Ananova :

Researchers have found the number of young people in the UK taking a gap year between school and university has jumped.

Numbers are up by nearly 15% compared with this time last year.

By Wednesday, 25,310 had been accepted onto courses starting in September 2002, up from 22,073 in 2001.

This represents an increase of 14.7%, says the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service.

But while the total number of students starting this year is higher compared with last year at 333,786, up from 317,725, the amount getting a place through clearing is still down, at 32,903 compared with last year's figure of 35,679.

The fifth and final breakdown of university admissions for 2001 will be published on Wednesday September 19, said UCAS.

Chief executive Tony Higgins said: "The number of people taking a year out before entering higher education has increased continually over the past few years.

"Students who take a well-planned structured year out are more likely to be satisfied with, and complete, their chosen course.

"Students who take a year out are often more mature, responsible and disciplined."

The final total is likely to be higher as some choose to take a gap year after getting their results, UCAS added.

Story filed: 18:49 Thursday 13th September 2001

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