Europe invests £13bn to encourage studying abroad

It is hoped that more young people will consider studying overseas in years to come, as the European Union (EU) plans to spend £13 billion on a drive to boost the number of students based at foreign universities.

Speaking at a WorkSkills conference in London last week, the EU's education commissioner Androulla Vassiliou outlined a package of measures that officials hope will lure students away from their home countries.

Ms Vassiliou noted figures which show young people who learn a second language benefit from increased problem-solving skills and generally do better in school.

"They also improve communication skills and critical mindset, which makes them more adaptable and more employable. Studying foreign languages opens up more career possibilities," she added.

Learning a foreign language is just one of many gap year activities which may be incorporated into structured time out before or after university.

Last week, sixth-form student Matty Court, 17, told the Morpeth Herald of his plans to undertake voluntary work as part of a gap year in Africa on which he hopes to gain skills and experience to boost his future career.

Read about gap year stories