When it comes to developing important life skills for Scouts, few experiences are as enriching and unforgettable as a PGL group residential trip. We offer an adventure-filled space where young people can discover new strengths, face challenges head-on, and grow into confident, capable individuals. From survival techniques to leadership, let’s explore the five life skills every Scout learns at PGL.
Five life skills for Scouts
1. Survival skills
Survival is one of the most fundamental skills every Scout should learn. From building shelters to learning how to navigate in the wild, Scouts are taught how to thrive in various environments. These survival skills extend beyond the campsite, providing essential knowledge like fire-lighting, finding water sources, and even basic first aid.
At PGL, Scouts gain hands-on experience with wilderness survival, learning how to be resourceful and self-sufficient through thrilling activities like orienteering or bushcraft. Moreover, these Scouts’ skills for life don’t just apply to emergencies in nature either—they also cultivate a mindset of problem-solving and adaptability that they can use in their daily lives.
2. Teamwork skills
Working together as a team is at the core of Scouting, and it’s one of the critical life skills for Scouts that is honed at PGL. From high-ropes courses to more water-based activities like canoeing, Scouts are constantly placed in situations where teamwork is essential. The ability to collaborate effectively, communicate openly, and support fellow Scouts is emphasised in nearly every task.
They discover how to divide tasks based on individual strengths and weaknesses, resolve conflicts in a positive way, and achieve common goals. Overall, these experiences help Scouts build the cooperative skills they need for group settings, whether in school, clubs, or future jobs.
3. Leadership skills
One of the standout life skills for Scouts that PGL nurtures is leadership. Through various exercises, Scouts learn how to motivate others, delegate responsibilities, and stay calm under pressure. For example, during a challenge like Jacob’s Ladder, a Scout might step up to encourage team members as they climb and help coordinate their moves to ensure everyone succeeds together.
These activities help Scouts grow into confident leaders who know how to inspire and support their team. Leadership at PGL goes beyond simply giving directions—it’s about learning to lead by example, taking responsibility, and showing others the way through actions, not just words.
4. Interpersonal skills
Effective communication and strong relationships are central, and PGL offers the perfect environment to sharpen these interpersonal skills. Scouting at PGL teaches young people how to engage with others in a meaningful way, building positive relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
Beyond the camp setting, it also equips Scouts to handle social situations in school and life. Being able to connect with others on a deeper level is one of the most valuable life skills Scouts take away from their PGL experience.
5. Independence skills
One of the most empowering aspects of a residential trip is the emphasis on independence. For many Scouts, PGL is their first time away from home without family, and this experience fosters a sense of self-reliance and autonomy. From managing their own belongings to making choices during activities, Scouts learn how to be responsible for themselves—without instruction from parents.
As a result, they quickly gain confidence in their ability to handle new situations, adapt to challenges, and trust their own judgement. In short, independence is one of the key Scouts’ skills for life that PGL helps nurture.
Learn life skills at a PGL Scouts camp!
From teamwork to independence, the Scouts’ skills for life gained at PGL provide young people with the essential tools they need to succeed and thrive in any situation.
Ready to see your Scout grow? Book your next Scout camp today! With everything included—accommodation, meals, equipment, and a wide range of adventure activities tailored to your unit’s needs—PGL has everything covered for an unforgettable experience on a group adventure.
If you have any questions, get in touch with our friendly and experienced team.
Don’t forget to explore our range of other group residential trips, including Girlguiding residentials, Youth Club & Trusts residentials, and Other Uniform residentials.
