U3A Kate Sheppard

"Those who teach shall also learn - Those who learn shall also teach"

About U3A

The purpose of U3A is to encourage further learning by listening, understanding, contributing, researching and participating in discussion and relevant excursions about new topics. Visit the U3A organisation or find out more about U3A Kate Sheppard.

U3A Kate Sheppard

U3A - University of the 3rd Age is a world-wide organisation which grew from a legislative change in France in 1972 - universite du troisieme age (UDA). The concept was refined in Britain in 1982, and started in New Zealand by a group in Auckland who founded U3A Remuera in 1989.

Are you about to retire? Or are semi or completely retired? U3A is for people who wish to join others in exercising their minds and improving their knowledge. We offer new learning experiences where our members work together in a friendly and stimulating environment with like-minded people.

Our U3A Kate Sheppard group is one of a number of U3A groups active in Christchurch, and is part of the world-wide U3A body. While operating as autonomous, stand-alone organisations, each group works to operate in line with the general principles of the international family of U3A groups.

Unique Characteristics

At its formation in 2004, U3A Kate Sheppard identified the unique characteristics of U3A as: Learning topics are selected by the Members • In-depth courses are planned by Members, for Members • Opportunities for reading, research and discussion are provided • The company of others who enjoy learning is ensured • No qualifications required - No examinations - No qualifications given • No compulsory activities • Costs are minimal

Why U3A Kate Sheppard?

The founding Members came to a popular consensus regarding the choice of a name for the group. Kate Sheppard is a significant personality in Christchurch’s and New Zealand’s history in the field of women’s rights and suffrage.

When and where we meet

St Christopher’s Church, Avonhead

At U3A Kate Sheppard we have 7 Series of Lectures a year, each usually comprising 5 weekly lectures sessions, with a one-week interval between Series. Meetings commence with coffee and a chat at 10am, then an address from the President at 10:25, with the day’s lecture from 10:30 for around one hour. Currently we meet at St Christopher’s church in Avonhead.