The SWI is passionate about lifelong learning and helping women live their best lives. With a range of online and in-person events such as Skill Share Sessions, Expert Talks, National Events and Competitions and Celebrity Showcases, there's something for everyone!
Evelyn Baxter Scholarship | In-person | SWI Central Office | November 6th-7th
We are pleased to announce that entries to the Evelyn Baxter Scholarship 2026 are now open for all SWI members. All information can be found on the form on how to enter etc.
Currently we are only accepting scholar applications – at this time, no fee-paying pupils will be on this training course. We will open day 2 of training up to members who would like to be taught in a trial session by the tutors but more information will be available closer to the time about this.
The deadline for applications is Monday 20th October, so we encourage potential applicants to submit their forms as soon as possible.
National Competition | Deadline June 26th 2026 | Open for entries
The Vaughan Nash is a national handcraft competition. It celebrates creativity, skill, and presentation in both traditional and modern crafts. Each entry must include five handmade items, displayed together as one exhibit. The items should demonstrate a variety of craft techniques and be arranged to look good as one exhibit and be themed on 'Festivals'.
Online event | Monthly | 6pm-7pm
The Heritage group meet on a monthly basis to drive forward progress for the SWI Heritage project, with an objective on preparing a ready to go collection for the planned Visitor Learning Centre.
Any member is welcomed to join this group, whether you have a specific story to share or simply want to stay informed, to join us for an informal online evening session.
Join the meeting here.
National Competition | Deadline October 27th 2025 | Open for entries
Theme -The Natural World
Harness the potential of your camera in this year's photography competition. We encourage members to delve into the theme of 'The Natural World' by entering your compelling photos. You can enter 3 photos per £10 entry.
Click here to register and pay on Beacon - Have fun and good luck!
In person | October 11 | Pitcairn Centre | 2pm
If you want to make friends and be part of something new and exciting please register to come along, bring a friend or friends to find out more... all women are welcome.
We look forward to seeing you there and you will be welcomed with a complimentary drink and a big friendly smile.
Click to book HERE
Sun, 12 October 2025 | 11am-12:30pm | SWI Central Office
Create art from upcycled glass! Learn engraving and make seaglass postcards in this hands-on, sustainable workshop with Alina Litvinova.
Discover the art of glass crafting in this hands-on workshop with community artist and curator Alina Litvinova. Participants will explore two creative techniques: engraving on glass bottles or jars and making seaglass postcards.
*All equipment and refreshments will be provided as part of your ticket.
Tickets are now sold out for this event. Please email anna.bain@theswi.org.uk to be added to a waiting list.
Tues, 14th Oct | 7pm-8pm | ONLINE
Join us online with Jennifer Futter as she shares her memoir 10 Years of Unpicking, a story of love, fashion & resilience in Nairobi.
Jennifer’s memoir has received fantastic reviews on Goodreads, praised for its honesty, humour, and heartfelt storytelling.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear Jennifer discuss her remarkable journey, followed by a live Q&A.
Book your space here.
In person | October 25 | Banchory Guide Hall | 2pm
If you want to make friends and be part of something new and exciting please register to come along, bring a friend or friends to find out more... all women are welcome.
We look forward to seeing you there and you will be welcomed with a complimentary drink and a big friendly smile.
Click to book HERE
SWI Christmas Quiz | December 11th 2025 | 7pm - 8.30pm
It's that time of year again! Roll on the SWI's Christmas quiz, hosted by SWI members! This year will be buckets of fun, come together with your friends and enjoy this lively, festive event...
This is open to members and non-members and there will be lots of excitement and surprises on the night. The winning quizzer will win a £50 Marks & Spencer voucher!
Wear your best Christmas jumper and bring along your favourite fizzy tipple!
Book your place here