Year Out
If you are considering a gap year after college you will find a useful list of links on the yearoutgroup and greatgapyears websites. The BEST site when considering a gap year is www.gapyear.com.
There are also some excellent books about planning a gap year in the careers section of the library. Anything by "Tom Griffiths" is worth reading as he is an expert on this topic. "Before you go" and "The Virgin student travellers' handbook" should be essential reading.
One of the most important considerations when planning a gap year abroad is your safety. Personal insurance covering both health and belongings are absolutely essential!
Gap year organisations vary in location, duration, and price, and some provide financial assistance by way of scholarships e.g. Gap challenge. See individual websites for details. www.gapyear.com provides essential information when planning your trip.
If you want to spend your year out working to raise money for higher education, Employment4students (www.e4s.co.uk) is a jobsite offering a wide range of the latest student jobs, part time, temporary and graduate jobs. Our site is dedicated to helping students and young people find work.
If you intend applying for a course which requires relevant work experience e.g. Social Work then you may wish to consider volunteering with Community Service Volunteers. You would have free accommodation and food as well as receiving a weekly allowance of £27. Minimum of 4 months Maximum 12 months voluntary period. More information available from: www.csv.org.uk
If you are considering a career in engineering, science or general business you may wish to consider applying to do a year in industry before going into higher education. Placements are available in large companies locally and nationally and the average weekly payment is £140. More information is available at: www.yini.org.uk