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Unwrapping the cotton wool - how pupils can learn to manage risk

Two girls on an abseil wall giving each other a high five

Oftsted's Chief Inspector, Amanda Spielman wrote recently about the risk-averse culture developing in some schools and why it's important for school leaders to distinguish between real and imagined risk so pupils can explore the world around them, without being wrapped in cotton wool.

At PGL, we think it's important that all young people are able to identify 'genuine' risk and have the confidence to act, to keep themselves and their peers safe. Because that's what it's all about really; growing up, becoming independent, learning to make decisions, picking yourself up, dusting yourself off and thinking 'how could I do that better next time?'. It's about feeling 10 feet tall when you achieve something you never thought possible.

And that's exactly what many children bring back from their PGL experience. Yes, they might return a little more tired (and substantially grubbier!) than when they arrived but they may also be more confident; about everything from trying new foods to making choices and embracing new experiences.

Learning when to take risks and when to be cautious is key. Taking part in adventurous activities in a managed environment (like a PGL centre) is a great way to help young people practise this skill. Experiencing setbacks as well as successes can enable them to be more resilient to better manage and assess risk in the future.

These are skills that young people will need throughout their lives in everything from subject choices at school, to navigating their path through education and into employment. To be able to recognise opportunities and possibilities and not only take the well-trodden path but assess risk, discover and explore, to forge their own journey.

Find out more about how a PGL experience can benefit primary and secondary school pupils.

By PGL Travel.