A recent study has unveiled the ten lowest-paid industries in the UK, providing valuable insights for school leavers contemplating their future career paths. The analysis, conducted by Qualified Teachers for Tuition, examined data from July 2024 from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) concerning average weekly earnings across various sectors.
Topping the list as the lowest-paid industry is Accommodation and Food Service Activities, with average weekly earnings of just £329. This sector encompasses a range of roles, including bartenders, concierges, and housekeeping staff, making it a popular choice for school leavers seeking immediate employment.
Following closely in second place is the Retail Trade and Repairs industry, where workers earn an average of £439 per week. Career opportunities in this sector include sales associates, home appliance repairers, and inventory specialists, appealing to those interested in customer service and sales.
The third lowest-paid industry is Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing, offering an average weekly wage of £497. Roles such as livestock handlers, arborists, and fishermen are part of this sector, which can provide outdoor job opportunities for individuals with a passion for nature.
Other Service Activities ranks fourth, with average earnings of £515 per week. This sector includes careers like hairdressers, tutors, and social workers, catering to those interested in helping others and offering personal services.
In fifth place is Manufacturing—Textiles, Leather, and Clothing, with average weekly earnings of £532. Careers in this industry include weavers, textile designers, and leather craftsmen, appealing to creative individuals interested in production and design.
The Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation sector ranks sixth, with average weekly earnings of £534. This diverse industry offers roles such as musicians, fitness trainers, tour guides, and actors, attracting those with artistic inclinations.
Seventh on the list is the Education sector, which has average weekly earnings of £567. Potential careers include teachers, admissions officers, and librarians, making this sector an attractive option for those passionate about learning and development.
Health and Social Work is the eighth lowest-paid industry, with average weekly earnings of £573. This vital sector includes popular careers such as nurses, physical therapists, and mental health counsellors, offering rewarding work for those interested in healthcare and social support.
Ninth is Administrative and Support Service Activities, reporting average weekly earnings of £605. Careers in this sector encompass data entry clerks, receptionists, and payroll specialists, appealing to individuals looking for stable office jobs.
| Rank | Industry | Average Weekly Earnings (£) |
| 1 | Accommodation and Food Service Activities | 329 |
| 2 | Retail Trade and Repairs | 439 |
| 3 | Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing | 497 |
| 4 | Other Service Activities | 515 |
| 5 | Manufacturing – Textiles, Leather and Clothing | 532 |
| 6 | Arts, Entertainment and Recreation | 534 |
| 7 | Education | 567 |
| 8 | Health and Social Work | 573 |
| 9 | Administrative and Support Service Activities | 605 |
| 10 | Manufacturing – Food, Beverages and Tobacco | 660 |
Finally, Manufacturing—Food, Beverages, and Tobacco takes the tenth spot, with average weekly earnings of £660. This industry provides roles such as brewmaster, food scientist, and machine operator, suitable for those interested in food production and processing.
On the other end of the earnings spectrum, Financial and Insurance Activities emerges as the highest-paid industry in the UK, with average weekly earnings of £1,361.
Gillian Dixon, CEO of Teachers To Your Home, emphasised the importance of informed career choices for school leavers. She stated, “Choosing an industry to work in after leaving school is a daunting task. It’s essential for students to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each industry to make informed decisions about their future.”
Dixon added, “The UK offers a wide range of career paths, and it is crucial to help school leavers understand which industry may suit them best in the long term.”