Gap Year Surge Expected as School Leavers Miss Out on University Places

Aug. 19, 2010 - PRLog -- Gap year and TEFL specialists i-to-i are expecting a surge of interest in gap years today, as an estimated 180,000 youngsters receiving their A Level results are set to miss out on places at university.

A lack of job prospects for school leavers has fuelled 660,953 applications for only 481,854 undergraduate spots available.

As such, many school leavers will be looking into gap year opportunities abroad today, in the hope of boosting their skills and improving their UCAS applications in time for September 2011.

Bruce Haxton, operations director at i-to-i, said: “In the past weeks we have spoken to a large number of school leavers who are concerned about their results, and we expect to hear from many more in the coming weeks.

“Each year, i-to-i are delighted to work with a large number of young people who find themselves taking unexpected years out.

“The programs that we offer around the world are not only hugely enjoyable, but also offer young people a significant addition to their CVs, as well as the opportunity to make a difference all around the world.”

i-to-i offers meaningful adventures in over 20 countries worldwide, enabling school leavers to take on all kinds of challenges, from looking after lion cubs in South Africa to building homes for underprivileged communities in Honduras. Trips cost from £700 and can last for one to 12 weeks.

Georgina Auld, 19, from Wiltshire, who volunteered at an elephant sanctuary in Sri Lanka after leaving school in June 2009, described it as the “best thing you could do with your gap year.

“If I was to give one piece of advice to future gap year travellers it would be to embrace every chance you get to do new things out of your comfort zone!”

For those who want to earn money as they travel, teaching English abroad is an increasingly popular option. There is no need to have previous teaching experience – there are paid opportunities around the world for those who get TEFL certified on accredited and recognised TEFL courses, such as those offered by i-to-i.

Jodie Taylor, who teaches English in Thailand, said: “Teaching abroad is a great way to meet people, to learn about other cultures and to get some work experience. I haven’t been in Thailand long, but I know that this job will do wonders for my confidence. I can only see it as a positive thing for the future, whether I continue to teach or not.”

Those who are considering their options can get expert advice about their plans by calling i-to-i on 0800 011 1156 or visiting http://www.i-to-i.com.