In just a few weeks’ time, school-leavers will be descending on university towns and cities in their droves, relishing their newfound freedom and embarking on the next stage of their life.

So if you’re a parent, relative or friend who wants to send your loved one on their way with a celebratory gift, here are some things they may love to receive before leaving home.

• Recipe Book

Most teenagers are not a young Jamie Oliver in the kitchen, and have relied on their parents’ cooking over the years. That is why it is a good idea to get them an easy-to-use recipe book that requires little effort and very few ingredients so they are more likely to use it.

You could find it helps them hone their culinary skills so much, they are happy to help out in the kitchen when they come home during the holidays.

• A Laptop

These days, students have their smartphones and tablets to access the internet, catch up on their favourite soaps, or look up something urgently on Google. However, a laptop is still one of the most important items to have at university for those who have to complete written assignments.

Everything is done electronically these days, so ditch the lever arch file and pad of paper and invest in the smallest, lightest portable computer you can find instead.

• Personal Picture

While this is not as useful as the other two gifts, it is one they are sure to love the most. Giving your loved one a personal print or photo that has been set by picture framing experts in London will, no doubt, bring back some great memories whenever they look at it on their wall.

Even though they are ready to flee the nest, students do get homesick from time to time, so having a reminder of their family or mates on their walls will certainly be cherished during those lonelier occasions.