A. The basic starting point is that the National Minimum Wage (NMW) applies to all workers. As from 1 October 2004 the NMW is 4.85 per hour for workers over 21, though that is set to rise to 5.05 in October 2005 and to 5.35 next year. The rate for workers aged between 18 and 21 is Pounds 4.10, but that too will rise next October, to 4.25. For workers under 18 the minimum hourly rate is 3, and the Government has said that there will be no change to this rate next year.
However, students who are doing work experience as part of a higher education course, where the placement is for a year or less, are not entitled to receive the national minimum wage.
This exemption does not apply where a student is simply working to fund their studies or working during a 'gap year' between school and higher education. In both these cases, the national minimum wage applies.
* The advice given in this column is for guidance only. Nursery World readers should not place reliance upon it or take action without obtaining further advice relating to their specific and individual circumstances.
Contacts
Christine Betts
* Veale Wasbrough Lawyers, Orchard Court, Orchard Lane, Bristol BS1 5WS, tel: 0117 925 2020, fax: 0117 925 2025, e-mail: cbetts@vwl.co.uk, website: www.vwl.co.uk
Nursery World
* If you have a question that you would like answered, write to Nursery World, 66-68 East Smithfield, London E1W 1BX, fax: 020 7782 3131 or e-mail: ruth.thomson@nurseryworld.co.uk. All letters will be treated in the strictest confidence but only published questions will be answered.
