What’s a good starting wage?
Let’s start with the minimum wage for different age groups. In your teams (3-5), discuss and write down what you think the minimum hourly rate and annual wage is for each age group.
Some boxes are filled in already to get you started. Annual wages are based on a 35-hour working week.
| Age | Minimum hourly rate | Annual wage |
|---|---|---|
| 16–17 | — | — |
| 18–20 | £10.85 | £19,747 |
| 21+ | — | — |
| Year 1 apprentice (regardless of age) | — | — |
| Year 2 apprentice | £8.00 (if 17 or 18) / £10.85 (if 19 or 20) / £12.71 (if 21+) | — |
Team discussion
Compare your guesses and agree on an answer for each blank box before looking at the answers.
Reveal the minimum wage answers
| Age | Minimum hourly rate | Annual wage |
|---|---|---|
| 16–17 | £8.00 | £14,560 |
| 18–20 | £10.85 | £19,747 |
| 21+ | £12.71 | £23,132 |
| Year 1 apprentice (regardless of age) | £8.00 | £14,560 |
| Year 2 apprentice | £8.00 (if 17 or 18) / £10.85 (if 19 or 20) / £12.71 (if 21+) | £14,560 / £19,747 / £23,132 |
Figures reproduced from your supplied slides, not independently verified as current wage rates.
Does every employer pay the minimum?
Some first jobs will pay more (say £25–30k+).
Certain jobs in some industries, such as technology, might start on more.
You can have a look around for yourself in your own time.
This gives you an idea of where you might start when it comes to wages.
Introduction
Activity 2