Gap years help build confidence for young people

For parents, encouraging children to take a gap year can be one of the best decisions they make.

Particularly for the self-conscious and introverted, travelling the world and meeting different people can be a life-changing experience.

Taking a gap enables young people to socialise in a different setting, in a low-pressure environment away from the rigours of work or education.

And as well as aiding skills development, this can help build confidence, according to Directgov.

Having travelled abroad during a gap year, young people are likely to be more independent and better prepared for the new challenge of university life.

From a parent's perspective, this can help ensure their child's transition into higher education is a smooth one - reducing the risks of failure during the first term away from home.

Click here for gap year advice.