SERVICE DETAILS
Elfins...
Ranging in age from six to nine, Elfins is where many young people start their Woodcraft Folk journey.
A varied programme of activities helps Elfin-age children discover their local environment, learn to co-operate, and express their opinions.
Making Big Ideas Accessible
The programme in an Elfin group will include everything from high-energy games to reflective discussions, helping young members grow in confidence and work with others. Activities often introduce important concepts and ideas in an age-appropriate way, such as exploring Fairtrade by cooking or baking together. Games and other activities will tend to emphasise taking part and working well together, rather than competition and individual achievement, embedding Woodcraft Folk’s co-operative ethos.
Everyone’s Welcome
We aim to make Woodcraft Folk accessible for everyone, and our volunteers are skilled at shaping a programme of activities that is inclusive of all abilities. Volunteers lead activities for our young members, or help behind the scenes. Many of the volunteers who run Elfin groups are parents or carers of children in the group - but it’s not essential by any means!
What happens in the group?
Many groups will plan their programme for the term around a theme, and Elfins will often have a chance to pick favourite activities or games to include. Popular Elfin activities include:
- Trying a new craft activity like screen printing or badgemaking
- Drama games and activities
- Laying and following a trail around the neighbourhood
- Visiting a local park or green space to learn about nature
Pioneers...
Pioneers are aged between ten to twelve. As their knowledge and understanding of the world increases, activities are geared towards helping them think critically and become more independent.
Active and Imaginative
Physical activities such as energetic games are often an important part of Pioneer programme, but groups will also explore big ideas through discussion and debate, helping young people become confident expressing their opinions. Young people will be actively involved in shaping the a programme that addresses their interests.
A Supportive Environment
At a time when much is changing in young people’s lives, a Pioneer group can provide a stable and supportive peer group for our young members. A wide range of volunteers support the running of Pioneer groups, enabling young people to have positive relationships with adults that are rooted in mutual respect and shared values.
What happens in the group?
Pioneers will be actively involved in setting themes or suggesting activities for their group, but groups activities could include:
- Learning bushcraft or survival skills
- Playing a simulation game to learn about global trade
- ‘Wide games’ such as Capture the Flag in a local park or woodland
- Planning a small camp or a trip to one of Woodcraft Folk’s residential centres
Send us a message at https://woodcraft.org.uk/groups/leith-foxes-elfins-pioneers.
