| Tiverton U3A |
What is U3A?
University of the Third Age (U3A) consists of groups of people, no longer in the work-force, who appreciate the stimulation, companionship and the very real enjoyment of learning together.
U3As are voluntary, autonomous, self-motivated organizations. They tap the great reservoir of knowledge, skills and experience which is often undervalued and overlooked.
The teaching, planning and administration of a U3A branch is carried out by its own members on a voluntary basis. This distinguishes U3As from the traditional approaches to educational provision.
Why “University”?
A U3A is a university in the original sense of the word - a voluntary community of people devoted to learning, coming together to share and pursue learning in all its forms
Why “Third Age”?
Childhood is the first age. The next age is that of career & parental responsibility. The third age is when we are no longer in the full-time workforce.
When did U3A start?
The first U3A was at the University of Toulouse in France, in 1972. It sought to improve the quality of life for older people by bringing them into contact with academic programs run by the university.
In 1981 U3A began in England, at Cambridge University. The French model was modified - rather than using pre-existing University courses a mutual-help organisation evolved.
When did it start in Tiverton?
Tiverton U3A was started in 1990.
Can anybody join?
Members are usually over 50 and no longer in fulltime employment.
What area does Tiverton U3A cover?
The town and surrounding local areas.
Do I need any qualifications?
No formal qualifications are required, none are offered - those joining, do so for the pleasure of learning. There are no examinations and all sessions are informal and lively.
Will I receive any qualifications from the U3A?
NO. The organisation is about sharing experience and knowledge not about building towards formal qualifications.
What are the benefits of membership?
Members may attend any of the monthly meetings, seminars and social events, and may join any number of activity groups, subject to the availability of places.
When you join you will be sent a copy of our newsletter which includes a diary of events and contact details for all group coordinators. The newsletter is issued monthly to each member household, and U3A News, the magazine of the Third Age Trust is issued four times a year.
One of the major benefits of joining U3A is stimulation of the mind but the camaraderie and fun engendered is of equal importance. There is always time for a “cuppa” and a chat, and with periodic social get-togethers and excursions, members of all classes meet one another and so the social circle widens.
Surveys show that older persons are “perfectly capable of continuing with and deriving pleasure from learning” and find that “improvement of health“ is due to an “increase of mindfulness”.
What form do meetings take?
There are three kinds of meetings:-
A monthly meeting, held at the Best Western Tiverton Hotel, with an optional lunch afterwards
An Annual General Meeting,
Group Meetings on a variety of subjects; these may be held during the day or evening either in people's homes or at an appropriate venue.
How do I become a member?
Use the contact form for an initial enquiry or contact the membership secretary Janet Holcombe on 01884 258982 or at Admin@TivertonU3A.org
What if I'm not sure?
If you're interested in joining but aren't sure, you can attend two monthly meetings before you decide. Please get in touch with us via the contact form for dates before going along.
How much does it cost?
Membership is due each year in January & costs £8.00 per person.
How will my subscription be spent?
Your subscription mainly is used to cover the following costs:
£2.50 contribution to the Third Age Trust (the national body)
Printing and distribution of the monthly newsletter
The subscription also covers such things as hiring venues, speakers, the website and supporting new Interest Groups.
Are there any other costs involved?
There is often a small charge to attend each monthly meeting.
Interest groups are self funding and any costs associated with that group are met by members of that group. For instance if a room or hall needs to be hired the cost might be £1 or £2 per member per meeting. A small contribution (typically 30p) is also made towards refreshments at any meeting.
How is Tiverton U3A administered?
The activities are administered by a Committee which is elected by the members at the annual General Meeting.
If I were to join, how could I be of most help?
If you have particular interests or skills you could contribute to one of the Interest Groups or set up a new one. The existing Interest Groups are always pleased to have assistance to run their activities.
How many members does the U3A have?
In the United Kingdom more than 750,000 people belong to a U3A. The Tiverton U3A had 350 members at the time of its AGM in March 2010.
Is there any limit on the number of interest groups I can join?
No, you can join as many as you like, although some groups have a limit on numbers based on the space available in the venue used (very often people’s homes)
I'd like to find out more before I decide whether to join the Tiverton U3A; who should I contact?
Janet Holcombe is our Membership Secretary. She can be contacted by email at Admin@TivertonU3A.org or by phone on 01884 258982.