University of the 3rd Age

The objectives of Bournemouth U3A are to educate and serve the over 50's by providing education and recreation in relaxed, informal surroundings thereby creating many opportunities for learning, exercise, enjoyment and the formation of new friendships. Bournemouth U3A can boast a membership of over 950 which enjoys an annual programme of 90 different classes and groups. The subject matter ranges from art to yoga, by way of drama, literature, languages, computing, philosophy, current affairs and music to suit all tastes. For the more energetic there are tennis, cycling, keep fit, rambling and swimming groups, as well as classes in sequence, line, country and folk dancing. Leisure activities include bridge, Scrabble, card games, craft work and flower arranging. The U3A year is divided into three, 10 week terms and, as a rule, each class or group meets weekly for one-and-a-half hours. Classes are held during the day at ten different locations scattered throughout Bournemouth. They are led by dedicated, unpaid enthusiasts. No qualifications – only enthusiasm for the subject - are required. Bournemouth U3A is forever on the look-out for additional enthusiasts to join its ranks of talented group leaders and increase the variety of activities on offer. Whilst educational and recreational activities form the core of the programme, members also enjoy a very varied social agenda which includes mini holidays (at home and abroad), trips to gardens, stately homes, and the theatre. They also enjoy a variety of monthly meetings such as lunch clubs and afternoon sessions with quizzes, speakers and artistes from the world of entertainment. The membership fee is £25 a year which entitles members to participate throughout the year in up to four classes (or groups) as well as any of the many social activities. Further information about joining the U3A or the current programme can be got by Ø phoning the Bournemouth U3A office (01202.420700: open 10.00 – 12.00hrs: Monday to Friday - not public holidays) Ø emailing your query to u3abournemouth@btinternet.com, Ø writing to Bournemouth U3A, c/o St James’ Institute, 33A Stourfield Road, Bournemouth BH5 2AR Ø picking up a leaflet from any one of Bournemouth’s local libraries. From July 2008 it will be also possible to contact the organisation via its new web site www.bournemouthu3a.org.uk