Folk School Program
In the 200-year old tradition of the Danish Folkehøjskole, the Belle Ame Center Folk School Program is a place for young adults to awaken the inner life in a multi-week residential program with inspiring teachers and peers who share a common culture and aim.
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Folk School students leave behind personal electronic devices to take classes and workshops, participate in the artful living events on campus, and help maintain and beautify campus grounds and facilities. We eat together, work together, learn together, laugh together, and together nurture beautiful souls.
AWAKEN THE INNER LIFE
What is the Folk School like?
Non-competitive
Folk School classes do not give grades or credits. There is no standard or rigid curriculum. Students engage out of a deep desire to enrich their soul and come alive to the beauty, wonder, and majesty of beauty and truth.
Life-long Learning
This isn't about degrees or qualifications, but development that lasts a lifetime. Any person over age 18 is welcome to apply. Classes typically include arts, music, philosophy, history, social sciences, agriculture, and handcrafts.
Community Living
Students and program directors live together, sharing meals, classes, cultural events, and campus work. Our moto is "Non sibi sed allis" - Not for self only, but for others. Together we enjoy storytelling, singing, workshops, and outdoor exploration
The Living Word
While books have a place, the Folk School prioritizes learning through "the living word" with inspiring teachers. This often takes the form of a forum, discussion, seminar, or hands-on instruction.