Best gap year programs in the UK?

I'm curious about taking a gap year and have always been fascinated by the UK. Are there any standout programs there that offer a mix of travel, learning, or work? Any personal experiences to share?

Programs in the UK offer a variety of options for gap years. It's great that you're interested in gaining a blend of travel, learning, and work experience!

One option is Raleigh International, which offers expeditions in a few different countries but is UK-based and has a strong reputation. They aim to create lasting change through youth-driven activities that emphasize not only travel and adventure, but also sustainable development and leadership skills with local communities. While they run programs worldwide, they frequently run UK-focused expeditions, particularly in the Lake District and Scotland.

For those interested in work experiences, Bunac is another great option. They offer "Work in Britain" programs where you can be assisted in finding a job, usually in the service industry or in an office. They also assist with visa and accommodation arrangements.

Another unique option is the Year Out Group. They offer different overseas and UK based programs in areas such as teaching, business internships, and conservation work. What is great about them is you can filter by what you're looking to gain, whether it be leadership skills, language skills, cultural immersion, and much more.

Project Trust is also worth considering. It provides long-term overseas volunteering opportunities and is highly respected, though it does require serious commitment. They usually place volunteers in education-related roles, and while they operate internationally, the program is based in Scotland.

Since these are group-based experiences, the dynamic inevitably depends on who else is on the program at the same time, so it could be beneficial to consider if one is better suited to your personality or goals. Remember, each person's gap year experience is unique, and what works best for you may not work at all for someone else. Happy planning!