Exceptional Gap Semester Experiences
Ricky is the proud owner of Europe Gap Year. A local to Portrush, he has settled back where it all began with his wife and two children. Ricky has travelled across the world, and continues to do so, drawing inspiration from all the amazing people he meets. Europe Gap Year is an opportunity for him to enable others in their personal journey, growing as an individual through cultural immersion, acceptance of responsibility and making new friends and connections.
Jules, Ricky’s wife, is the machine in the background of Europe Gap Year. Jules is from Glasgow originally and met Ricky when he lived in Scotland. They both moved to Australia together and lived there for 5 years before she relocated to Portrush. Jules loves the pace of life on the coast and believes it is the perfect spot to raise her family – making sure they have plenty of opportunities to travel and visit new places along the way.
Katie is the ultimate gap year program leader! A keen surfer (and surfing instructor), photographer, videographer and explorer she loves everything about her job – from exploring new cities to helping students settle into Irish culture and lifestyle.
Carol-Anne is our new program leader joining us for the upcoming program. She is from the nearby city of Derry, ready with local knowledge for students looking to head into the city for a day out.
Conor is your access to living like a local. On a gap year himself, Conor is also a surfing instructor, at Ricky’s surf school. Always excited to meet his next group of students. Conor helps you make friends, surf, socialise and can even let you into the local secret spots!
Carla is a mentor, surfing instructor, mum and the top dog of Wave Project NI – a charity helping young people through surf therapy. Carla welcomes students to join her team, have a laugh and learn new skills – all while living the Portrush lifestyle.
Rocky is quite simply the coolest dog in town and is always there to support the whole team whenever they need it. He is a Cavapoo who bounces with energy and good vibes and adds his own bit of fun and mayhem to every day at EuropeGap.