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🗞️ U3A Groups’ Coordinators Update – April 2025

Here’s a quick round-up from our Groups’ Coordinators meeting held on Monday 28th April. Thanks to all who attended—and to those who sent apologies.

👥 Attendees

Representatives joined from various local U3As, including Warsop, Mapperley, Newark, Beeston, Mansfield, Southwell, Burton Joyce, and Ravenshead.

🧩 Sharing Ideas & Good Practice

• Beeston U3A gave insights into their impressive setup: with over 1100 members and 100+ interest groups, they have four Group Coordinators. Each manages a quarter of the groups by category (e.g. sports, languages) and plays a key role in launching and supporting new activities.
• Calligraphy is gaining traction! Beeston and Mansfield run groups already, and Southwell expressed interest in a short introductory course. Know someone who might lead it? Let us know!
• A new Spanish Group may be starting in Newark, with inspiration drawn from existing groups in Beeston and Burton Joyce.
• Southwell’s Short Courses Programme was highlighted. It’s run by a small committee team with a pre-agreed budget, making all courses free to members—brilliant for reducing admin! The format has been successful for 2–3 years, covering topics like:
  • First Aid (via Red Cross or St John)
  • Fire Safety (fire service-led)
  • Financial Advice & Future Planning
    More ideas and potential repeats are welcomed.

🗓️ Upcoming Events & Dates

• Notts Network Event: Tailored to Group Coordinators. A poster is available—please check if you haven’t seen it! Can't attend? The national Interest Groups Matter workshop might be a great alternative—details on the U3A national site.
• Next Zoom Meeting: Set for Tuesday 2nd September at 4:15pm. Add it to your diaries!

🤝 Final Notes

The meeting wrapped up at 4:50pm, and we didn’t need the backup Zoom link. If you have questions or want to follow up on anything discussed, feel free to contact me.

Looking forward to seeing many of you on June 23rd!

Warm wishes,
J.H.
Groups’ Coordinators PSG organiser

NOTE: This report was created by AI from supplied minutes, TM

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