U3A Clarence Inc.

Mission Statement

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

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 the Association, 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.

Clarence U3A offers courses in three 10 week terms. 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.
Clarence U3A won the outstanding provider award in Adult Learning Week in September 1999.

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. Click this link to email:.

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!

U3A Clarence's new web-site
u3aclarence.com
began 12 August 2009.
Updated 24 January 2010.

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

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

Kingborough U3A 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

Friends of Rosny Library is a great organisation for book lovers. There's a book discussion group, interesting speakers and events - and of course the famous library Book Sales. If you would like to join FORL contact the President, Fiona Gleadow (one of our U3A members) on Ph 62658968 or email friendsofrosnylibrary@hotmail.com

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