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FAITH WISDOM
INTEGRITY COMPASSION |
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Senior : International Opps : GAP
Contact List - GAP
Many Year 12 students elect to have a year's break before starting tertiary studies and this period is called a Gap year. The Gap scheme has grown in popularity since 1985, with approximately 20 school leavers placed in various schools in England, Scotland and Wales each year. Knox has developed close connections with a number of UK public schools (similar to our private schools) and they have asked Knox to select suitable students to fill their particular requirements. These positions are for 12 months, in both preparatory and secondary schools.
With more applicants than positions, not all Knox applicants can be placed with our partner schools so individual students are encouraged and assisted to write to UK schools to find their own positions.
The student completes the usual HSC requirements, including the lodging of his UAC choice for a tertiary position. Once the offers come out, the student accepts the position but applies to defer for one year. This is almost always granted and guarantees a position once the student completes the Gap year and returns to Australia.
Students pay their own fares to the UK and receive free board and lodgings plus a small salary from the host school. Their work requirements are many and varied, from assisting in the coaching of the traditional games such as rugby, cricket, football and hockey to being a resident in a boarding house. Many have joined the CCF (cadets), assisted with musical and drama activities and accompanied school tour groups on walking and skiing excursions.
The UK school holidays are quite long with a month between terms and a week's half-term break plus about eight weeks' summer vacation over July/August. However, many schools are boarding schools and have lessons on Saturday mornings as well as other activities over the weekend.
The Gap year provides an ideal opportunity to travel overseas, gain independence and maturity and to be self-reliant, all within a structured environment. Students learn to manage a budget and comply with the requirements and responsibilities of paid employment and have the chance to gain from the many benefits and experiences which travel offers.
Applications are usually called for from Year 12 students early in Term 1. Selection is by interview and reference, focusing firstly on suitability for the position and secondly, careful matching of skills, attributes and interests with the character and requirements of the host schools.
Knox Senior School also takes three Gap students per semester from UK schools with which we have established long-term arrangements. These young men perform duties as Resident Masters in the boarding houses as well as assisting the academic staff and coaching sporting teams.
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