WHAT IS THE UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE?
The University of the Third Age (U3A) is a group of like-minded people who endeavour to keep active in body and mind in the Third Age of life. There are many and varied free classes for our members. We have joined together to share our knowledge and skills. All the work done by the Leaders, the Members and the Committee, is done on a voluntary basis. The only cost is a yearly Membership fee and for materials used.
Leaders and students plan most of the classes. They share their knowledge and experience with others. Individuals learn what they like at the pace they prefer. No qualifications are required to join a U3A branch, and there are no qualifications awarded.
THE HISTORY OF THE U3A
The first University of the Third Age was established at the University of Toulouse, France in 1972. The aim was to improve the quality of life for older people, by keeping them in touch with an ever-changing world, through bringing them into contact with academic programs run by local universities. The idea was so successful that it spread to many countries throughout the world, and by 1975 the International Association of U3A branches had been formed.
In 1981, U3A was introduced to Britain through a group based at Cambridge University. The French model was modified - rather than using pre-existing University courses, a mutual-aid and self-help organization evolved.
Australia's first U3A commenced in Melbourne in 1984. Today, there are approximately 8400 U3A members in Victoria. There are 98 known U3A campuses throughout Australia with a membership of 23,600. The U3A movement is well established in the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe.
ABOUT CROYDON U3A AND HOW TO JOIN IT
Croydon U3A was formed in 1992. It caters for the varying interests and educational backgrounds of members. It now has over 550 members and organizes 65 different classes each week. Annual membership fee: $30 each (includes a membership badge). Associate Membership: For members of other U3A branches who wish to attend Croydon U3A Classes. $20 each. Applications for membership may be obtained from the Croydon U3A Inc. office or by using the Registration Form on this Website.
HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Visit our U3A office at
Keystone Hall Complex, 1 Civic Square, Croydon (Melway Map 50 K4).
The
office is open from 10:00am to 12:30pm each weekday.
We can provide membership
information, our current Class Timetable, latest Newsletter and answer your
queries. You are welcome to come and have a chat, some tea and coffee.
We welcome new
members and voluntary tutors to share your interests and skills.
No teaching experience is necessary.
Suggestions or requests for new courses will be considered and we will endeavour
to find new tutors, venues and interested members.
Contact us by telephone:
General Enquires: contact the U3A Office (03)9724 9544.
Our Fax number is: (03)9724 9543.
The U3A Office will be closed during the school and public holidays.
Answering Machine is available after hours.
Write to us at Croydon U3A Inc., PO Box 816, Croydon Victoria 3136 Australia.
