Pub Work UK FAQs
Price from:
Program Fee $495
FAQs
Essential Extras
ELIGIBILITY
Who is eligible to apply?
- You must be able to work legally in the UK
- Customer service experience of any form is an advantage
- You need to be over 19
You must be at least 19 years of age to work at the pubs, as the pub owners prefer to have participants who have worked full time for a while, or have at least spent time living away from home. This is just to make sure that you are prepared for the experience so you can make the most of your working holiday. Any questions? Just ask us!
VISAS
Do I need a visa?
The Working Holidaymaker Scheme is an arrangement where a person aged between 17 and 30 can go to the UK for an extended holiday of up to two years. You can work but only if this is not the main reason for your stay. Holidaying should be the main reason for your stay. The UK Working Holiday Permit currently costs AUD $477. For all information on the UK Working Holiday Visa go to www.britaus.net. Alternatively OWH can organise your visa as part of the UK Work Visa Pack. You must apply and enter the UK before you turn 31. Alternatively, those who are eligible may want to apply for an Ancestral Visa. If your Parents or Grandparents were born in the UK and you are over 17 years of age you can apply for this type of Working Visa. This allows you to stay in the UK for up to 5 years and work. You will have to supply proof of their birth certificates. Please check with the UK Consulate.
BEFORE YOU GO
How long can you work for?
Employment is normally for a minimum of 3 months, but longer placements can be arranged with the pubs owner and in many cases are preferred. Once you've finished your initial three months placement, it is up to you and your employer to work out your arrangements. Many people stay for longer and some even head off to travel and then come back for another stint. The choice is yours! Our partner on the ground can arrange a further placement for a nominal local fee if you want to travel and return to a new job.
Do I need bar experience?
No. On the job training is provided for you. This is one reason there is a minimum requirement of 3 months, as the pubs train you for the first few weeks of your placement. You will not require a RSA certificate.
When will I find out that I have a job?
Once your application has been received we will contact you to arrange full payment and then your interview will be arranged (typically by phone). If you are successful you will receive details of your job placement approx 5 - 10 days prior to your pub start date.
What if I travel before I work?
Lots of people do other programs, tours and travelling before arriving in the UK to start work. This is not a problem you just need to put the date that you wish to start working on your application form. If you are already overseas when your placement comes through we just need to have an email address we can contact you on to confirm the position. Easy!
ON THE JOB
What will the job entail?
The jobs are front of house' which means bar and restaurant. You'll get to do both, so don't worry if you don't have experience, as you'll be trained on the job. Other roles are available if you have supervisory or kitchen skills. Working 40-48 hours per week over 5 day's is typical and you can request holiday time and days off with your pub manager.
Where are the pubs located?
All pubs are in the UK - primarily located in more rural locations or the outskirts of the cities.
How much is the pay?
You can earn from 120 to 180 pounds net per week (after tax and deductions) for a 40-hour week, depending on the pub that you are placed at. Most pubs will charge approx 40 GBP for accommodation and offer a free meal per day, this will be deducted from your wages.
What are the pubs like?
They are all stylish venues, with relaxed atmospheres, informal dining and pub bars. Most are traditional buildings that have been modernised. They are busy and exciting places to work. The staff and locals are friendly.
What about accommodation and meals?
Nearly all pubs in the UK charge to live in. Free accommodation usually means deductions have already been made from your wages. The pubs we place you at only charge about 40 pounds per week which usually includes laundry facilities, all utilities and at least one cooked meal per day.
It is rare that you would be in a single room but usually you only have to share with one other person. Couples generally have their own room to share. Depending on the establishment, meals will be offered at the discretion of the manager, however, you can be assured of at least one main meal per day. Confirmation of these details will be provided upon placement. In addition, kitchen and clothes washing facilities may be available.
What happens upon arrival?
You will be given full directions to your pub prior to arrival. All pubs are located close to an airport or train station and your manager will know when to expect you. You will have time to settle in and are not expected to start work for at least two days, to recover from the jetlag. All details including full directions to the pub from the airport, location, manager's contact name and phone numbers and what is included with your position will be provided to you.
Can I work in the same pubs as my friend/partner?
Yes, often travellers come in two's and pub managers are happy with this.
If you are travelling in groups of four of more we would recommend at least two separate pubs. Many of our pubs are quite close together so if 2 work at one pub and 2 work at another, you will have a better chance of booking your time off together.
GETTING STARTED
Who are you looking for?
ADAPTABLE: people who are happy to adapt to any environment and try any role that comes their way.
FRIENDLY: someone who will be willing to have a chat with the locals, and have a smile on their face, no matter how busy the pub gets!
ANY EXPERIENCE: although experience is not essential, it is a bonus. You do need to have customer service experience of some kind, however, on the job training is provided.
How long before I depart do I need to apply?
We recommend that you give us a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks notice to find work for you, however, the longer we have your application the more employers are going to see it.
Can you help me with flights?
Absolutely! As part of Flight Centre Ltd, we have access to fantastic working holiday airfares and insurance options. In fact, we can help you with all your travel needs including accommodation, tours, travel advice - whatever you need!
Can you book my travel before I leave Australia?
Absolutely, we can book anything from a Contiki or Top Deck Tour to a Busabout or Rail ticket before you leave Australia. This means you can take advantage of the Aussie dollar and not worry about saving for travel whilst working in the UK. Just speak to your consultant who will be able to offer great ideas.
How do I book?
Just send in your complete application, 2 passport size photos and 1 full length photo, a current CV with contact details for 2 references and your $495 program fee.
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