About us
Swarthmore is a centre for lifelong learning.
We offer a wide range of courses and workshops, run community projects, have regular exhibitions, offer room hire at competitive rates, and have an onsite cafe.
We now have a free clothing rail in our cafe for students. We also have a collection basket in reception for anyone who would like to donate food items to our local foodbank.
Our main aim is to encourage people who want to learn but might not feel comfortable in more formal educational institutions.
Swarthmore now has a Hardship Fund available to ensure everyone has access to our courses. If you would like to apply for financial support, please visit the Courses and Workshops page for more information. If you would like to donate to our fund, please click on the Donate button at the top of the page. ALL funds raised will be used for the sole purpose of supporting our students.
Our History
The Centre was founded by members of the Quaker movement in 1909 with the aim of including and involving people in learning activities and making sure that people were treated with equality and respect.
If you would like more information about the centre, SWARTHMORE’S CENTURY; A LEEDS EXPERIMENT IN ADULT EDUCATION, 1909–2009 by Tom Steele is an authoritative look into our history.
To get a copy, please ask at reception.
Ways to support Swarthmore
Join the team
Do you have the skills and qualities we need? Check out our current vacancies.
Current roles: Learning Support Assistants, Trustees.
Donate & Fundraise
Swarthmore relies on the generosity of our members and our community. Donations to our Student Hardship Fund are very much appreciated. Click the link to find out more about our current fundraising, or make a donation to support our work.
Hire a space
Swarthmore offers a range of rooms for hire at competitive rates. We also have a large hall suitable for events, an art studio and a variety of workspaces for hire.
The Swarthmore Team
Meet the Team
Who we work with
Swarthmore works with a wide range of fantastic organisations in the city.
