The best gap year programmes for Australian school leavers

Whatever the reason, it seems more and more school leavers are choosing to defer further education for a year of travelling, working or volunteering - commonly known as a gap year.

With benefits extending to social, academic and personal growth, it's easy to see why an estimated 20 per cent of Australian students who have completed high school take a year out (Longitudinal Surveys of Australian Youth data).

If you're thinking about taking a gap year, it's important to answer the following questions…

Where should you go and what should you do?

Teaching in the United Kingdom

Ever dreamed of living and working in the United Kingdom? Turn this fantasy into a reality with Letz Live - a worldwide leader in overseas opportunities for young people. In 2014, Letz Live formed with Tutors Worldwide to provide an array of educational and exciting programmes for school leavers looking to broaden their minds and horizons.

As well as Canada, Thailand and New Zealand, Letz Live offers teaching opportunities in the United Kingdom. Here, gap assistants can work alongside staff at local schools in England, Scotland and Wales, gaining valuable experience, improving hard skills and making positive connections. This programme is offered at a 12-month commitment so participants can gain long-lasting benefits from living and working in a completely new place.

Marine conservation in Mozambique

Be part of an incredible team helping preserve and protect an array of marine life and the place they call home by embarking on a gap year with Conservation Travel Africa. This fantastic venture gives school leavers the chance to work alongside marine biologists as they complete their scientific studies. Through conservation projects in the area and various research programmes, students have the chance to support the development of marine science in Mozambique, which is renowned for its incredible views and culture.

Skiing and snowboarding in Canada

Adrenaline junkies, listen up. Ski le Gap are taking the classroom to Canada through its array of ski and snowboard instructor classes. The world-renowned gap year programme provider combines an amazing mountain experience with the chance to gain internationally-recognised qualifications at the same time.

There are two different options to choose from:

• Pre-season 4-week intensive training programme with Level 1 CASI/CSIA certification and the chance to go on and teach in the same season.
• Ultimate Experience 10-week programme with up to seven different certifications, as well as weekly French lessons and a fun-packed itinerary with trips around the country!

With a plethora of other activities to experience, and small, intimate groups of like-minded people to share them with, it's hardly surprising previous participants don't have a bad word to say about the programmes:

"I took part in the 10-week course with Ski le Gap, I have to say it is without a doubt the best thing I have ever done!"

"I did the Ultimate Experience and can safely say I had 10 amazing weeks. Skiing with CSIA Level 4 instructors day in, day out, all season improved my skiing (and teaching) massively - I can now proudly say I am Level 2 ski instructor!"

As with any trip abroad, there's a lot of planning involved - including ensuring travel insurance has been taken care of.  So happy planning!

If you'd like to find out more about this policy, or any other we offer, get in touch with the team today, or get a free online quote.