Gap Year Programmes

What is a gap year programme?

Gap year programs traditionally involved young adults travelling abroad to explore new experiences and cultures. Despite the name, they don't have to last exactly a year - they can be shorter or longer depending on what works for you.

Over time, gap years have evolved to offer more flexibility. You can travel anywhere, for any duration, and get involved in different projects. Today, a gap year is simply a period where you step away from your usual routine to try something new and grow as a person.

How does a gap year scheme work?

Gap year programmes can be as structured or flexible as you want them to be.

You might plan out exactly where you're going, when, and what projects you'll work on. Or you might prefer a more open approach - arriving somewhere and finding work or volunteering opportunities as you go.

Both approaches are valid, though having at least some planning in place is sensible. Companies like Frontier can help you find structured gap year work experiences and volunteering opportunities abroad if you'd like guidance.

Who would suit doing a gap year?

If you enjoy adventure, want to see the world and gain some great experience to stick on your CV, a gap year could well be right for you.

Spending time in different cultures can broaden your perspective and help you develop personally. That said, gap years aren't for everyone. Starting an apprenticeship, school-leaver scheme, or going to university are equally valuable paths for professional development after school.

Each person suits different things. If your friends do a gap year while you start an apprenticeship or vice versa, neither choice is better - they’re just different ways of moving forward.

Where can you do gap year work placements?

Plenty! Of course, there will always be places that are more popular than others - Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand consistently attract young travellers, as do South American countries.

You can also explore parts of Africa or Asia, or backpack through Europe for adventures closer to home.

Why should someone do a gap year?

Student gap years let you get stuck into some meaningful projects, including saving endangered species, helping out wildlife and marine conservation groups, teaching English abroad and working on community development projects.

Beyond the experiences and memories, you'll also develop skills that benefit you professionally, like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving.

Lets breakdown some of the benefits:

• Personal growth - You'll be involved in experiences that help you learn and develop as a person.

• New skills - Depending on what you do, you'll develop practical skills like time management, people management, and potentially language skills.

• CV experience - Your gap year provides valuable content for job applications and helps you stand out.

• A break when you can take one - At this stage of life, taking extended time away is more feasible. Once you're in full-time work, opportunities like this become harder to arrange.

When is best to do a gap year programme?

In a similar way to everything else concerning gap years, there’s no real one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to when’s best to do a gap year.

If you're thinking about timing during the year, consider the climate and seasons of where you're going. For example, travelling to India during monsoon season (June to October) might not be ideal. Research the countries you're considering to find the best time to visit.

Whether a gap year is right for you depends on your personal goals and circumstances. It's one of several valuable options available as you figure out your next steps.