Who should do a gap year
The end of school or college for any young person can feel like standing at the edge of a cliff. You’ve got the world at your feet, but not everyone is ready to leap straightaway into university or an apprenticeship or, indeed, full-time work/training. So when should you, as a parent or teacher, actually start to consider seriously if a gap year might not just be a ‘nice idea’, but actually the best idea for a young person?
Whether your teenager is full of doubts or just needs a bit more time, a gap year can offer a valuable breather, and a well needed boost. Here are some signs to look out for when considering if it might be the right move for a young person.
They’re unsure what to study or do
When a young person literally cannot decide between Psychology or Physics, or Sheffield or Strathclyde – or isn’t even sure they want to go to university – a gap year can give them much needed space to explore their interests, work, travel or volunteer. Better to start a degree with conviction than confusion.
A number of students genuinely change their mind during the process of applying to university and those who apply, do so for a range of different reasons. One reason (often seen by careers advisers) is to stop the barrage of questions about whether or not they have applied and if not, why not? Or, asking them what they are going to do if they don’t go to university. It is often only once offers come through that many students realise their heart is not actually into Natural Sciences at Nottingham after all.
They didn’t get the grades they hoped for
Resitting exams might not be fun, but doing it without the pressure of school, alongside two or three other A levels or other commitments can change everything. A structured gap year can help students reapply with new improved results, new discovered ambitions and new found confidence.
They’re waiting for their first-choice uni
The more competitive universities may reject a student the first time around. Many determined individuals use a gap year wisely to brush up on their grades or get that all-important work experience. This often gives them the edge the second time they apply. The gap year can enable students to focus on what they want and avoid them rushing into a second choice they are not totally committed to.
They have lost confidence or feel burnt out
After years of academic pressure, it’s not uncommon for students to feel overwhelmed, exhausted or unsure of themselves. For many the thought of another year of studying and the prospect of sitting more exams the following summer is enough to put them off university completely. A gap year focused on personal growth – through travel, work, or simply stepping away from learning a curriculum – can restore motivation and build resilience.
They are concerned about their finances
Taking time out might be the ideal opportunity to save money for university. Getting into debt can be stressful and, therefore, having some money put aside can ease the pressure significantly. It goes without saying, financial difficulties encountered at university can have a huge impact on students’ experience, mental health and finally end results.
They have a desire to do something meaningful or different
The range of things people can do in a gap year is truly inspirational. With encouragement, a few or several months away might be enough to completely change a young person’s life. Purposeful time out doesn’t just ‘fill a year’ – it can shape the person they become.
If a young person wants to use the year to do something different, it might make sense to apply to university for deferred entry. They would then have something to aim for, and something to fall back on. They also get the benefit of all of the application support offered at their school or college, and they won’t have to do it themselves the following year. Students can always withdraw and reapply if their circumstances change.
Final thoughts: It’s a forward step to move ahead with confidence
A gap year isn’t about putting life on pause. It’s about making sure that when a young person presses play again, they’re ready for what’s ahead. The key is helping plan it with intention – not indifference.
© Jill Valentine
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