Cool Summer Jobs for London Students | Beat the heat

Looking for summer jobs in London that actually fit your student lifestyle? You’re in the right place, let’s explore jobs that are not only flexible and fun but can also help you gain real-world experience (and cash) while staying cool during the warmer months.

Did You Know? According to The Times UK, graduate job listings in the UK have dropped by 67% since 2019. That means getting hands-on experience before you graduate isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. And for students in London, summer jobs are one of the best ways to stand out and gain confidence in the workplace.

Whether you want to try something new, work flexible hours, or just earn some money over the break, there’s a long list of summer jobs in London for students that make sense for your schedule.

Why Summer Jobs Matter More Than Ever

Let’s face it, being a student isn’t cheap. Between rising tuition costs and living expenses in London, many students are turning to part-time or temporary work to fill the gap. But it’s not just about money. 

Here’s what a summer job can offer you: 

• Work experience that looks great on your CV 

• Communication and time-management skills you can use in any job 

• Professional connections that may lead to future opportunities 

• A break from coursework with something different and productive 

Cool and Easy-to-Get Summer Jobs for London Students

Let’s break down some of the most common and student-friendly jobs you’ll find during the summer season. These self improvement jobs you can actually enjoy, and most don’t require a ton of experience to get started. 

Retail Assistant Roles

Retail jobs are perfect if you're good with people and don’t mind being on your feet. Shops are always looking for part-time help in the summer, especially in busy areas like Oxford Street, Westfield, or Camden Market. 

Common Roles: Sales Assistant, Stockroom Organiser, Cashier 

“Retail helped me feel more confident when talking to people. I was shy before, but after working weekends at a local clothing store, I learned how to speak up and be more helpful.”  

Hospitality & Food Service Jobs

Restaurants, cafés, and bars are buzzing in summer, and many need temporary staff. You don’t need loads of experience, just a good attitude and the ability to stay calm under pressure. 

Common Roles: Barista, Waiter/Waitress, Kitchen Assistant 

Perks: Tips can boost your income, Great for learning fast-paced teamwork, Evening shifts leave your days free 

Event and Festival Jobs 

London is full of events in the summer, from music festivals and sports matches to cultural fairs. If you like being outdoors and around people, this one’s for you. 

Example Roles: Usher or ticketing assistant, Event setup crew, Merchandise seller 

Admin and Office Support Roles 

Admin roles are more structured and may suit those looking for something quieter or indoors (great for heatwaves!). 

Common Titles: Office Assistant, Receptionist, Data Entry Clerk 

Benefits: Improves organisational skills, Daytime hours only, Air-conditioned offices are a major plus! 

Tutoring and Academic Support 

If you're good in a subject like maths, science, or English, tutoring is a great way to earn extra income. You can work in person or online, totally up to you. 

Why students love it: 

• High hourly pay (usually £15+) 

• Looks great on academic CVs 

• Flexible timing 

Real Talk: How to Find These Jobs Easily

Finding London student summer jobs isn’t as hard as it seems when you know where to look. 

Start with Trusted Platforms: 

Use job search platforms that are built for students and young job seekers. VocationWizard.jobs lets you search for temporary jobs in London without needing to upload your CV. They even let you apply directly through the employer’s page. 

Don’t Ignore Local Listings: 

• Check community noticeboards at your uni or local cafés 

• Follow local Facebook groups for student work 

• Keep an eye on short-term job fairs near your area 

Be Ready to Apply Fast: 

Summer jobs go quickly, especially once exams end. Have a simple CV ready and be quick to respond to job ads london. 

Add These To Your CV - They Matter! 

Even if your summer job seems “basic,” the skills you pick up are gold for future roles: 

• Retail: Handling money, multitasking, dealing with people 

• Hospitality: Time management, teamwork, customer service 

• Events: Problem-solving, being proactive, and quick thinking 

• Admin: Attention to detail, basic tech skills, communication 

• Tutoring: Leadership, explaining ideas clearly, and patience 

These jobs teach things no lecture can, and employers take notice. 

Make Your Summer Count 

Whether you want to earn extra money, boost your CV, or just try something different, there’s no shortage of summer jobs in London for students. With so many industries looking for short-term help, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the options out there. 

You don’t need to have a five-year plan. You just need to take one step that gets you closer to real-world experience. Keep it simple, apply early, and don’t wait around for the “perfect” job. Start somewhere, learn something, and build from there. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What’s the best summer job for university students in London? 

It depends on what you're looking for. If you want flexibility, go for hospitality or events. If you want to boost your CV, try admin or tutoring. 

Q2: Do I need experience to get a summer job? 

Not always. Many roles look for enthusiasm and reliability more than experience, especially in retail or food service. 

Q3: How can I apply if I don’t have a CV? 

Websites like VocationWizard.jobs let you apply without uploading your CV. Just create a basic account and apply directly to roles. 

Q4: Can international students work summer jobs in the UK?

Yes, as long as your student visa allows it. Most UK student visas let you work up to 20 hours a week during term time, and full-time during breaks.