OV Gap Year Talks Inspire L6 Students

King’s recently welcomed back OVs Tilly Cook (Cr 18-25 and Old Hawfordian), Harry Flockhart (Ca 13-20 and Old St Alban’s), Issy Harris (W 12-19) and Ruby Ingles (Ch 16-25) to speak with the current Lower Sixth about gap year opportunities and their own experiences, offering an honest and insightful look at the opportunities, challenges, and rewards that come from taking some time away from academia.

Gap talks – 2

The talks provided a valuable opportunity for L6 students to hear first-hand accounts of what a gap year can look like in practice. Each speaker brought a unique perspective: from travelling and volunteering abroad to gaining work experience and developing new skills at home. A core message was that there is no “right way” to spend a gap year, rather it is something that needs to be shaped by individual goals and interests.

The OVs also shared practical advice, encouraging students to plan ahead, budget carefully, and remain open to new opportunities. They highlighted how challenges along the way often lead to the most rewarding experiences.

Importantly, the OVs reassured students that taking a gap year is a chance to pause, reflect, and grow before embarking on the next stage of life. For many, it provided clarity about future studies or career paths, making the transition to university or beginning a career more purposeful and informed.

The talks were both insightful and inspiring, giving L6 students plenty to consider as they begin thinking about life beyond King’s and whether a gap year might be the right choice for them.

Many thanks to Tilly, Harry, Issy and Ruby for their time!