The German Group was one of the
first to be formed when High
Lane U3A was started in 2001. Five of the original members attend and
there are a regular 10 members at each meeting. Despite different
degrees of knowledge, ranging from absolute beginners to former A level
students, we all manage to learn something at every session. We have
worked through a course but now generally concentrate on conversational
German, studying articles from newspapers and magazines and discussing
topics that arise and anything that is of interest to the group. We
meet most Fridays. Anyone interested in joining us
can contact me at w.brookes1@ntlworld.com
An important part of what we learn is what the Germans call
"Landeskunde" - knowledge of the country. This was enhanced in May 2005
when a group of 10, including some partners, went on a 5 day trip to
Berlin.
It was such a success
that we arranged a trip to Hamburg
at the end of August 2006.
Members
of the group also have the
opportunity to take part in an
exchange trip to Forchheim
in Bavaria every two years when they really
get an opportunity to practise their language skills while staying with
German families. This was an exchange I started while still working at
Ridge Danyers College and most of those taking part are members of the
U3A
in other parts of Stockport.
In July 2006 nine members of High Lane U3A
participated, some of whom had hosted guests in 2005.
We had a trip to Cologne
for 5 days in April 2007.
Several members of the German group have had a visit to Munich
and Salzburg between the 23rd and 29th April. Whilst there we viewed the
sights of this very vibrant city, ventured into the Bavarian Alps and managed to find a zoo. Visit report
For those members of the U3A in general who wish to take part in the exchange with Forchheim:-
I have not yet been able to book flights but have asked Air Berlin for
a group quote for the period 20th-30th June. During that period
we should be able to experience the Old Town Festival and possibly
a Well Festival in a nearby region.
The German group continues to meet at Marlene Brookes' house on most
Fridays. The
group has now reached 12 in number so, reluctantly, I will have to
restrict membership, at least until the autumn. (The conservatory is
rather full at the moment!)
This is a very friendly group which enjoys socialising so we make sure
we have regular meals out, especially at Christmas and Easter. Whenever
I have German visitors, the group has an opportunity to meet them and
find out a little more about life in Germany.
Group Leader: Marlene Brookes
14
of us enjoyed an excellent pre-Christmas meal at the Wycliffe Hotel at
the end of November. We had our last meeting on the 12th December with
Gluhwein, Stollen and mince pies accompanied by music and a Christmas
story. Members of the group will be informed by phone or email of our
next meeting in January.