FAQ

Why should I join a U3A?

Learning should not stop as we get older. U3A provides social and intellectual stimulation for older people who are not in full-time paid employment. Courses are designed to be enjoyable as well as educational. U3A may give you the opportunity to learn something that you have always intended to learn but have not had the time to pursue.

How are U3As coordinated?

While operated independently by volunteers, Whittlesea U3A is one of more than 100 Victorian U3As supported by U3A Network Victoria, which provides organisational and planning support as well as facilitating broader relationships between Member U3As and affiliates, peer organisations and Government.

Who can join Whittlesea U3A?

Membership is open to retired and semi-retired people. No qualifications are required to join and enrol in courses.

How can I enrol in a Course or Activity?

Visit our online Membership System and click on Enrol as New Member or, if you are an existing member, Member Login.

How much does it cost?

There is an annual subscription and the fees are listed on the Memberships page.  Some courses have a separate fee for equipment or materials but they will be indicated on the course details.

Do I have to pay my subscription before I enrol?

No, you can enrol but pay within 2 weeks.

How do I make a payment?

You can pay online in our Membership System using PayPal, send a cheque or visit the office with cash or cheque.

Who are the course tutors?

U3As are run entirely by volunteers.  U3A offers the opportunity not only to learn, but also to become a course tutor yourself. You may be interested in sharing your knowledge and skills in an area you have a lifetime of experience in or you may have a new interest you are exploring and learning about that you would like to share.

Consider becoming a Tutor/Leader

Without tutors there would be no U3A. All of our tutors volunteer their skills and time. If you have a skill or passion that you would like to share, please consider offering a class. Have a look at the range of classes that are currently on offer. Many of our classes have waiting lists. You might like to offer an additional or similar class to one currently on offer, or you might like to offer something altogether different.

What courses are available at Whittlesea U3A?

We offer a range of courses over four terms each year. Most courses run through the four terms.  Other courses run for shorter periods and some are “one off’  To see what courses are available, check our timetable.

How are the classes run?

Tutors and the Course Coordinator are members who give their time voluntarily. Courses mostly run during the day and can be held across a range of venues we use.

What happens if the class I select is Full?

You will be placed on a waitlist and notified when a place becomes available.  We strongly recommend you register your interest even if the course is Full as this gives us an indication of the level of interest and we may be able to run another course.

Am I still on the Waitlist for a class?

Members can check their enrolled and wait listed courses by logging into our Membership System and selecting VIEW MY DETAILS.

Can I enrol in additional courses throughout the year?

Yes. You can apply for any classes that have vacancies, or be waitlisted for others. In addition, new classes will be offered during the year so keep an eye on our Newsletter, Website and Facebook Page.

I am no longer able to attend a course

Please contact us if you are no longer able to attend a course or courses.  Another member on the wait list may be able to take your place.  Where possible, please advise the tutor or leader.

Where are the courses held?

Courses are held in a variety of venues throughout Whittlesea from Lalor, Thomastown, Mill Park, Mernda and Whittlesea township. Find venue details on our venues page.

Do I get a name badge?

A new name badge is issued to active members each enrolment year.  Members retain their membership number for life.  New members (never been a previous member) are allocated a new membership number.

How is Whittlesea U3A administered?

Whittlesea U3A is a not-for-profit incorporated association administered by a volunteer executive committee. We welcome any assistance you would like to offer. To contribute some of your time or knowledge please contact us.

What is the background to Whittlesea U3A?

Whittlesea U3A Inc. was established in 2002, with 30 members and 10 tutors. Today, we have grown to more than 800 members and over 80 tutors and other volunteers, and we run over 100 different courses and activities throughout the year.

How is Whittlesea U3A funded?

Whittlesea U3A is funded from a variety of sources.  Members pay an annual subscription and we are fortunate to receive grants from Whittlesea Council and ACFE through U3A Network Victoria.