I am considering taking a gap year after I finish my A levels this summer (i.e. during academic year 2016-17), and applying for PPE at Oxford (+4 other universities) for entry in 2017. I want to read a great deal of books that I haven't had time to read, and will likely not have time to read whilst at university. It is an extensive list.
I want to finish reading the works of Bertrand Russell which I began a year ago. I want to read Ricardo's OtPoPEaT, the rest of Irving Fisher's books (3 more to go), Keynes' Essays in Persuasion, more of Mises' works alongside those of Rothbard. I want to re-read Hayek's Prices and Production and Road to Serfdom, and more relevant books - as well as less relevant reads like Rhetorica ad Herennium.
I am also considering taking A2 maths and AS and A2 further maths (edexcel) because I have recently discovered great enjoyment in maths and this relevant fourth A level will keep my abilities on point and perhaps strengthen my application as well as fill up my time. Furthermore, if I have time, I may get a part time job just for some cash - nothing relevant to the course.
This is the most academically relevant and academically effective use of a gap year that I can think of. However, would this be sufficient cause, in the view of Oxford tutors, to take a gap year, and would it make me a suitable candidate? People often pursue voluntary work and work experience during gap years. However, there is little chance of me doing anything half as academically relevant as what I've already considered doing. Having said that, I could be mistaken.
Any advice and clarification would be very helpful and greatly appreciated.