Residential Volunteering Programme Overview The Scout Adventures Residential Volunteering Programme offers young adults aged 18 and above the opportunity to immerse themselves in a year of adventure, personal growth, and hands-on experience working with young people. Designed for both UK-based and international applicants, the programme develops confident activity instructors who learn through practical engagement and community living. With a history of over 100 years of youth development, the Scouts continue to cultivate leaders by providing dynamic environments where outdoor adventure builds essential life skills. Residential placements for the 2026 cohort run from January to November. Volunteers join a diverse team delivering high-quality outdoor experiences to thousands of young people. Each participant becomes part of a large international community, often forming lasting friendships while gaining valuable qualifications and real-world instructing experience. Programme Expectations Volunteers commit to an average of 35 hours per week across five days. Work patterns vary by season, with quieter winter periods and busy summer months. Evenings and weekends may be included, and volunteers receive up to 18 days off during the placement. Applications are open globally, welcoming individuals from Europe, the UK, and across the world who are ready to contribute to a vibrant environment of learning and adventure. Benefits and Development Opportunities By the end of the programme, volunteers will have developed a strong professional portfolio supported by formal training, practical experience, and leadership development. Benefits include: A comprehensive induction covering instructing skills, first aid, safeguarding, and customer service. The opportunity to live on-site with a large, diverse team of residential volunteers. Full meals and uniform provided throughout the placement. A weekly allowance of £45 and reimbursement of direct expenses. The chance to log extensive hands-on experience instructing various outdoor activities. The opportunity to develop centre-specific skills, understand operational processes, and contribute creatively to site enhancements. Volunteers frequently describe the programme as transformative, offering opportunities to learn new skills, gain confidence, and build meaningful connections with people from around the world. Application Process The volunteering journey begins with completing the online application form. Candidates must provide contact information for someone who can write a recommendation letter—typically a Scout leader, teacher, or sports coach. Once both the application and reference are submitted, a review is conducted. Successful applicants are invited to a 15–20 minute online interview. This informal conversation allows both the candidate and the Scout Adventures team to exchange questions and clarify expectations. Applicants may seek assistance by emailing volunteering@scoutadventures.org.uk if needed. Arrival and Initial Training All full-time volunteers begin their experience with a structured training course, usually delivered at Gilwell Park. After acceptance, applicants receive their training dates and support with preparing travel arrangements. International volunteers requiring visas receive a Certificate of Sponsorship to facilitate the process. Most volunteers arrive the weekend before training begins and are collected from the nearest airport, train station, or bus station. The initial training is an immersive five-day course involving 30 to 40 participants. Volunteers are grouped into teams led by a mentor and a trainer. Training is practical and action-oriented, introducing participants to the core elements of activity instruction and centre life. The week concludes with a celebratory campfire and the formal induction of each volunteer into the Scout Adventures community. Volunteering Experience Following initial training, volunteers join one of the adventure centres and begin role-specific preparation. The first few weeks involve extensive activity training to equip volunteers to lead sessions safely and confidently. Individuals with particular strengths or creative interests are encouraged to contribute to projects that enhance the site experience. Past volunteers have designed climbing wall artwork, built team-building structures, and developed garden spaces. Volunteers continue to build their skills throughout the placement and contribute actively to the delivery of memorable adventures for young people. Application Requirements To complete the application process, candidates must upload: Membership confirmation from their national Scout or Guide organisation (if applicable). A reference letter from a school, university, or employer. A clear photo. A short two-minute introduction video. Applicants must be at least 18 when applying for a visa and possess a good standard of English. Available Centres Placements are distributed across five adventure centres: Broadstone Warren, East Sussex Fordell Firs, Edinburgh Gilwell Park, London Great Tower, Lake District Youlbury, Oxford Each centre offers a unique environment, from woodland settings to cultural hubs, all dedicated to providing exceptional outdoor experiences. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the volunteering organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.