of both worlds.

Teaching Assistant

If you've got a passion for education and love being around kids, why not consider becoming a teaching assistant? You'll be supporting teachers in the classroom, helping with activities, and providing valuable one-on-one attention to pupils who may need a little extra support. Plus, you'll enjoy the same holidays as your children, which means quality time together.

If you’re looking to become a teaching assistant but don’t have any previous experience, there are a few ways you can go about it:
  • Complete a college course in childcare and education
  • Complete an internship or apprenticeship in something related to childcare
  • Volunteer at a school, after school club, or local scouts/brownies
  • Complete a teaching assistant course online
All of these approaches are good ways to get the relevant experience and get your foot in the door when applying to be a teaching assistant.

Supermarket Staff

Many supermarkets offer part-time positions during school hours, especially in roles like cashier, stock replenishment, or customer service. It's a great way to earn some money and be home in time to greet your little ones after school. Plus, you might even score some employee discounts!

With loads of supermarkets having seasonal student workers throughout the summer, it can also be much easier to get extended time off in the summer holidays than in other industries.

Freelance Work

Are you a talented writer, graphic designer, or coder? Embrace your creative side and go freelance! With the rise of remote work, you can find freelance opportunities that suit your skills and work around your kids' schedules much easier than in previous years.

Working on a freelance basis can be much easier to manage your workload than full-time roles, and you can even time it so you take on less work in the school holidays to spend more time with the little ones.

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Childminder

If you're a parent, you already have a wealth of experience in childcare. Why not put those skills to good use and become a childminder? Providing childcare for other families during term time allows you to be there for your own children during holidays, making it an ideal choice for many parents.

Registering as a childminder is a fairly simple process, but you will need to get registered with Ofsted first, which requires some training to have been done.

  1. Necessary Checks- You’ll have to get a DBS check and a Health Declaration Form
  2. Training- Childminder training and First Aid training 
  3. Apply to the Ofsted Register 
  4. Register for the right insurance and get HMRC registered
 

Pet Sitter/Dog Walker

Do you love animals? You could consider becoming a pet sitter for a flexible job that can work around your availability! Many pet owners need someone to take care of their furry friends while they're at work or on holiday, which tends to be during the day while your little one is at nursery or school. It's a flexible and rewarding job that allows you to set your availability and rates. Plus, your kids will love having some furry playmates around if you pet sit from the comfort of your own home! 

Online Tutoring

With the rise of online learning, there's a growing demand for online tutors in various subjects. If you have expertise in a particular area and the relevant qualifications, you could share this knowledge with students who need a little extra help. You can set your hours, take on as many students as you can handle, and still have time for those school runs.

Plus, online tutoring means you can work without ever having to leave your living room!

Fitness Instructor

If you're passionate about fitness and enjoy helping others stay active, consider becoming a fitness instructor to fit around your little one’s. You can find part-time opportunities at local gyms or leisure centres. 

Not only will you get to stay in shape for free, preventing the need to add your own workout onto the end of the day, but you'll also inspire others to do the same!

Remember, finding the perfect term time only job is all about striking the right balance between earning an income and spending quality time with your family. Whatever job you choose, make sure it complements your family's needs and brings you joy.

If you’re still on maternity leave and trying to make a decision about going back to work, here are 8 ways to save money on maternity leave.
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