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STREET AND GLASTONBURY U3A
Printable Version |
The seeds for 'Lifelong Learning for older people' were sown at the Summer School of the Université du Troisième Age held in Toulouse in 1972. This led within a year to the formation of the 'International Association of U3As' (AIUTA). The U3A in the UK started by the creation of the 'Third Age Trust' in 1982 as registered charity, No.288007 and limited company No 1759471. Contrary to what was happening in France, there was no support from Universities. It was realised that Third Agers themselves had the skills to organise and teach in their own autonomous learning groups and local U3As were formed. Since we learn for the pleasure of it, no qualifications are required and none are given. The Third Age Trust is a member of AIUTA which aims to promote active learning, research and community service among Third Agers everywhere.
Around the country groups of people organise themselves for the purpose of learning. To quote one of the founders of the movement, Peter Laslett,
"Those who teach shall also learn and those who learn shall also teach".
The subjects tackled vary with each U3A and the number offered will depend on the size and enthusiasm of the group. Now in the UK there are 522 groups with a total membership of 130,535 as of the 12th June 2003.
The Street & Glastonbury U3A started in 1991 and now has approximately 200 members. In order to fit all the groups in, we have a fortnightly programme. We cover mental and physical activities. In addition, there are spring and summer walks, coffee mornings, an annual dinner and a few outings. We are always looking for new leaders or lecture contributors. Some groups have a tutor who organises or teaches. Some have contributions made by members. Some a mixture.
The small hall in Glastonbury Town Hall is one of our larger venues e.g. for monthly lectures. Windmill Hill St Edmund’s Hall and the Community Room in Northload Street and St Mary’s Church are all used. The remainder are held in Street or in the homes of members.
New people are welcome to sample a class. Then they should register and pay a subscription (£6 in 2003) and this will entitle them to join any of the groups, not already full. Companionship with others, who share interests, is an obvious benefit – no need to be lonely. Many people share transport with friends and some come in from outside villages.
To learn more about U3A visit the National Website of the University of the Third Age www.u3a.org.uk |
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