People taking a career break want to learn new skills and do something during their time off that will give them a sense of achievement, says Amanda Ribbins, marketing manager of Flying Fish.

Obtaining an internationally recognised qualification will definitely give a sense of achievement, Ribbins told the One Life show that took place in London in March.

More than 60% of people take a course with Flying Fish because they are training for a new career, she says. And around 50% of people who take a course do not return to their old lives.

Programmes can be intensive, but include time for relaxation and exploration of the local areas.

Flying Fish holds preview days in London, UK, for people considering a gap year, a career break, or a career in water sports or snow sports. The preview days are an opportunity to meet Flying Fish trainers, careers advisers and ex-Flying Fish students.

The company trains and recruits sailing, diving, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, skiing and snowboard instructors in the UK, Australia, Canada, Greece, Cyprus and Egypt.