Upcoming workshops and courses.
New WBBNI courses are added regularly and will be scheduled as they’re confirmed—check back often for the latest updates
If there are not sufficient numbers enrolled we may have to postpone or amalgamate with other women’s centres.
Before you can sign up for a course, we need you to complete an Expression of Interest form so we can confirm eligibility enquirements.
Create to Connect ( Session 2/3)
Create to Connect Workshop with Bethy
Join us for a warm and welcoming introduction to creativity, using line drawing and other playful techniques to explore confidence and wellbeing. Led by Bethy, a former Women Breaking Barriers participant now moving into self-employment through her passion for art, this programme offers a supportive space to connect, create, and grow. No skills required, and lunch is provided.
Locations and Times
The Create to Connect workshops will take place at The Warehouse, 45–47 South Street, Newtownards, BT23 4JT. Sessions run on Thursday 5th, 12th, and 26th February 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm. Lunch is provided for all participants.
How to Register
If you’re new to Women Breaking Barriers, complete the registration form using the link provided.
Current WBB participants can book their place by contacting Megan at The Warehouse on 07872 342045 or Pamela ( WBB) on 07739 185915. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.
GOALS Magerafelt - Session 2/3
The GOALS programme is a motivational course for women in Northern Ireland that builds confidence, resilience, and practical skills for returning to work, education, or training.
The course includes a free OCN Level 1 qualification in Self Development and Career Planning, with transport and childcare support available. Sessions will run in Magherafelt Women’s Group on 2, 9, and 16 February 2026 from 10am to 2pm.
Participants must be economically inactive to be eligible. Interested women can register here or contact the centre for more information by calling Emma Jane on 028 7930 1601.
Create to Connect (Session 3/3)
Create to Connect Workshop with Bethy
Join us for a warm and welcoming introduction to creativity, using line drawing and other playful techniques to explore confidence and wellbeing. Led by Bethy, a former Women Breaking Barriers participant now moving into self-employment through her passion for art, this programme offers a supportive space to connect, create, and grow. No skills required, and lunch is provided.
Locations and Times
The Create to Connect workshops will take place at The Warehouse, 45–47 South Street, Newtownards, BT23 4JT. Sessions run on Thursday 5th, 12th, and 26th February 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm. Lunch is provided for all participants.
How to Register
If you’re new to Women Breaking Barriers, complete the registration form using the link provided.
Current WBB participants can book their place by contacting Megan at The Warehouse on 07872 342045 or Pamela ( WBB) on 07739 185915. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.
GOALS Magerafelt - Session 3/3
The GOALS programme is a motivational course for women in Northern Ireland that builds confidence, resilience, and practical skills for returning to work, education, or training.
The course includes a free OCN Level 1 qualification in Self Development and Career Planning, with transport and childcare support available. Sessions will run in Magherafelt Women’s Group on 2, 9, and 16 February 2026 from 10am to 2pm.
Participants must be economically inactive to be eligible. Interested women can register here or contact the centre for more information by calling Emma Jane on 028 7930 1601.
Create to Connect (Session 4/3)
Create to Connect Workshop with Bethy
Join us for a warm and welcoming introduction to creativity, using line drawing and other playful techniques to explore confidence and wellbeing. Led by Bethy, a former Women Breaking Barriers participant now moving into self-employment through her passion for art, this programme offers a supportive space to connect, create, and grow. No skills required, and lunch is provided.
Locations and Times
The Create to Connect workshops will take place at The Warehouse, 45–47 South Street, Newtownards, BT23 4JT. Sessions run on Thursday 5th, 12th, and 26th February 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm. Lunch is provided for all participants.
How to Register
If you’re new to Women Breaking Barriers, complete the registration form using the link provided.
Current WBB participants can book their place by contacting Megan at The Warehouse on 07872 342045 or Pamela ( WBB) on 07739 185915. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.
GOALS Magerafelt - Session 1/3
The GOALS programme is a motivational course for women in Northern Ireland that builds confidence, resilience, and practical skills for returning to work, education, or training.
The course includes a free OCN Level 1 qualification in Self Development and Career Planning, with transport and childcare support available. Sessions will run in Magherafelt Women’s Group on 2, 9, and 16 February 2026 from 10am to 2pm.
Participants must be economically inactive to be eligible. Interested women can register here or contact the centre for more information by calling Emma Jane on 028 7930 1601.
Emergency First Aid
🌼 Join our free First Aid Training at The Warehouse, Newtownards, designed for women not currently in employment to gain practical, life-saving skills in a supportive setting. Register with Women Breaking Barriers NI at https://bit.ly/47JToza or call Megan (07872 342045) / Pamela (07739 185915) if you're already registered.
Smartphone Photography For Business ( Session 2/2)
Free Online Workshops: Smartphone Photography for Business
Join us 19 & 26 Jan, 11:30am–1:30pm and learn to take pro-quality photos using just your phone - perfect for boosting your business online!
New to WBBNI? Scan the QR Code or register here
Already with us? Text Leon: 07546 388796.
Spaces are limited — be quick!
Numeracy For Life
Join us on 22 January 2026, from 9:30am to 11:00am, at the MPDA Community Hub, 1A Limetree Avenue, Ballycraigy, Antrim, BT41 1NP, for a relaxed and supportive numeracy session designed especially for women who are currently not in employment.
Whether you're looking to feel more confident with budgeting, everyday numbers, or planning your weekly shop, this gentle, practical session is a great place to start. Everyone who takes part will also receive a £20 Tesco voucher as a thank-you.
If you're new to Women Breaking Barriers NI, simply click the Register Interest link and one of our friendly team members will get in touch with you soon.
If you're already with us and eligible, just call Kim on 07539284961 or Pamela on 07739185915 to book your space.
Smartphone Photography For Business ( Session 1/2)
Free Online Workshops: Smartphone Photography for Business
Join us 19 & 26 Jan, 11:30am–1:30pm and learn to take pro-quality photos using just your phone - perfect for boosting your business online!
New to WBBNI? Scan the QR Code or register here
Already with us? Text Leon: 07546 388796.
Spaces are limited — be quick!
Makaton Level 1 Carrickfergus Session 3
Level 1 Makaton Course
A free, practical introduction to inclusive communication.
Dates: 13 & 20 Oct, 3 Nov 2025 | Time: 10am–12:15pm
Venue: Cithrah Foundation, Carrickfergus
Eligible participants must be economically inactive.
Contact rachel@wsn.org.uk to register.
Makaton Level 1 Carrickfergus Session 2
Level 1 Makaton Course
A free, practical introduction to inclusive communication.
Dates: 13 & 20 Oct, 3 Nov 2025 | Time: 10am–12:15pm
Venue: Cithrah Foundation, Carrickfergus
Eligible participants must be economically inactive.
Contact rachel@wsn.org.uk to register.
Breaking Inner Barriers NI (Session 4)
A free 4-week Breaking Inner Barriers programme begins 3rd November 2025 at The Junction, Dungannon. Led by Sarah Logan from Inner Happiness NI, it helps women boost confidence, build resilience, and find direction through mindfulness, mindset coaching, and creative activities. Open to women who are economically inactive.
Makaton Level 1 Carrickfergus Session 1
Level 1 Makaton Course
A free, practical introduction to inclusive communication.
Dates: 13 & 20 Oct, 3 Nov 2025 | Time: 10am–12:15pm
Venue: Cithrah Foundation, Carrickfergus
Eligible participants must be economically inactive.
Contact rachel@wsn.org.uk to register.
Breaking Inner Barriers NI (Session 3)
A free 4-week Breaking Inner Barriers programme begins 3rd November 2025 at The Junction, Dungannon. Led by Sarah Logan from Inner Happiness NI, it helps women boost confidence, build resilience, and find direction through mindfulness, mindset coaching, and creative activities. Open to women who are economically inactive.
Breaking Inner Barriers NI (Session 2)
A free 4-week Breaking Inner Barriers programme begins 3rd November 2025 at The Junction, Dungannon. Led by Sarah Logan from Inner Happiness NI, it helps women boost confidence, build resilience, and find direction through mindfulness, mindset coaching, and creative activities. Open to women who are economically inactive.
Breaking Inner Barriers NI
A free 4-week Breaking Inner Barriers programme begins 3rd November 2025 at The Junction, Dungannon. Led by Sarah Logan from Inner Happiness NI, it helps women boost confidence, build resilience, and find direction through mindfulness, mindset coaching, and creative activities. Open to women who are economically inactive.
Free Reiki Course (Session 3/3) (Copy)
Ready for a reset?
Join our FREE Reiki Course and discover how to support your own healing, boost confidence, and open doors to new opportunities.
In just three Mondays, you’ll learn Reiki Level 1 skills that can transform the way you care for yourself — and even create pathways into the complementary therapy sector.
📅 22 Sept – 6 Oct | Cookstown
⏰ 10am – 2pm
Spots are limited. Register today and take your first step toward something powerful.
Free Reiki Course (Session 2/3)
Ready for a reset?
Join our FREE Reiki Course and discover how to support your own healing, boost confidence, and open doors to new opportunities.
In just three Mondays, you’ll learn Reiki Level 1 skills that can transform the way you care for yourself — and even create pathways into the complementary therapy sector.
📅 22 Sept – 6 Oct | Cookstown
⏰ 10am – 2pm
Spots are limited. Register today and take your first step toward something powerful.
Essential Skills Numeracy
Essential Skills Numeracy for Women
A free 15-week course designed to build confidence with numbers and gain a recognised qualification. Suitable for Entry Level, Level 1, and Level 2 learners, with classes starting the week of 23 September 2025. Travel and childcare support available.
Free Reiki Course ( Session 1)
Ready for a reset?
Join our FREE Reiki Course and discover how to support your own healing, boost confidence, and open doors to new opportunities.
In just three Mondays, you’ll learn Reiki Level 1 skills that can transform the way you care for yourself — and even create pathways into the complementary therapy sector.
📅 22 Sept – 6 Oct | Cookstown
⏰ 10am – 2pm
Spots are limited. Register today and take your first step toward something powerful.
Stitched and Successful
Stitched and Successful is a free 8-week course designed for women who are not currently in paid work. Combining the creativity of patchwork with the practicality of enterprise skills, the programme offers a unique opportunity to build confidence, learn new techniques, and explore future possibilities. Participants will work on their own patchwork projects while gaining insights into entrepreneurship, all within a supportive and encouraging group setting.
Numeracy For Life, Carrickfergus
Numeracy for Life
Our Numeracy for Life course is designed to help women build confidence with everyday maths, from managing bills to budgeting and making informed money choices. This free programme is open to women who are economically inactive and includes a £20 Tesco voucher for all participants.
📍 Next session: Monday 15th September 2025, 10am–12:30pm
The Cithrah Foundation, Unit 6a Decourcy Centre, Lancasterian Street, Carrickfergus, BT38 7AG
Delivered by Pamela, an experienced facilitator who supports women to strengthen practical skills that make a real difference in daily life.
DIY & Business Skills Course
Women Breaking Barriers: DIY & Business Skills Course
Discover the power of practical skills and personal growth through our free, women-only DIY & Business Skills Course. This 10-week programme is designed to support women who are currently not in paid work by building hands-on DIY abilities, digital confidence, and foundational business knowledge.
Stitched & Successful- Information Day
Come along and discover how ‘Stitched and Successful’ can help you stitch your way to new skills and opportunities!
GOALS Programme Ballybeen Women's Centre ( 4 sessions)
Boost Your Confidence with GOALS at Ballybeen Women’s Centre!
Join our transformative GOALS (Gaining Opportunities and Living Skills) programme this September and take steps towards work, education, and personal growth.
✔ Enhance self-esteem and resilience
✔ Learn practical, tailor-made techniques to thrive and achieve
✔ Gain an OCN Level 1 Employability Certificate
✔ Support available for transport & childcare costs
📅 Dates: Thursdays, 10am–1pm (4th, 11th, 18th & 25th September 2025)
📍 Location: Ballybeen Women’s Centre, 34 Ballybeen Square, Dundonald, BT16 2QE
✨ Open to women not currently in paid work (eligibility criteria apply).
👉 For more information, contact Amanda at Ballybeen Women’s Centre
📧 amanda@ballybeenwomenscentre.org | ☎ 028 90481632
Essential Skills ( Assessment of Levels )
Assessment Session – Essential Skills Numeracy for Women
Take the first step towards building your confidence with numbers. Join our assessment session on 18 September 2025 at Falls Women’s Centre to find the right level for you (Entry Level, Level 1, or Level 2).
Our free 15-week course starts the week of 23 September and offers recognised qualifications, with support available for travel and childcare.
📞 028 9032 7672 (ask for Jennifer)
📧 communications@fallswomenscentre.org
Numeracy For Life
Join our free Numeracy for Life course in Newtownards on Wednesday 3rd September 2025 from 10am to 12pm. This programme empowers women in Northern Ireland with essential numeracy skills for everyday life. Participants will receive a £20 Tesco voucher. Eligibility criteria apply – participants must be economically inactive to join.
Location: The Warehouse, 47 South Street, BT23 4JT
Already with WBB? Call or text Megan on 07872 342045 to secure your spot.
Not yet with WBB? Visit www.womenbreakingbarriersni.com to register your interest.
Funded by the UK Government.
Information Open Day
Join Us for Our information Day!
New Term, New Skills, New You
The Cithrah Foundation invites women who are economically inactive to drop in and discover fully funded courses through the Women Breaking Barriers programme.
📅 Date: Tuesday 26th August
🕙 Time: 10AM – 12PM
📍 Location: De Courcy Centre, Carrickfergus, BT38 7AG
Come along for a cuppa and a chat, and find out how we can support you in building new skills and confidence.
Understanding Autism Online Course (Session 2)
Want to better understand and support children with autism?
Here’s your chance to join a free, online training designed to give you practical tools and deeper insight — all in a supportive, neuroaffirming space.
Understanding Autism – Free Online Training
19th & 26th August
10:00 – 12:00 noon · Online
(Eligibility criteria apply)
This two-part session will cover:
What autism is — and what it isn’t
Parenting and supporting children with autism
Nurturing both parent and child wellbeing
To register:
👉 Already part of Women Breaking Barriers? Email leon@nirwn.org
👉 New to WBB? Fill in this short form: REGISTER INTEREST FORM
Facilitated by Laura Gowdy, Play Therapist
Brought to you by Women Breaking Barriers + WSN
Understanding Autism Online Course ( Session 1)
Want to better understand and support children with autism?
Here’s your chance to join a free, online training designed to give you practical tools and deeper insight — all in a supportive, neuroaffirming space.
Understanding Autism – Free Online Training
19th & 26th August
10:00 – 12:00 noon · Online
(Eligibility criteria apply)
This two-part session will cover:
What autism is — and what it isn’t
Parenting and supporting children with autism
Nurturing both parent and child wellbeing
To register:
👉 Already part of Women Breaking Barriers? Email leon@nirwn.org
👉 New to WBB? Fill in this short form: REGISTER INTEREST FORM
Facilitated by Laura Gowdy, Play Therapist
Brought to you by Women Breaking Barriers + WSN
Creative Confidence Course
Boost Your Inner Strength with Our Free Online Creative Confidence Course
Feeling stuck or second-guessing yourself? It’s time to reconnect with your inner strength.
Join us for a free, fun, and interactive online session — Creative Confidence, designed to help you build lasting confidence in work, life, and yourself.
🗓 Tuesday 12th August
🕚 11AM – 1PM · Online
🎨 No pressure, no prep — just two hours of creative tools and supportive guidance.
Facilitated by the inspiring Edel Gribbin, this session is perfect for any woman ready to focus on self-belief and potential.
How to Register:
Already part of Women Breaking Barriers? Email leon@nirwn.org to book your place.
New to WBB? Just fill out this quick form and we’ll be in touch.
Brought to you by Women Breaking Barriers and Patchwork People
Autism Awareness - Ballybeen
Autism Awareness - Ballybeen Women’s Centre
Thursday 5th December 2024
10am-12.30pm
Ballybeen Women’s Centre, 34 Ballybeen Square, Dundonald, Belfast BT16 2QB
With Play Therapist, Teacher and Autism Intervention Office, Laura Gowdy
Autism Awareness for Parents
Parenting a child with Autism - Tips & Support
For more information, contact Amanda on 028 90481632
Sign up details:
Already registered with Women Breaking Barriers and been accepted onto the programme? Sign up now.
If you would like to join the Women Breaking Barriers programme to get access to this and other courses, Register your interest now.
Numeracy for Everyday Life - Ballybeen
Numeracy for Everyday Life - Ballybeen Women’s Centre
Friday 29th November
Ballybeen Women’s Centre, 34 Ballybeen Square, Dundonald, Belfast BT16 2QB
Sign up details:
Already registered with Women Breaking Barriers and been accepted onto the programme? Sign up now.
If you would like to join the Women Breaking Barriers programme to get access to this and other courses, Register your interest now.
The Community Campaigners Course
Rachel Powell and Elaine Crory, who have worked together on the Raise Your Voice campaign to end violence against women and on the Women’s Policy Group Feminist Recovery Plan, will be delivering some elements of the free online training in January and February through the Community Campaigners project, supported by Belfast City Council.
Rachel, who is the Women’s Sector Lobbyist working to raise awareness of women’s issues at Stormont, said the aim was to reach women previously not involved in activism who want to effect change.
She said: “Many women want to bring change to their communities, but they don’t know where to start. This training requires no previous qualifications just a desire to get involved and learn new skills.”
“All social change comes about because of the work of grassroots activists; they are at the core of the feminist movement. Good activism is all about working collectively, sharing your strengths, and learning from others.”
The Community Campaigners Course, run by the Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA), offers free online training to women to provide them with the tools to campaign for better services for their communities.
There are two start dates for the course, January 18, and February 15. Each course consists of four half day sessions, covers critical thinking, communication skills, strategic planning and how to use human rights and equality law to strengthen a campaign.
Deirdre Quinn, the WRDA course co-ordinator, said they wanted to encourage more women to take on leadership roles in their local communities.
She said: “There are many determined women who are passionate about issues and want to become activists to improve the quality of life in their areas but need the confidence and practical skills to persuade the powers-that-be to sit up and take notice. This course provides the tools to achieve that.”
Participants do not need prior education or training, just an interest in developing their campaigning skills for the good of the community. Anyone wishing to take part must be from the Belfast City Council area. Those successfully taking part will acquire a Level Three Open College Network (OCN) NI in Community Campaigning and Lobbying.
The first Community Campaigners course begins on Tuesday, January 18 and the second course begins on Tuesday, February 15. Both take place from 10am to 12.30pm on Zoom and continue for four consecutive Tuesdays
If you wish to take part, send a paragraph explaining why you are interested to deirdre.quinn@wrda.net.
Trademark Belfast
Trademark is a social justice co-operative established in 2001 dedicated to tackling sectarianism and inequality. Keep an eye for when their courses go live!
They are offering the following as part of the Women Breaking Barriers Project:
Introduction to bookkeeping
Budgets and cashflow
Administration systems
Co-operatives
Worker Co-operative set up
Rules of a Co-operative x2
EqualityBusiness Planning x5
Anti-sectarian/Anti-Racism training x3