A little bit more about Wimborne u3a

Welcome to the Wimborne u3a. On behalf of the Committee and myself I hope that you find the information provided in this website relevant and useful. As you will know, we provide a service to the retired and semi-retired in Wimborne and the surrounding area. We’re very concerned to meet the social and learning needs of as wide a range of people in our community as possible. u3a has moved a long way from its origins when it was set up as a provider of academic courses for the retired – hence the original name University of the Third Age – and now we have everything from crafts and wellness to sports to more subject based courses. We have quiz evenings, a talks programme and walking groups and drop-in coffee mornings for members to come and chat. It’s a really good mix.

Before I go any further, I should mention our u3a team. At the current time of writing, we have a Committee of 10, and a group of leaders, we call Convenors, over 60 strong. They all provide their time for free, and we owe them an enormous debt of gratitude, as it enables us to provide such a high value, but low-cost, programme. Currently there are over 500 members benefitting from our different courses, and I’m sure they would be the first to thank these volunteers for their time and commitment.

Wimborne is a great town, with a vibrant community spirit, and so much to do and enjoy. With around 30% of the population over 70, u3a is an important part of that equation. The motto of the organisation nationally is ‘Learn Laugh Live’, and we should celebrate that we can bring people together through shared experiences. It’s so important that, once we have retired or started to step back from the pressured world of work, we get involved in activities which continue to stretch body and mind. It’s a truism to say that we never stop learning. However, above all else since I have become Chair, I have realised the power of u3a to create friendship and support, which often goes far beyond the activities themselves. People who, for whatever reason, are isolated or lonely, or simply have moved into the area and want to create a new circle of friends, can benefit hugely by getting involved in u3a.

So I hope you will take a good look around the site at what we can offer. We are always changing, with new groups and activities being set up, so it’s also worth checking in from time to time. I hope you find something that interests you and you will join our community. The world is in a difficult place right now, in so many ways, and if we can, in our modest Wimborne way, lighten lives through learning, laughter and friendship, then we’re fulfilling the u3a mission.

Ashley Rowlands

Wimborne u3a - Making the Most of Retirement