Learning News

Last week our online schedule of learning events in relation to Hadrian’s Wall came to an end. This series which ran over 10 days culminated in the in-person event ‘u3a Off the Wall’, where u3a members from across the movement came together in Northumberland for a day of talks, events and activities.

However for those members who couldn’t get there in-person, the online events gave a chance to learn more about Hadrian’s Wall, its historical context and the surrounding area.

A regular to our online events programme, Newcastle u3a member Catherine Stevenson, started off the programme with an intriguing and mysterious presentation about secretive artwork that’s been created in areas around Hadrian’s Wall.

We were also lucky to have author and historian Adrian Goldsworthy join us for an hour’s session discussing his ‘Roman Britain’ series. One attendee noted that, ‘Usually a good sign is when time flies by, and that was certainly true in this case. The historical interest was my motive for attending and this was well-rewarded by Adrian - very many thanks!’.

‘Scotland’s Foodie’ Wendy Barrie also joined us for a presentation on Roman culture, food production and agriculture – and its influence on British Cuisine today. From ground elder to rabbit, there was plenty to learn about and u3a members asked some very engaging questions in the Q&A.

Wendy Barrie presents about Roman Influence on British Cuisine

Members were also fascinated to hear from author Nancy Jardine about how she collected the evidence needed to set her Celtic Britain series of novels in Roman times.

u3a trustee, Margaret Fiddes then used her talent and creativity to show members how to make flower crowns. As a florist herself, Margaret was able to show members clearly how to make the crowns. A participant said that it was a ‘Terrific session. Margaret was lovely and engaging, making the session fun… [I’m] very pleased with my crown and happy to have learned a new skill. Worked very well over zoom. Thanks for making zoom sessions available to u3a membership. I am cautious about COVID and don't attend any local in person classes.’ 

Haywards Heath u3a Latin group finished off the programme by creating a wonderful video. This is an illustrated selection of letters from the Vindolanda Writing Tablets in Latin and English, which you can watch on YouTube.

Thank you to all our speakers and hosts, and to the members who attended these events - we hope you learnt something new and interesting. If you missed these, do not worry as there are many more online opportunities to get involved in every month, free for u3a members. Browse the talks and workshops currently on offer on the u3a Online Events page