Background

The University of the Third Age (U3A) started in France 1973 and now has a presence across Europe as well as Australia, New Zealand, Cyprus and South Africa. Essentially, U3A encourages the sharing of knowledge and experience amongst senior citizens with the aim of bringing about lifestyle enhancement and lifelong learning.

Lifelong Learning with the University of the Third Age (U3A) in Ireland.

In Ireland, Age Action through the University of the Third Age network (U3A) helps bring lifelong learning to those in the ‘third age’. This is defined by a period in life in which full time employment has ceased.

Monkstown U3A

U3As are volunteer-led and managed community groups, offering education, social activities, and community connection. Monkstown U3A is organised by a Steering Group currently comprising 8 members which meets once a month.  Membership currently comprises 210 individuals and applications awaiting membership number 50.

The mission of Monkstown U3A is to promote lifelong learning and active, creative ageing by senior citizens in local communities, through learning and doing new things, meeting new people, having some fun and, where possible, through the sharing of skills, experience and interests with others.

Each U3A promotes healthy ageing by sharing classes and activities provided by its own members. There are no qualifications for membership; no degrees or diplomas are awarded.

Together we create a programme based on members’ interests and meet on a regular basis in Newtownpark Pastoral Centre. Our meetings are held approximately every two weeks on Tuesdays at 10:30am with a short break in summertime. There is time to meet and enjoy the company and interests of other members. We meet approximately every two weeks in Newtownpark Pastoral Centre, in the grounds of Guardian Angels Church, Newtownpark Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin.