U3A Clarence Inc.

A University of the Third Age

Bellerive Beach

Geilston Bay

U3A Clarence is a cooperative learning community for retired and semi-retired people, run by volunteers on a non-profit basis. Its aim is to encourage the pursuit of learning. There are no entry qualifications, assessments or awards. It was founded in 1993 and now has approximately 300 members.

The University of the Third Age has been formed to provide a shared learning experience free of educational, cultural and political bias. To this end U3A:-

1. Recognises the diverse experience of its members and organises programs as wide as the human resources of members permit. As a general rule tutors should be volunteers.
2. Encourages a lively learning atmosphere, offering a wide range of subjects reflecting the interests of members.
3. Recognises the importance of social and cultural interchange within U3A, supports and encourages initiatives developed by members.
4. Makes no judgments between applicants for membership, although the needs and interests of Third Age people will provide the criteria for organisation.
5. Provides occasional forums where all members may contribute comments and ideas related to the program and to the general organisation.

U3A Clarence offers courses in three 10 week terms. Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays. There are 3 one-hour sessions each day with a choice of courses in each session. Courses vary from term to term with a choice of 30-35 each term and members may enrol in as many classes as they wish. Courses are on offer in the following areas:-

• Literature:  classics, modern, poetry, drama
• History:      ancient, modern, Tasmanian, Australian, Asian, current events and issues
• Languages: French, Latin, Spanish, German
• Sciences:     geology,botany, anthropology, mathematics, ecology, meteorology, astronomy, scientists, biographies
• Philosophy: ethics, theology
• The Arts:    art history and theory, painting, calligraphy, writing, music appreciation
• Group activities: debating, genealogy, chess, multicultural dancing, bush walking, theatre and gallery visits

The Tutors have a wide range of backgrounds – University, teaching, business and commerce, media – and all give their time voluntarily. Many classes are contributory classes where members are encouraged to participate in the running of the group. A measure of the success in creating attractive and rewarding programs is the high rate of enrolment in courses and constant applications from new members. U3A Clarence won the outstanding provider award in Adult Learning Week in September 1999. top

Visitors

A non-member of U3A Clarence is welcome to come to a class session as a visitor and experience U3A first hand. If you know a U3A Clarence member ask to accompany them to a class. If you are a member of U3A Clarence, bring a friend. Because some classes have a upper size limit, it will be necessary to check beforehand that there is room. top

Location

U3A Clarence is located in the City of Clarence on Hobart's eastern shore where most of the members reside. All courses are held during the day at Rosny LINC (Library), Bligh Street. X marks the spot! top

U3A Clarence web-site   u3aclarence.com
began 12 August 2009.
Updated 19th January 2012.

U3A Glenorchy http://www.u3aglenorchy.org.au/

U3A Hobart http://www.u3a-hobart.tassie.org/

U3A Kingborough http://www.u3akingborough.org/

Harrow U3A in the U.K. publish a comprehensive list of U3As at http://www.harrowu3a.co.uk/

Photographs courtesy of Clarence City Council. Further details of amenities and services may be obtained from the Clarence web-site: http://www.ccc.tas.gov.au