Making a Gap Year Count: Will Thomas (’24)
A gap year can mean many things — travel, work or simply taking time out before the next stage of life. By stepping into Westminster’s AFL SportsReady Traineeship program, Will Thomas (’24) chose to invest his time in giving back to the School community while building valuable skills for his own future.
After finishing Year 12 in 2024, Will has spent 2025 working across both the Senior School and Prep School, sharing his time evenly between Physical Education and the Co-Curricular program.
Head of Prep Nick Warren said his dedication, enthusiasm and maturity have quickly made him a valued role model and mentor for younger students.
“Will is a fabulous role model for our Prep School students. He engages them in the Year 2–6 Football Development Program where he has been instrumental in the explicit teaching of the skills these children require at a young age to play the game.”
Will has also supported Prep School PE classes, particularly with students who benefit from additional assistance. By providing early intervention, he is helping children to build confidence, grow in resilience and reach their potential.
“He does so much more than we could mention, but the most impressive thing above anything else is that as a product of Westminster, he has turned very quickly into a fine young man who is capable of any task that we set for him. He undertakes everything with a positive attitude and as a true professional. He understands what a quality education looks like for current Westminster students and is doing what he can to help deliver that.”
Will’s decision to spend his gap year in such a purposeful way shows how valuable this time can be. For students considering their own path beyond Year 12, a traineeship offers the chance to gain real-world experience, build leadership skills and contribute to the School community. Westminster is proud to support opportunities like this, helping Old Scholars shape meaningful career pathways.
Applications are now open for the 2026 AFL SportsReady Traineeship. Find out more at AFL SportsReady.