Learning pathways
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Introducing SWIFTS
The SWIFTS (Scottish Women’s Institutes Framework for Textile Skills / Food Technologies) is a friendly, step-by-step learning pathway for members to grow their skills and confidence together, starting at beginner level through to judging level and moving forward at a manageable pace.
Each SWIFTS pathway includes:
- An online introduction to meet your tutor and learn more about the SWIFTS pathway you have chosen.
- Three learning sessions, across a hybrid online & in person format, providing you with all the skills you need to succeed in your chosen SWIFTS pathway.
- A standardised handbook, created by our skilled SWI member tutors to ensure your learning is clear, centralised, and easy to follow. Inside, you’ll find everything you need – from materials and course structure to learning outcomes and assessment criteria.
Beginner courses
Tutor: Helen Gibson
Venue: Kilmaronock Millennium Hall
Duration: 12 weeks (30th September – late November/December)
Study mode: Blended (in-person and online)
Assessment: Formal assessment with feedback
This course provides a structured introduction to embroidery, requiring no prior experience or specialist knowledge. Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will develop foundational stitching techniques through a blended learning model combining two in-person practical workshops with continuous online support and guidance.
Every participant receives individual feedback and an official SWIFTS Certificate upon completion.
Course Cost
• Members: £95
• Non-members: £130
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Tutor: Anne Howat
Venue: Kyle Community Church of Scotland
Duration: 12 weeks (8th September – late October/November)
Study mode: Blended (in-person and online)
Assessment: Formal assessment with feedback
This course provides a structured introduction to sugarcraft, requiring no prior experience or specialist knowledge. Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will develop foundational sugarcraft techniques through a blended learning model combining two in-person practical workshops with continuous online support and guidance.
Every participant receives individual feedback and an official SWIFTS Certificate upon completion.
Course Cost
• Members: £95
• Non-members: £130
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Tutor: Fiona Meade
Venue: St. Andrew’s Parish Church
Duration: 12 weeks (13th October – late December)
Study mode: Blended (in-person and online)
Assessment: Formal assessment with feedback
This course provides a structured introduction to crochet, suitable both for complete beginners and for those with some crochet experience looking to consolidate their technique, including reading charts and patterns. Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will develop foundational crochet skills through a blended learning model combining three in-person practical workshops with continuous online support and guidance.
Every participant receives individual feedback and an official SWIFTS Certificate upon completion.
Course Cost
• Members: £95
• Non-members: £130
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Tutor: Susie Finlayson
Venue: The Wonky Giraffe, Kelso
Duration: 12 weeks (8th October – late November/December)
Study mode: Blended (in-person and online)
Assessment: Formal assessment with feedback
This course provides a structured introduction to embroidery, requiring no prior experience or specialist knowledge. Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will develop foundational stitching techniques through a blended learning model combining two in-person practical workshops with continuous online support and guidance.
Every participant receives individual feedback and an official SWIFTS Certificate upon completion.
Course Cost
• Members: £95
• Non-members: £130
SIGN UP
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Become a member
Join a vibrant community where you can connect with like-minded women, learn new skills and socialise. Many members say their life has been enhanced with lifelong learning, fun, and the friendships they have made along the way.
