What Are the Pros & Cons of a Gap Year After Sixth Form?

Having a gap year can allow time for a well-earned break and provide opportunities to explore something new. Gap years are very educational and can often be life changing, but there are some risks involved. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of taking a gap year after Sixth Form.

Pro #1 – Your Child Has a Break From Studying

Probably one of the most obvious advantages to students is the break in their studies they will receive. With a lot of years studying hard for exams it can be difficult for students to move up to the next stage in their studies immediately after the last set of exams. Every child is different, and a gap year can be used to recharge, take up another hobby or start volunteering. Many even choose to travel the world.

Pro #2 – Your Child Could Prepare Themselves for Future

While the anxiety of student loans and other costs could be concerning for students, there will be plenty of support for them at this stage. Some children, however, might choose to spend a year picking up one of their first jobs to gain some real hands-on experience. It could also be a lesson in money management and saving.

Before leaving Sixth Form, we recommend your child talking to their teachers or utilising career services that many schools have on offer. This Sixth Form in London provides plenty of support for A Level students so that they can make the right decisions before considering Higher Education straight after receiving their exam results. It helps all students decide which options could be the best approach for their particular situation, which will vary for everyone.

Con #1 – The Anxiety of Losing a Year

While there will always be time for studies, students can feel the pressure of another year on their shoulders that they will effectively have to use for studies. This can put them back a year in comparison to their peers. While each situation will be different, and a gap year shouldn’t be entirely dismissed, your child should aim to have a clear plan in place for the year break they have.

Con #2 – It Can be Harder to Return to Study

After the gap in learning, your child may feel a little reluctant to pick up where they left off and return to studying. It can cause a lot of unnecessary stress for some prospective students wanting to head back into Higher Education in comparison to others. That said, it can be just as easy depending on what your child does in their gap year or what they achieve.

As long as they get back into the groove with their studies, a gap year will ensure they can keep up with the rest of the class. Their gap year could also be really educational and help them with the next few years of study, it’s purely down to what your child makes of their free time.

Gap years will always have pros and cons, it’s why your child will need to plan practically and see what a good approach for them would be.                                                                                                               

Talk to your child at length to make sure they are making the right decision, but don’t be too hard on them for making their own decisions.