Emma Lynch (16) is a transition year student in Crescent College Comprehensive in Limerick city. She works at the weekend and occasionally during the week at Dooradoyle leisure centre.

"My job is to check the dressing rooms, the gym and the pool, and make sure everything is clean and running properly. I also test the pool water for chlorine and sometimes look after reception.

"I love working there; the people are lovely and the members are very friendly. It's easy money.

"I earn €5.59 per hour and usually work one six-hour shift at the weekend. If they need cover during the week, I might do the odd evening as well."

Emma lodges her pay cheque into her bank account every week and withdraws money with her ATM card when she needs it.

"I'm trying to save at the moment for a couple of school trips that are coming up. I pay for most bits and pieces myself but my parents still give me money from time to time."

In the summer she plans to work more or less full-time and will probably look for another job because she doesn't expect she would get enough hours at the leisure centre.

"A lot of people in my class are working during term time, I'd say about two-thirds. Some help out in their parents' shops. The ones that don't work are generally those living in the country."

Emma expects to continue working at the weekends in fifth year and sixth year but she's not sure.

"My friends in fifth year say it's a huge jump and a lot of work. I'll see how it goes."