Paid Gap Year in the United Kingdom – Activity Assistant

Experience working abroad in the United Kingdom

Apply now for our 2026 intake commencing in March/April. Applications close in...
Start Application
Application fee: $125 AUD
Application Closing Date: 31st July, 2025
  • Full-time paid employment with training and support.
  • Accommodation and meals provided on-site .
  • Placements based all across England, Scotland and Wales.

Overview

Up to 2 years
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The United Kingdom is a top destination for those seeking a gap year, offering a unique mix of history, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Stonehenge to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall, the UK has something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the energy of London, the charm of Edinburgh, or the cultural treasures of Oxford and Cambridge, the UK provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable adventure. And with Europe just a short trip away, the opportunities for exploration are endless!

Our paid Gap Year in the United Kingdom programme is designed for young people eager to immerse themselves in British culture while working as an Activity Assistant. We partner with over 25 outdoor learning centres across England, Scotland, and Wales, offering placements in some of the UK’s most beautiful locations. Whether you’ve just finished high school, are currently studying at university, or have recently graduated, this programme provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop valuable skills, and make lifelong memories.

As an Activity Assistant, you’ll play a key role in creating unforgettable experiences for schools and groups visiting the centres. These placements span the entirety of mainland UK, giving you a unique insight into daily life in one of the world’s most exciting destinations. Schools and groups book stays at these centres (similar to school camps), where they participate in activities designed to build confidence, teamwork, and resilience. Your role might involve helping kids conquer their fears on a high ropes course in the morning, facilitating team puzzles and games in the afternoon, and leading songs around a campfire in the evening. Essentially, you’ll act as a “big brother” or “big sister,” providing support, encouragement, and fun throughout their stay.

No prior experience is required, as you’ll receive comprehensive training upon arrival. Your days will be varied and exciting, with activities that could include canoeing, climbing, archery, paddleboarding, and sports, among many others. If you prefer a behind-the-scenes role, there are also opportunities in maintenance, groundskeeping, retail, administrative support, and catering. This flexibility ensures there’s a role for everyone, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or more comfortable working in a support capacity.

In addition to a competitive weekly paycheck, your placement includes accommodation and food (read more about this below), making it easy to save money while you explore the UK and Europe during your time off. The UK’s excellent public transport system allows you to visit nearby towns and cities, while your placement gives you the chance to live and work alongside like-minded individuals from around the world. Most placements are for six months, but extensions are often available for those who excel in their roles.

This programme is perfect for those who love being active, social, and working with kids. It’s a fast-paced, rewarding experience that requires energy, enthusiasm, and a passion for outdoor adventures. You’ll develop transferable skills, broaden your horizons, and have a lot of fun along the way. If you’re curious about what it’s like to work in one of these centres, check out our blog for firsthand stories from past participants.

Whether you’re exploring the cobbled streets of York, hiking in the Lake District, or enjoying a traditional pub in a quaint village, the UK offers the perfect mix of adventure, cultural discovery, and personal growth. With Letz Live, you’ll have the chance to fully embrace British culture, gain real-world professional experience, and create memories that will last a lifetime. This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, meet incredible people, and experience life in one of the most dynamic and beautiful countries in the world.

Eligibility

Applicants for our United Kingdom Working Holiday Program must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age (at time of departure) and hold a British or Irish passport or have parents or grandparents who were born in the UK
  • OR be at least 18 years of age (at time of departure) and hold a valid Australian, Canadian or New Zealand passport
  • Have no serious pre-existing medical conditions
  • Have no prior convictions, with the ability to provide evidence as required
  • Have completed (at a minimum) secondary schooling prior to arrival into the United Kingdom
  • Be willing to undergo a medical examination as part of the visa application (if required by United Kingdom Immigration authorities)

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Application and Programme Fees

All our Working Holiday programs are subject to a non-refundable application fee which is payable at the time you complete your online application. Only applicants who are offered and subsequently accept a placement will be charged the remainder of the programme fee.

OriginApplication FeeProgramme Fee
Africa AUD $125.00ZAR = R24,995.00
Europe & United KingdomAUD $125.00GBP = £1,350.00
Everywhere ElseAUD $125.00AUD = $2,690.00
Returnee ParticipantAUD $125.00AUD = $1,500.00

Our Activity Camp Programme includes:

How to apply for a working holiday

  • Apply online

    Send us your application with employment history + referees & travel dates. It’s as simple as that!

  • Chat with us

    Casual over the phone chat to discuss your plans, the type of role, the destination and position details.

  • Employer Intro

    We’ll organise a time for you to speak with the potential employer so you can ask question & discuss the role.

  • Accept the offer

    Once you accept the job & pay our fee it’s time for us to help you with visas + bank account details.

  • Support

    Our staff are well-travelled & can assist with specific travel Qs & general tips before you depart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find the answers to some commonly asked questions regarding our UK Working Holiday – Activity Assistsant programme. Can’t find the answer to your question? Get in touch with one of our friendly team today and request an information pack!

In most cases, you will be living in staff quarters at the same location as your place of employment.

The opportunities we provide are full-time positions for a minimum of 6 months. Towards the end of the 6 months you can decide if you’d like to stay longer or try something new.

We’re big advocates for all participants purchasing travel insurance, so much so, it’s a mandatory requirement for the first six months of your placement. Don’t worry, we have some connections in this space and can offer you some decent savings upon request.

Yes, you will need to apply for a NIN (National Insurance Number) which is basically a tax file number. We will provide you with some detailed instructions in obtaining this and of course your employer in the UK can point you in the right direction. This cannot be sorted prior to your arrival in the UK.

To live and work in the UK you will need either a British/Irish passport or you will need to apply for a working holiday type visa. Please see below for the costs for the two different visa types, Youth Mobility Scheme Visa and British Ancestry Visa.

Tier 5 Youth Mobility visa

To be eligible for this visa you must be between 18-35 years at the time of travel, and be a citizen of one of the following countries:

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Monaco
  • New Zealand
  • San Marino

The YMS visa a 2-year visa with the opportunity to extend for another 12 months from within the UK.

The Tier 5 Youth Mobility visa will cost £298 + the International Health Surcharge Fee of £1,552. The International Health Surcharge is a mandatory fee for non-British / Irish passport holders and forms part of the UK visa requirement. It is an unavoidable cost.

The British High Commission requires you to have the equivalent of £2530 or more in available savings. You will need a bank statement o as documentary evidence. These funds are required in your own account for 28-days prior to your visa lodgement.

At some VFS Global offices, there may be additional service charges to cover the courier costs of sending your application away for processing.

Ancestry Visa

To be eligible for this visa you must be 17 years or older, a Commonwealth citizen and have a grandparent was who born in the UK.

The Ancestry Visa will cost you £637 with a International Health Surcharge Fee of – £5175. This is a 5-year visa.

The British High Commission requires you to have the equivalent of £2500 or more in available savings. You will need a bank statement or a letter from your bank as documentary evidence.

For full information visit GOV.UK

If you’re a British or an Irish passport holder you do not require a visa to work in the UK.

Yes, we can certainly line you up with a UK bank account ahead of your arrival. About 6 weeks from your intended departure date we will send you all the relevant information required to obtain a UK bank account – it’s pretty straight forward!

The fee includes:

  • Your placement as an assistant at a leading UK Activity Centre, carefully selected by our team (we visit our host placements annually to ensure their continued suitability to host our participants)
  • Food and accommodation provided for the duration of your placement
  • Our famous ‘Orientation’ program which is held prior to the commencement of your placement
  • Orientation includes, 2 nights accommodation, meals, training course + you meet countless other participants!
  • A dedicated ‘Country Manager’ who will be your key point of contact in the lead up to and throughout the full duration of your placement with us
  • Local UK mobile phone SIM card
  • Access to a variety of discounted tours throughout the UK and Europe to enjoy during your time abroad
  • Gappie support group to meet others on the programme prior to departure

The cost varies and is dependent on the participants’ individual circumstances. However to give you a high-level guide, please see below;

Letz Live Programme Fee: AUD$2,690.00

Additional costs to third parties;

  • One-way Flights: AUD$2,000 – AUD$2,500.00
  • Comprehensive Travel Insurance: AUD$500.00 – AUD$1,300.00
  • Visa Cost (not required if you hold a British or Irish passport): AUD$3,500.00
  • Police Certificates: AUD $50 – 100.00

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Paid Gap Year in the United Kingdom – Activity Assistant

Experience working abroad in the United Kingdom

Apply now for our 2026 intake commencing in March/April. Applications close in...
Start Application
Application fee: $125 AUD
Application Closing Date: 31st July, 2025
  • Full-time paid employment with training and support.
  • Accommodation and meals provided on-site .
  • Placements based all across England, Scotland and Wales.
Application fee: $125 AUD

Need more information or help with your application? Contact us.

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