We are a unique progressive educational movement for children and young people – both girls and boys - designed to develop self-confidence and activity in society, with the aim of building a world based on equality, peace, social justice and co-operation.
Through its activities, Woodcraft Folk tries to give its members an understanding of important issues such as the environment, world debt and global conflict, with a key focus in recent years being sustainable development.
The Woodcraft Folk was established as an educational movement in 1925, and was run entirely by young people. We operate in England, Scotland and Wales.
Contrary to the myths that surround our name, we do not under normal circumstances, hug trees or craft wood. The name 'woodcraft' was used by the influential writer and naturalist Ernest Thompson Seton at the turn of the twentieth century. Woodcraft in this context meant the skill of living in the open air, close to nature. The Woodcraft Folk, like other youth movements, traces its origins back to Ernest Thompson Seton's pioneering work with North American young people
Woodcraft Folk groups meet weekly, enjoying a varied programme including games, drama, discussion, projects, crafts, singing and dancing, as well as following an educational programme based on awareness of issues both local and global.
We organise hostelling and camping activities for two nights at weekends throughout the year and camping is a large focus in the summer holidays. Opportunities for international camps and exchanges are also open to young people.
The organisation provides an informal and supportive environment for young people to develop their ideas, share experiences, explore opportunities and make life-long friends in their locality and beyond.