There are at least a couple of thousand “senior” people anxiously awaiting the reopening of Bribie Island University of the Third Age (U3A) which closed down in March when the threat of Covid-19 first became apparent.
It was a difficult and unanimous decision by the Committee, which turned out to be a very good one.
With over 2000 Students, Tutors, Receptionists and Volunteers involved at U3A, the last few month has been a long and frustrating time. Personal and social interaction is an important factor, and this loss added to limitations of Covid-19 for many people.
A few Classes have been able conducted in small groups in other locations and venues, as restrictions allow.
Everyone is keen to return to U3A classes and venues when it reopens on Monday 1st February 2021.
COMPLEX LOGISTICS INVOLVED
There will NOT BE the usual Enrolment Day prior to start of term 1.
Covid-19 limitations and complex logistics dictate student numbers, but U3A plans to recommence Term 1 with a total of 158 classes, utilising all the Classrooms and main Hall at U3A, as well as 6 other outside venues and Tutors homes. This is a very complex logistics exercise involving Tutor availability, room size, time schedules, hygiene procedures, student numbers, space limitations, time between classes, and Covid compliance plans.
The U3A Committee and the hard working ladies in the program team are working hard to produce a Term 1 daily Timetable.
CLASSES IN 2021
Because U3A closed half way through Term 1 of 2020, all financial members in 2020 will have their membership automatically extended for the full year 2021 with no further membership payment required.
Students who paid Term 1 class fees in 2020, will have their name automatically transferred to the same class rolls for Term 1 in 2021.
Payment for Term 1 Classes next year can be made at U3A only between Monday 11 January and Friday 15 January.
Students who do not wish to, or are unable to continue with the same class again in Term 1 2021, should advise the Tutor or U3A. If payment is not made by 15 January, your name will be deleted from the class role, creating possible vacancies for others.
JOINING NEW CLASSES
Enrolment for a new or different class with vacancies in Term 1 2021 can only be done at U3A between Monday January 25 and Friday January 28 next year.
Subject to Tutors, Class sizes and numbers, all classes with vacancies will be advertised and published in email Newsletter and on Web Site www.u3abribie.org.au when known.
New Members wishing to join U3A for the first time will only be able to do so between Wednesday 20 January and Friday 22 January.
RESTARTING U3A
U3A looks forward to resuming Term 1 classes on Monday 1st February 2021, after a rather complex and time specific payment and enrolment process. There will also be ongoing restrictions including no tea, coffee or biscuits, use of fridges, controlled entry and exit, and frequent hygiene cleaning.
“Our focus is on the important health and security of all our members” says President Greg Sibthorpe.
All information and updates on www.u3abribie.org.au
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