Gap year organisations

Leading UK specialist in volunteer experiences throughout Africa. Amazing opportunities - conserving endangered wildlife, working on community, orphan care and medical projects, teaching and sports coaching to disadvantaged children, plus incredible adventure trips and game ranger courses. A family-run business, passionate about the projects offered with a service that is second-to-none. ATOL bonded.

Blue Ventures is an award-winning, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to coral reef conservation and sustainable development in coastal communities. You can take part in research, practical conservation, adventure and community development projects whilst being immersed and fully integrated in the local way of life. For ages 18-60+ (families with younger children welcome). The projects are carbon-offset and focus on long-term sustainability. Blue Ventures is a member of the Year Out Group and a finalist in the BBC World Challenge award.

Camps International is a world leader in responsible travel with a unique community-based operating model. They commit year-round to their projects, offering responsible travel experiences ranging from 1 to 12 weeks. Camps International has won the ‘Best Volunteering Organisation in the World' Responsible Tourism Award and the Eco-Warrior Award in Kenya. Camps International owns and operates extensive ground operations in East Africa, SE Asia and Latin America providing fully supported, safe expeditions.

Cross-Cultural Solutions is a short-term international volunteer organisation with programs in 12 countries. Staff members have years of experience in cultural exchange, and are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. All in-country staff members are from the local communities where the project takes place. Ages 18 to 99; families are welcome with children 8 and older. Members of the Year Out Group and IVPA.

GVN's vision is to support the work of local community organisations in developing countries through the placement of international volunteers. They believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.

Placements for enthusiastic and well-prepared volunteers on short-term building and skill-sharing projects. Challenging and unique experiences will not only help sustain projects for vulnerable children for years to come, but also effect a long-lasting change in you. For ages 18-75.

IVS believes that the more understanding there is between people, the less conflict there will be, so they organise local community projects to promote understanding and cooperation. If you want to volunteer promoting peace and social justice, they have a project for you! IVS is the British Branch of Service Civil International.

Become part of a global community with Kaya and make a difference on one of 180 volunteer placements worldwide. Take time out to enrich the lives of others and help them become more sustainable. Kaya works with local charities, communities and NGOs ensuring that every piece of work you do is fundamental to local development. From 2 weeks to 12 months, projects are tailored specifically to your needs and skills. Whatever your interest in volunteering, Kaya can help you give something back.

Volunteer or do paid work around the world in a wide variety of projects. Language courses, sports coaching and ski instructor courses available. Volunteer in medicine, conservation or health - projects are sustainable so you know you're really making a difference. Go on a trek or safari - there’s plenty of opportunities for extra adventures!

Professional volunteer projects in the developing world. You will use your qualifications, skills and experience, and be partnered with an in-country professional in the developing world. Placements are specifically for professionals (including retired people) and you must have a relevant degree or experience. You will be making a valuable contribution to one of the world's poorest communities.

Skills Venture organises informal consulting assignments in Kenya for UK business people to provide practical, one-to-one support to local small business entrepreneurs. You must be over 25 and have five years of commercial/business experience. You will be given a thorough briefing in local customs and values and current political, social and economic situations. You will also be briefed in responsible travel and mentorship practices.

The Leap has exclusive access to some of the worlds most sought-after safari camps and lodges. Spend 3 months helping their safari teams in all aspects of their jobs: taking clients out on safari, assisting with logistics and helping with their marketing and general management. A great opportunity to combine work experience with amazing safari opportunities.

Build your own boat on your career break! The academy delivers intensive, highly practical training in boat building and carpentry certified by City & Guilds and approved by the Royal Yachting Association. The courses are designed for school leavers (18+), more mature people taking a sabbatical/changing career, and people who want to work in carpentry or the marine industry.

International Academy offers ski, snowboard, sailing, scuba diving and surf instructor courses at various resorts and destinations worldwide. The company is part of the TUI Travel PLC Group of Companies and successful candidates are offered paid work placements. Internationally recognised qualifications let you work around the world. No upper age limit. Sailing, diving and surf programmes are available to people of all levels. Members of the Year Out Group and ATOL licence holders.

NothinButSnow will train you to become a ski or snowboard instructor. The training courses are in Whistler and Big White Ski Resort, in Canada. They have a unique 'no hidden fee' package. carbon-offset all flights and are fully ATOL protected.

Medical courses designed for career breakers who volunteer, train, work or travel in remote areas. A Surviving Adventure course will give you the skills you need to manage emergencies when you travel. Courses take place over 2 days in the UK, and 80% of training takes place outdoors, so you must be prepared to participate in all weathers!

'Off the beaten track' adventure travel, including things like white-water rafting, horse riding and camping. Tours are small, fun and flexible. Lots of optional activities to enjoy – from nature walking to gold-panning to country and western dancing! You also have a flexible itinerary, which includes 2- or 3-night stops in some places, so you're not rushing through. Accommodation ranges from camping to hostels, motels and hotels, depending on where you are (you are provided with all camping equipment except a sleeping bag). The focus is on getting off the beaten track, away from conventional tourists, so you get to see things you might otherwise miss.