7-9 September 2027
Birmingham, UK – Educators, community leaders, researchers, and changemakers from across Europe and beyond will gather at Fircroft College of Adult Education from 7-9 September 2027 for the second International Folkemøde for Educators, a unique three-day event celebrating democratic learning, civic participation, and the transformative power of education.
Inspired by the Danish tradition of Folkemødet (“The People’s Meeting”), the event will bring together practitioners from folk high schools, adult education institutions, community learning organisations, universities, and civil society groups to explore how education can strengthen democracy, sustainability, social cohesion, and community-led change.
Hosted on Fircroft College’s historic residential campus in south Birmingham, the International Folkemøde for Educators will create a vibrant space for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation. Participants will engage in workshops, study circles, debates, cultural activities, outdoor learning experiences, and collaborative problem-solving sessions focused on some of the most pressing challenges facing communities today.
The programme will explore themes including:
- Democratic participation and active citizenship
- Folk high school traditions and lifelong learning
- Climate action and environmental justice education
- Community development, wealth building and social innovation
- Inclusion, belonging, and social and racial justice
- Global citizenship and international collaboration
- Wellbeing, resilience, and transformative learning
Drawing on educational traditions from across the Nordic countries, Europe, and beyond, the event aims to strengthen international partnerships while showcasing innovative approaches that empower people to shape their communities and societies.
Dr Melanie Lenehan, Principal and CEO of Fircroft College, said:
“At a time when societies are facing profound social, environmental, and democratic challenges, we need spaces where people can come together to learn, listen, and imagine new possibilities. The International Folkemøde for Educators will celebrate education not simply as a pathway to employment, but as a force for democracy, participation, community empowerment, and hope. We are delighted to welcome colleagues from around the world to Birmingham to share ideas, build relationships, and inspire future action.”
The event builds on Fircroft College’s long-standing commitment to residential adult learning and its growing international partnerships with folk high schools, community education providers, and organisations working for social and environmental justice.
A particular focus will be placed on the role of informal and non-formal education in supporting democratic renewal and fostering more sustainable and inclusive communities. Participants will have opportunities to share practice, develop new partnerships, and participate in collaborative learning experiences rooted in dialogue and mutual exchange.
The International Folkemøde for Educators is expected to attract delegates from across Europe, North America, and other regions, creating a diverse international learning community united by a shared belief in the power of education to transform lives and societies.
Registration and programme details will be announced in early 2027.
About Fircroft College
Founded in 1909, Fircroft College is one of the UK’s leading residential adult education colleges. Based in Birmingham, the College is committed to empowering individuals and communities through transformative learning, social action, and lifelong education. Through its programmes, partnerships, and international engagement, Fircroft supports learners to develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to create positive change in their communities.
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Fircroft College of Adult Education
Email:marketing@fircroft.ac.uk
Website: www.fircroft.ac.uk
