Co-operative educational charity Woodcraft Folk is staging a major youth camp at its 18 acre Biblins campsite.
The youth camp brings together Woodcraft Folk members aged 13-15 – known as venturers – for a week of events, which include activities around sustainability, arts and crafts, and peace. With a radio station at the camp making regular broadcasts, young people also get direct hands-on experience of radio skills.
The camps are held every three years and are organised and run by young adult members of the organisation, in partnership with the Venturers themselves.
Mike Lawrence, manager of Biblins Youth Campsite, says: “This is the first time the Woodcraft Folk has been able to host a large-scale event on its own campsite, and we’re looking forward to introducing young people from around the country to our beautiful Gloucestershire countryside.”
Wooodraft Folk has been managing Biblins since 2018. During this time, it has transformed facilities on the site, including the planting of new trees and the installation of solar powered lighting for the toilet blocks.
In June the charity launched a crowdfunding campaign to rebuild the old Bunkhouse on the site, which is now unsafe for use.
“There’s a real sense of things moving forward at Biblins,” added Mr Lawrence, “thanks to the voluntary efforts of so many people. The campsite here has always been in a superb location, but we know that, with a little TLC, we can make the experience of camping here an even better one.
“Biblins offers camping facilities throughout the year for other youth organisations and group camps.”
Pip Sayers, chair of the Woodcraft Folk’s General Council and one of the camp organisers, said: “Youth voices are key to the whole event. A committee of Venturers has been meeting regularly to discuss such things as the menu on offer and the workshops and activities.”
Youngsters are also learning about astronomy since individual camp ‘villages’ have been named after stars and constellations.
Founded in 1925, the Woodcraft Folk aims to develop children’s self-confidence and build their awareness of society around them. The charity is inviting local people to join the camp activities today, 8 August. Workshops will take place between 1pm and 5pm.
