Planning a Gap Year
Why take time out?
To develop in maturity and confidence: trying new experiences, taking responsibility for your own finances, organising your time, making new friends and meeting people from different backgrounds all help to develop your independence, confidence and maturity, at any age.
To gain experience related to your intended career: this can be helpful for entry to relevant courses or training and may be essential for certain programmes, such as social work. There are opportunities for work experience in a range of settings, including in commerce or industry.
To earn money: you might want to work in order to save money to fund your time at university or start up your own business, for example.
To think things through: are you unsure about your long-term goals, or undecided whether university is for you? Trying various types of voluntary or paid work can help you work things out. If you choose to postpone entry to work, training or university (as opposed to arranging a definite, deferred-entry place) be careful not to miss application closing dates.
To give yourself breathing space: you may want a break before settling into work or starting a course. Many people who have studied or worked for years dream of taking time out to 'recharge their batteries' and gain a new perspective on life.
To fulfil some ambitions: perhaps you have always wanted to travel, spend time on an environmental project or have a working holiday? You could develop your underused talents, undertake a new challenge, give something back to a community or just have an adventure.
A year out before uni?
If you decide to take time out before university, check the application procedures. If you have already decided what course you want to do, you can apply for a deferred place – if you apply in your final year of A levels (or equivalent studies), the process can be completed before your gap year. You need to outline well-thought-out plans to show admissions tutors that you intend to use the time constructively. Always check their views on gap years. Whether applying through UCAS, or directly, make it very clear that you are applying for deferred entry.
If you don't want to commit yourself to a course before taking time out, apply to UCAS by December after the year you have left. The College can support you with your application. Remember, however, that you will have to be contactable and able to attend interviews if necessary.
Resources
There are a number of websites providing useful information on gap year opportunities in the UK and overseas; they also include useful advice. A few examples are:
Workaway.info - Workaway is the AirBnB of working holidays, with placements reviewed by past visitors.
Year Out Group An association of leading year out programme providers. The Group promotes good practice. Their website has advice for those seeking structured, year out opportunities and gives links to members' websites.
The Year in Industry The website has information about the scheme for students, lists placement vacancies and allows you to apply online.
International Citizens Service (ICS) is a UK Government funded programme providing volunteer placements to 18-25 year olds and Team Leader placements to 23-35 year olds
OMIO - Gap Year Travel - a one stop shop for booking tickets, travel advice and Gap Year options
Your Gap Year Travel Kit
Coming soon....
FAQ's
See weblinks to some Frequently Asked Questions about Gap Years
Target Jobs - taking a year out