Students facing an unexpected gap year following disappointing A-level results could consider becoming a volunteer. Fulfilling, rewarding and challenging placements range from a week with the National Trust or the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers to several months teaching in the Philippines or Nepal.  WorldWide Volunteering’s database allows young people to build an on-screen profile of their ideal placement, some costing nothing at all. It can also be used for projects in holiday periods and for citizenship and community action programmes. With more than 1,100 organisations listed, there is plenty for young volunteers to choose from.

www.wwv.org.uk; tel: 01935 825588.