adult education
– local groups of older people organise and run informal courses, talks and study groups free of charge. Members share skills and life experiences and learn together in a relaxed and sociable environment. With 1,400 members, Canterbury is one of Kent’s largest groups. It offers 157 activities ranging from such academic subjects as Hebrew, Latin, science and history, to the practical art, card making, music, dancing and yoga. Several years ago Ursula Steiger,
Canterbury’s Chair, started a singing group (which now has 100 members) and she also runs a recorder ensemble. Some of her most frequently used skills, such as conducting, were learnt during a music course soon after retirement.
“All members can be teachers
and learners and there’s a big spread of skills,” she says. Busy Ursula is also studying Italian with U3A. Over in Tunbridge Wells the best-
attended groups are the walks (four in the town alone) as well as history,
art, visits to stately homes and museums, according to member Wendy Maher. She is particularly involved with Mahjong, a Chinese-originated game that’s also popular within the Tonbridge and Pembury U3A groups.
She adds: “Teaching and
learning at the same time helps the mind and the body. If there’s not a group for it, we start one!” • U3A groups are supported by the Third Age Trust’s huge bank of educational resources. For more information, call 020 8466 6139 or visit
www.u3a.org.uk
Paying for courses
U3A sessions are free, but with other courses check the prices and available discounts or grants before starting one. Online or distance learning is usually cheaper and they are good options if you don’t want to travel.
Planning For Later Life Magazine
13
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