Gap Year Options
A gap year gives you time to try something different before moving on to further education, training, or work. It can help you gain experience, build skills, and save money while you decide what you want to do next. Many people use a gap year to travel, volunteer, work, or take short courses that strengthen their CV or university application.
You can travel to new places and learn about different cultures, or stay in the UK to work and save for future costs like university or moving into your own home. Volunteering—locally or abroad—lets you make a positive difference while learning practical skills. A gap year can also be a chance to focus on yourself, gain confidence, and plan your next steps with more clarity.
Before you go, think about safety, finances and how the year will help your long‑term goals. Always check that any gap year provider is reputable and ask your Personal Advisor (PA) for advice. You may be able to get financial help for travel, volunteering, or training through your local authority or the Care Leaver Covenant.
Ways to spend a gap year
You can choose one clear focus or combine several activities into a blended year:
- Work in the UK to earn and gain experience while saving for future plans.
- Travel with trusted providers that offer supported placements and clear safety checks.
- Volunteer on projects such as conservation, teaching, sports coaching, or community work.
- Do short courses, work placements or internships to build skills and qualifications.
- Blend activities — part‑time work, volunteering and short trips to get a mix of experience and income.
Useful organisations and links
These organisations list safe providers and offer programmes you can join or research:
- Year Out Group — lists approved gap year providers. Visit the Year Out Group website.
- Raleigh International — supported international volunteering projects. Visit the Raleigh International website.
- Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) — international volunteering programmes.
- Prince’s Trust — UK‑based volunteering, training and personal development. Visit the Princes Trust website.
Ask your PA for local Rotherham options such as community projects, youth groups, or the Care Leavers Forum (Look Ahead Group). Your PA can also help you plan finances, check safety, and make sure your gap year supports your goals.
