Associate Organisations

NYFTE

From 2026 to 2029, we have committed to supporting NYFTE (National Youth Folk Troupe of England) with a contribution to the organisation’s core funding. This will support existing training and performance activities for team members, and enable them to continue to work with artists and tutors from across a broad spectrum of the folk arts.

We are also pleased to be able to offer NYFTE alumni dedicated bursaries for our courses to allow them to continue to access learning and development opportunities, even after their time with the group is over.

NYFTE is a talented group of young people aged between 10 and 18 with a passion for English traditional song, music and dance. Their performances are a mixture of traditional material complemented by modern items in keeping with the tradition. Teaching is undertaken by NYFTE leaders, experienced team members or visiting tutors, whilst musical accompaniment is all performed by team members. Their repertoire reflects the huge variety of traditions that can be found across England.

Chippenham Folk Festival

Since 2024, we have worked with Chippenham Folk Festival to support their main stage in the beautiful St Andrew’s Church, at the top of the high street. Chippenham is one of our most ‘local’ large festivals, and their ethos of participation for all, coupled with their varied programme, makes them a great cultural match for Halsway’s work.

Sidmouth Folk Festival

We have a long running partnership with Sidmouth Folk Festival, where our Young Folk Intermediate group get to show off their creativity and the results of all their hard work at the end of their workshop week at the manor.

Shrewsbury Folk Festival

We’re excited to partner with Shrewsbury Folk Festival, sponsoring their Dance Spot — a relaxed, welcoming space for everyone to join in, try something new, or just enjoy watching. Dance is at the heart of the festival, and this partnership reflects our shared commitment to participation, learning, and keeping folk culture inclusive and alive.

Priddy Folk Festival

We have a long-standing relationship with Priddy Folk Festival, who fund provide bursaries for young people taking part in their ‘Priddy Rising’ project to join us at Halsway for our Halsway Young Folk Intermediate course in the summer. Through them, we have been fortunate to meet some wonderful young musicians over the years.