Taking a Gap Year

It's becoming increasingly common for students to take a year out between school and university. Most higher education institutions have no problem with this - in fact many recognise the benefits and opportunities it offers to students, however it's well worth checking with the universities you're thinking of applying to and it's vital to make your plans clear on your UCAS form.

There are lots of different ways to spend a gap year, but one very positive option is to complete some work experience. If you're taking a chemistry or chemical science degree work experience in a chemistry related field may give you a better idea of what you want to do. 

If you're thinking of taking this route it'd be well worth contacting the YINI (Year in Industry) organisation who run a scheme that links students with companies which can offer them year out placements. The scheme is predominantly for students taking gap years and is designed with you in mind. 

If you're successful in gaining a placement YINI provide training and support to enable you to get the most out of the experience. They're also currently setting up a scheme with Raleigh International to allow students to combine travel with work experience. To find out more visit the YINI website.

If you're thinking of travelling or completing some voluntary work abroad we also link to a number of useful websites from School Students Course Links.