The Woodcraft Folk have an Elfin group (6-9 years) in Bitterne Park which meets every Tuesday evening in term time and which welcomes new children.
Woodcraft Folk is a children’s and young people’s organisation with groups across the UK that meet weekly during term time and go camping in the holidays to learn about big ideas and participate in activities like craft, singing and games. The organisation is inclusive: open to all young people who want to join. It is non-religious, has girls and boys together and is committed to positive social change. Woodcraft Folk is a cooperative, and involves the young people at all levels in the organisation, from the General Council down to planning a group's activities.
The word “Woodcraft” means the skills developed by humans over time to live in harmony with the natural world, such as bush-craft, camping, fire lighting etc. Today it also includes global ideas like co-operation, democracy, equality, internationalism and care for the planet.
Parent participation
The Elfin group in Bitterne Park, for ages 6-9 years, is run cooperatively and relies on parental support. Many parents enjoy participating in the group along with their children but this is not a requirement! Children under 6 years old are also welcome to attend as long as a parent/carer stays with them. Costs are kept to a minimum and the group charges only £2/session or £20 for a term.
A new group for Elfins is also starting in September at the Ropewalk Centre, Derby Road near the RSH Hospital. It will be meeting on Saturday afternoons and there are free taster sessions on the 14th, 21st and 28th September from 2-4pm.
Woodcraft Folk in Southampton also has groups for older children: Pioneers (10-12 years) and Venturers (13-15 years). The video below was made by the Venturers at a recent Summer camp where all the groups meet:
Woodcraft Folk - Venturer film from chloe darlington on Vimeo.
For more information, please contact Celia Sanders on 023 8178 0709 or visit Southampton Woodcraft Folk's Facebook page.