Build resilience.
Fun, adventure-based life skills residentials for ages 12+
Subsidised pilot programmes for 2025
Transition from education to employment
As young people face growing challenges - from mental health to future uncertainty - our Skills4Life programme builds resilience, raises aspirations and teaches essential skills for a more confident future.
Blending outdoor adventure with structured, research-backed learning, it aligns with the Skills Builder Framework, is Level 3 accredited, adaptable, and proven to make a real impact.
What is it?
• 3 or 5 day residential programmes
• Tailored for young people 12+
• Life, nutrition & employability skills
• Available at 16 UK centres, on selected dates in 2026
Learning outcomes
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Creativity
• Critical Thinking
The Skills Builder Universal Framework is focused on developing essential life skills for both personal and professional development. The platform breaks down complex skills into smaller, manageable steps, making them easier to learn and track progress.
Our Skills4life programme is an outcome-driven adventure residential programme, designed to develop 21st century skills in a fun and accessible way. How does it work?
Three core modules, infinite possibilities
Each core learning module is designed to target specific skill sets for measureable growth and lasting impact.
Adventure with purpose
From Raft Building and Giant SUP to Jacob’s Ladder; each adventure activity is adapted to support specific skill development and complement the core modules.
Reflect, Record & Recharge
Reflection campfires are a chance to share stories, insights and breakthroughs. Personal journals will track progress, set goals and evidence the impact.
Sample 5 day programme
FOOD 4 THOUGHT EPIC CHALLENGE FOR LOVE OR MONEY
In this full-day activity, groups explore how to use their voice to inspire change and boost their career.
With a set budget and resources, teams must work together to build a shelter, light a fire, and cook together - developing resilience, creativity, and collaboration in a hands-on, rewarding experience.
Learners record their progress in a take-away journal for evidence of
AFTERNOON
DAY ONE
GROUP CONTRACT & GOAL SETTING
JACOB’S LADDER
Groups use their communication and collaboration skills to get everyone to the top.
They’ll learn to speak with passion and build confidence in communication and body language as they pitch a business using their new skills.
RAFT BUILDING
Adapted with extra challenges to build resilience, collaboration and problem solving skills.
Throughout the day, there’ll be a series of exciting challenges designed to help the group build key life & employability skills (such as critical thinking), strengthen team bonds, and prepare them for future success.
Evidenced using the Skills Builder Universal framework 2.0 and resilience & wellbeing scale improvements (CDRSC10/SWEMWBS).
EVENING
Our centres
Your base for a comfortable stay
90% accommodation en suite
We cater for a range of dietary needs
Support for groups with additional needs
FIND A CENTRE NEAR YOU ...
1. Perthshire, Dalguise
2. Northumberland - Ford Castle
Our Centres UK
3. North Yorkshire - Newby Wiske Hall
4. Lancashire - Winmarleigh Hall
5. South Yorkshire - Dearne Valley*
6. Shropshire - Boreatton Park
7. Linconshire - Caythorpe Court
8. Norfolk - Overstrand Hall
9. Suffolk - Bawdsey Manor
10. Wiltshire - Liddington
11. Surrey - Marchants Hill
12. Kent - Grosvenor Hall*
13. Sussex - Windmill Hill
14. Dorset - Osmington Bay
15. Isle of Wight - Little Canada
16. South Devon - Barton Hall
Our team can provide a competitive quote for coach travel. We’re also happy to arrange ferry transport for groups travelling to our centre on the Isle of Wight.
Why choose PGL?
• Fully aligned with the Skills Builder Framework
• Expert facilitators and qualified outdoor instructors
• Safe, inclusive and inspiring environments
• Purpose-built facilities for group residentials
• Highest standards of safety & safeguarding
Bring your youth leadership team for a taster session of our Skills4Life programme - the perfect retreat to promote reflection and teambuilding within your organisation.
