Child Performance Regulation Guideline

A reference guide to working hours, breaks and licensing requirements for child performers in the UK.

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	AGE 0–4	AGE 5–8	AGE 9 & OVER
Maximum number of hours at place of performance or rehearsal (Reg.22)	5 hours	8 hours	9.5 hours
Earliest and latest permitted times at place of performance or rehearsal (Reg.21)	7am to 10pm	7am to 11pm	7am to 11pm
Maximum period of continuous performance or rehearsal (Reg.22)	30 minutes	2.5 hours	2.5 hours
Maximum total hours of performance or rehearsal (Reg.22)	2 hours	3 hours	5 hours
Minimum intervals for meals and rest (Reg.23)	Any breaks must be for a minimum of 15 minutes. If at the place of performance or rehearsal for more than 4 hours, breaks must include at least one 45 minute meal break.	If present for more than 4 hours but less than 8 hours: one 45 minute meal break and at least one 15 minute break. If present for 8 hours or more: the breaks above plus another 15 minute break.	If present for more than 4 hours but less than 8 hours: one 45 minute meal break and at least one 15 minute break. If present for 8 hours or more: the breaks above plus another 15 minute break.
Education (Reg.13)	N/A	3 hours per day (max 5). 15 hours per week on school days. Minimum of 6 hours in a week if aggregating over 4 weeks or less.	3 hours per day (max 5). 15 hours per week on school days. Minimum of 6 hours in a week if aggregating over 4 weeks or less.
Minimum break between performances (Reg.23)	1 hour 30 minutes	1 hour 30 minutes	1 hour 30 minutes
Maximum consecutive days to take part in performance or rehearsal (Reg.26)	6 days	6 days	6 days
Note: Local authorities may further restrict permitted hours, breaks and conditions if this is in the best interests of the child (see Regulation 5). Licence Information A child performance licence is required for children of compulsory school age or younger when working in the entertainment industry. You only require a licence when your child is confirmed for a job. A licence is valid for one job only and must be repeated for each booking. The agency, together with the client, completes this process for you. Current legislation typically requires 21 days notice. Some councils may process a licence within 5–10 working days (or sooner), but this is at the council’s discretion. The items below are required for each application: Part 1 of licence application form (client to complete) Part 2 of licence application form (parent to complete) * Signed self certified medical declaration (parent to complete) * School letter from the head teacher to authorise absence from school (parent to obtain once booked) 2x passport photographs (agency provides) Copy of birth certificate or passport (parent to provide) * * Starred items above can be uploaded to your agency profile when registering so they’re ready to use. Don’t worry — we’re here to help with forms and can apply on your behalf. Helpful Links Establish which is your local authority: Apply for a child performance licence More information on child employment and performance licences: Performance licences for children The 2014 legislation: The Children (Performances and Activities) (England) Regulations 2014 National Network for Child Employment & Entertainment: NNC E&E Government guidance: Child performance and activities licensing legislation Please get in touch if you require assistance, or more information.