Grade 8 is an important transition year. As girls prepare to move into high school, they naturally begin asking bigger questions about who they are, where they belong and who they are becoming. The Golden Thread Fair has been designed to support them through this stage by helping them discover the strengths, values, passions and personal truths alongside someone they trust who can help guide the way.

The experience centres on a grade 8 girl, however, many fair companions are reminded of what life and times were like when she was 14, where life took her and what might be possible next. We all carry many stories, many of which have wisdom.  The discovery is in life patterns and that time may change, but people do not. 

A Fair Companion is a trusted older family member, who shares a meaningful connection with the student taking part in the Fair. This may be a grandmother, great-aunt, godmother, trusted family friend or another significant woman who has experienced life and knows the family stories well.  

Her most important qualities are a willingness to listen, share stories and give space to her young fair companion to express her thoughts and ideas. 

The Golden Thread Fair has six tents and a celebration marquee. The fair will run for a period of 8 weeks allowing families to enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace. Each session takes approximately 30–90 minutes, depending on how much time you choose to spend reflecting and talking together.

There is no rush. Some of the most meaningful moments happen in the conversations that continue long after each session has ended.

No. The Golden Thread Fair is not affiliated with any religion or faith tradition.

It is a values-based, intergenerational experience that encourages reflection, storytelling, creativity and meaningful conversations. Families from all backgrounds, cultures and beliefs are welcome to take part.  

While the Fair explores universal themes such as identity, belonging, purpose and connection, each family is free to interpret and discuss these in ways that reflect their own beliefs and traditions.

No. The Golden Thread Fair is an educational experience, not a therapeutic programme.

Through storytelling, creativity and guided conversations, students and their Fair Companions are invited to reflect on strengths, values, family stories and future possibilities. Participation is always voluntary, and families are encouraged to share only what feels comfortable for them.  

The Fair is designed to inspire meaningful conversations, not to provide counselling or mental health support.

The parent or guardian plays an important role in helping the experience run smoothly. Before the Fair begins, you'll receive everything you need, including a simple guide, timeline and practical information.

During the Fair, your role is to encourage participation, help keep everyone on schedule and celebrate your daughter's discoveries. The conversations and activities themselves take place between your daughter and her Fair Companion, allowing their relationship to grow through the shared experience.

The Celebration Ceremony brings together students, Fair Companions, families and the school community to celebrate each student's unique journey through the Fair.

Together, students can share their crests and selected stories if they choose to.

The ceremony is a joyful celebration of every student's journey and a reminder that, although every family has its own story, we are connected by many of the same hopes - for belonging, purpose, connection and becoming the very best version of ourselves..

Life doesn't always go to plan, and that's perfectly okay.

Because each family completes the Fair in their own time, you can simply continue with the next session when you're ready. We encourage you to complete all six tents within an 8 week period and before the Celebration Ceremony so your daughter / young companion can enjoy the full experience.

Yes. No problem. Meeting online with dedicated time together doesn't dilute the experience. It's advised to ensure you have everything you need, find a quiet space where it's just the two of you without interruptions. Have your cameras on and enjoy your time together.

No artistic ability is required. Prompts will be clearly given and there are many ways to express creativity. 

Yes. This is the founder-funded pilot of The Golden Thread Fair .  

While the experience has been thoughtfully designed and carefully prepared, your feedback will play an important role in helping us refine and strengthen the programme for future schools and families.  

We hope you'll enjoy knowing that you're among the very first families to help bring The Golden Thread Fair to life and shape its future.