I think it does that by default yeah (i say ‘think’ because I’ve been customizing for a little while now and can’t remember 100% what is default). But I’m fairly sure, 95%, that what you are describing is default.
I’ve basically started from zero knowledge on Buddypress and used the forum & Codex for help to progress. Other users and moderators have usually posted relevant stuff and have helped me out on things too. So no php skills shouldn’t hurt unless you want to customize heavily. Lots of code is scattered around the forums.
