Is a gap year the best decision for your child?
For a variety of reasons, many matriculants leaving high school choose to take time off before enrolling into university. Some wish to travel the world, some are uncertain of what careers to follow and some are unsure of their financial situation and want to gain experience in the “real world” before making a big commitment. Whatever the reason, understanding the pro’s and cons will help avoid the “gap year” from stretching on indefinitely.
Pros
- A gap year allows school leavers to take a step back and “recharge” after years of the daily academic grind
- A gap year will allow students the opportunity to think about what career path to follow
- Work experience is a great résumé-builder and can result in increased focus and maturity
- Working full time can help students save up money for university fees
Cons
- It’s easy to lose focus and fall out of the academic routine
- Watching friends and classmates move on to university before you ,can be disheartening for most children
- Students who wait, sometimes lose access to guidance counselors, peer support, and even scholarship resources that they had fresh out of high school
Educational psychologists at Bryanwood Therapy and Assessment Centre are trained and experienced in dealing with matriculants and parents faced with this all important decision.
Contact us on 011 706 2269 or 011 706 0979 to make an appointment
