Take a Career Break to Travel the World
Taking a year out doesn't have to be limited to before, or directly after, university. Many people choose to take a career break to travel the world at different stages in their lives. This could be for many reasons - they may have been made redundant, or chosen to leave their job, or looking for a new direction. Whatever the reason, most gap year organisations cater for older people looking for a year out career break, and will offer work placements or gap year programs that will challenge and inspire you when you travel the world.
Career Break
Inspire
Diverse volunteer projects across Africa, Asia, South America and Europe. Volunteer abroad with Inspire to match your skills and aspirations to projects in genuine need. Projects include volunteer teaching, childcare, healthcare, conservation, business and community work.
Find out more Visit their website
Inspired Breaks
Career breaks and world travel, volunteering and new discoveries are waiting!
Find out more Visit their website
African Conservation Experience
We provide all ages with the opportunity to work alongside experienced zoologists, marine biologists, conservationists, wildlife vets and reserve managers. Whether you are working as a research assistant out in the field or caring for animals in a wildlife rehabilitation centre, you will be making a valuable contribution to conservation efforts in southern Africa.
Find out more Visit their website
Flying Fish
At Flying Fish you can become a Yachtmaster, conquer the ski slopes, surf Sydney's best breaks or win at windsurfing. Learn the basics of sailing, dive the Barrier Reef or crew on a superyacht. With over 19 years' experience in the UK, Australia, Canada and Greece, Flying Fish promises you expert coaching and real adventure.
Find out more Visit their website
GAP Colombia
Exciting volunteer, gap year, teaching, sport, conservation, and humanitarian projects in beautiful and vibrant Colombia. Passion Spirit Adventure!
Will a career break, or gap year, hurt my career?
The short answer is no, but it depends on your circumstances.
Taking a break from a career is no longer seen as a disadvantage on your CV, in fact many employers are starting to see it in a very positive light. Many larger employers are realising that the long term benefits of having staff return refreshed, revitalised and ready to continue their career far outweigh the short term loss - and smaller employers may well listen to what you have to say as well.
If you are changing careers, a career break could be a perfect chance for you to slow down and really think about what you want to do, again, if you do something worthwhile that will improve your CV, it can actually help you in your new career - especially if you volunteer for something that is relevant.
How long should my "break" be?
It's up to you, a career break can vary from months to years - it depends on what you want.
If you are taking a career break to see the world you should probably look at being away for no longer than 6 months. If however you are planning to work abroad or do some volunteering then your CV can stand a longer break. Basically we think that you should go for as long as you want, but always think about the effect your break will have on your career.
What should I do on my career break?
You can do pretty much anything you want!
Some people just take a break from the rat race to see the world with no intention of doing anything but sight seeing, other people choose to voluteer on one of the many worldwide projects or even work their way around the world doing jobs they've never done. You could do all of the above, all we recommend is that you think about 2 things at all times:
- How will what I am doing look on my CV
- What am I going to do when I get back.
Remember it is a "career break" - so you need to restart that career when you get back!
