Taking a year out can help you to learn new skills, broaden your horizons, and can be a valuable addition to your CV. It can also give you a chance to earn some money before you progress onto your next step.

In addition, gap years can provide you with an opportunity to take a break from studying before you begin college, university or an apprenticeship or provide you with space before you make a further decision about what you want to do in the future and which pathway is right for you.

So, what could you do if you had a whole year to yourself?

Learn a new skill? Travel? Volunteer? Gain some work experience? Or, all of the above.

The possibilities of a gap year are endless, so it is really important to think about what you’d like to gain from your gap year and to plan it properly. You will also need to consider the potential financial implications of each of the different options available – as some might cost considerable amounts of money.

If you take the time to plan a gap year carefully, you can end up with an experience or a whole range of experiences that can make you more attractive to potential employers, colleges and/or universities. However, it’s worth remembering, if you don’t, that it might just end up as a gap on your CV.

If you’re unsure of your options or want to find out more, speak to individual schools or colleges or speak to a qualified careers adviser through your school, college or other provider, local authority or via the National Careers Service.