Congratulations! You’ve reached a major milestone by finishing high school or your degree. Now what? Take a gap year!
What is a gap year?
When you hear the term “gap year” you might think of travelling abroad. However, there’s no need to travel abroad for a gap, there are many affordable gap-year opportunities in South Africa.
A gap year can last anywhere between three months to a year of time off after high school or completing your studies. The whole point of this time off is to help you develop practical skills, experience, and self-awareness. What you do during this time depends on your personal goals and interests.
Nolwazi explains…
Planned or forced…
There are two types of gap years, namely planned and forced. A planned gap year is when you willingly choose to take time off, often with a plan for travelling or volunteering. A forced gap year usually happens when your Grade 12 results or university applications don’t turn out as anticipated, leaving you with unexpected time off. If you are forced to take a gap year, use this time to rewrite your matric or upgrade your results.
A gap year offers unique opportunities and experiences you might miss while studying or working. This year of your life gives you time to volunteer for projects you’re passionate about and focus on personal growth. This is a great time to improve your skills for your future career or save money for your studies. When planning your gap year, seek opportunities relevant to your career goals. For instance, if you want to be a teacher, consider working as a camp counsellor, tutor, or teaching English online.
You can also add your gap year to your résumé. Employers view it positively, as they seek candidates with both degrees and experience. Taking a gap year can showcase your courage, curiosity, service, leadership, and other skills gained during this time.
What are your local options?
Ditshego serves the Mooiplaas (Spruit) community. Its community-based programmes provide care and support to vulnerable children. Volunteering here allows you to make a direct impact on the lives of children in need while gaining experience in social work and community service.
If you’re looking for adventure, consider becoming a summer camp counsellor at Sugar Bay. This programme is perfect if you are interested in working with children and enjoy the great outdoors. As a counsellor, you’ll help run camp activities and ensure the safety of campers.
Visit ForGood to find a volunteer programme that aligns with your interests and passions. This platform connects volunteers with various non-profit organisations across South Africa. Whether you’re interested in education, healthcare, animal welfare, or environmental conservation, there’s a volunteer opportunity waiting for you.
Stay informed about local youth opportunities by visiting SAYouth.mobi or YES4Youth. This platform provides information on various programmes, internships, and job opportunities for young people. It’s a great resource to help you find the right fit for your gap year plans.
Explore these options to find the perfect gap year opportunity for you.
Sources
Business News Daily: Want to Take a Gap Year? 7 Ways to Make It a Productive One
Sizanani: Post matric, gap year, jobs & businesses
The Village: Post Matric Options: The Gap Year Guide
University of Witwatersrand: Managing a Forced Gap Year
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