Planning a gap year is really exciting, especially when you’re at the stage of picking destinations to visit. It’s also worth giving some thought to working while you’re overseas; so, we’ve put together a list of the top gap year job ideas below.
Bear in mind that deciding to work during your gap year doesn’t mean you need to do so through the whole thing – though you can if you wish. Instead, you could opt to work for a short period just to top up your funds – or simply to gain some valuable work experience or make new friends. The choice is yours!
1. Summer Camp USA
Have you got the skills? Do you like to have fun? Are you looking for a worthwhile summer job? Have you always wanted to break America? You can do all of this at Summer Camp USA!
If you’re a student or graduate and fancy popping over to the states for an amazing summer experience then working at an American summer camp could be for you. There are thousands of camps throughout North America, image living and working somewhere like New York, Florida or California!
If you have experience is a certain area like lifeguarding, tennis, windsurfing, football, archery you can find so many roles. Don’t be put off if you don’t have these types of sports skills or background, you can still join the support crew, where you’ll fill a role in the kitchen, dining room, office, or as part of the general housekeeping, laundry or maintenance teams.
To apply, or search similar roles view Gap Year World’s summer jobs abroad.
2. Become a Ski/Snowboard Instructor
A gap year is the ideal time to learn new skills and have an adventure, which is why we’ve picked qualifying as a ski or snowboard instructor as one of our top jobs. You can do this by booking yourself on a short course – if you can, choose one especially designed for gap years, as they will often help you find a job once your training is a complete.
An added advantage of doing something like this is that there are so many amazing destinations to choose from, like France (see some of the best destinations here), New Zealand and Canada – and you could even train in one then spend some time touring and working in the others. A bonus of working in France is that UK residents don’t even need to secure a working visa, making it a really simple choice.
3. Sports Coaching in South Africa
Another option to consider is sports volunteering. Admittedly, this won’t earn you any money, but it can be a fantastically rewarding experience.
You could travel to South Africa and get to live in fantastic city like Cape Town and coach local children in any sports you’re well-versed in, with the ultimate goal of boosting their confidence and mental wellbeing, as well as their physical fitness.
Most roles are voluntary but usually include accommodation and meals. It is also great way to explore more of South Africa too in your spare time. Check out One World 365’s volunteer programs in South Africa to browse trips.
4. Work in the Australian Outback
Australia is a popular choice for gap years, thanks to its combination of amazing attractions, sunshine and the fact that there’s no language barrier. Lots of people opt to head to destinations like Sydney to work in the local bars, but there are more adventurous options if you’d like to do something a little more memorable.
You could opt to learn basic ranch skills in the Australian outback, for instance. Pass the course – this usually lasts a week – and you’ll be helped to find work at a ranch for up to a year. So, you’ll earn money for things like driving cattle and riding horses – it’s hard work, but it’s a fantastic experience!
Interested in this experience? View Seasonal Jobs Abroad guide to working in Australia.
5. Teach English in Japan
Another great option is teaching English as a foreign language in Japan.
You’ll typically spend the first few weeks after your arrival doing your TEFL training, which will leave you equipped to teach your native language to local youngsters. Additionally, you are likely to receive tuition in the basics of Japanese, as well as be helped to get to grips with local customs.
When you’re not teaching, you can spend your time exploring the country as you please, making this a brilliant way to balance travel and learning. While you won’t need any prior teaching experience before you go, you’re likely to need other skills and qualifications, such as good English grades, an A-level education and previous experience working with children.
This role is a great way to live in Japan and also see more of the country in your spare time. To learn more about applying, visit Book My TEFL Course to start your TEFL journey.
6. Holiday Rep in Europe
Keen to spend an epic summer living by the beach in Europe? You can find holiday rep positions in countries like France, Spain, Portugal, Croatia and Greece. Travel companies, and also local bars, clubs and hotels hire thousands of staff for peak tourism season from May to September. Popular places to work include Ibiza, Mallorca, Mykonos, Algarve, Dubrovnik, Zante and Cavos – just to name a few. Expect to meet a lot of people and have a lot of fun!
7. Helping Elephants in Thailand
Would you like to travel and spend a gap year in Thailand? Great decision. This country is spectacular with so many diverse opportunities and experiences available. One popular option is to go and help elephants!
This might sound like a dream, but you can easily turn this into a reality as there are so many sanctuaries that recruit English speaking volunteers. Roles include helping wildlife, collecting food, leading educational and conservation initiatives and also helping with fundraising. Check out Inspire Your Trips guide to elephant sanctuaries in Thailand to find places to apply.
There really are so many work and travel programs available to take part in on a gap year, hopefully my list has given you some ideas. These articles will also help you to take the ultimate break:
• Ultimate backpacking destinations
• Where to go on a gap year
• What are the best gap year companies
• Top 10 gap year ideas
