zzz Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does U3A mean?
It is an abbreviation for: University of the Third Age.
University? Degrees and things?
The U3A is a university in the old fashioned sense of learning. It does not offer degrees (or similar) though there is nothing to prevent members from pursuing their interest as far as they wish. For example it encourages the Open Learning concept (coordinated by the (OU) which is largely free.
What qualifications do I need to start?
None – other than acceptance of the rules associated with our Constitution.
What qualifications are on offer?
None
So what’s the point?
The U3A is a group of people with skills & knowledge that are worth sharing with others of a similar mind. The aim is to share ideas and enthusiasms with each other on a mutually cooperative basis.
Third Age? What’s that about?
Most of us object to being labeled as ‘old’ and simply prefer to identify ourselves as ‘no longer in full-time gainful employment’. There are no age limitations.
Is there a goal?
To keep our bodies, brains and other faculties fully functional, through activities (both physical and mental) that involve others of a like mind.
Equal Opportunities; is this a problem?
We do our very best to accommodate and assist all people with disabilities.
How does it all work?
We have a formal meeting every month and usually there is a visiting speaker on a topic of general interest.
Additionally there are various groups that meet and operate in places of their own choice. These are all self- financing.
I am not very keen on formal meetings.
The monthly general meeting is quite friendly and informal but you do not have to attend. Most members do attend if only to meet and hear our visiting speaker(s) and enjoy a bit of gossip and light refreshments.
I am not very keen on formal meetings
The monthly general meeting is quite friendly and informal but you do not have to attend. Most members do attend if only to meet and hear our visiting speaker(s) and enjoy a bit of gossip and light refreshments.
The Interest Groups, what do they do?
The current groups are listed on the Group Page.
Just click on the ‘Groups’ tab at the top of the page – you’ll see that there are a range of things to get involved in. If there is something which you would like to partake in which doesn’t feature, you might want to consider starting up a group yourself. We can help you do that if you are interested. Talk or email our Interest Groups’ Co-ordinator or a Committee Member with your idea. You are welcome to drop in to see any of the activities if you contact the Group Leader first.
Do I have to join any Interest Groups
Not if you don’t want to, although if you don’t you could be missing a great opportunity to meet old and new friends and do something that really takes your fancy. There are always the main meetings, which take place at 10.00am on the last Wednesday of each month, at the Civic Hall, Grays. Most months, a speaker is invited to talk to us on any one of a variety of interesting and topical themes.
How do I join an Interest Group
There are a number of ways to do this. You can attend one of the main meetings, when each interest group may have a display to show what’s coming up – and then you can meet the group leader and register your interest. You do need to be a paid-up member of Thurrock U3A to join an interest group.
Alternatively you can contact the group leader directly, or get in touch with the Interest Groups Coordinator. Click on the ‘GROUPS ’ tab at the top of this page to get their details. Details are also available in our regular Newsletter.
Suppose I want to take part in an exotic event
The reason why an activity does not exist is usually that we have not identified enough people who want to do it. There is no objection to almost anything being started (assuming it’s legal). It only needs a few keen participants plus a willing leader (or coordinator).
If I go on a day trip can I bring my spouse, partner or friend
On all trips, members of our U3A get priority. If the trip has to be opened up to others because there are spare places, members of other U3As who have asked to go will be offered a place before non-members. Non-members (including spouses and partners) can only go on our trips/outings on two occasions in total. Exceptions will be made for official carers.
Is this a Government initiative?
NO. The U3A is totally independent of political & religious influences. Each local group is autonomous in its own right, although we try to adhere to the general principles laid down by our parent body, The Third Age Trust.
So, who controls it?
You do. You elect the Committee. We decide our own programs and finance them ourselves from our own efforts.
Sounds rather expensive
Our annual subscription is only £15 and there are no plans to change it at this stage. This £15 covers affiliation fees to the Trust, plus the legal cover that is required when groups of people meet.
You also get a quarterly glossy magazine and our own monthly newsletter.
So, it is very cheap?
True, but when we hire halls, coaches, visit theatres' or invite external experts to address meetings or groups there are charges that need to be met. Participants are charged nominal sums to help offset these costs (the monthly general meetings are exempt from these extras). Additionally, we have received some Grant support in
the past from various agencies which we continue to pursue vigorously.
Do you do ‘taster’ sessions?
No. However, you are welcome to come to any of our meetings and see what goes on.