S3AL is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization of retired and semi-retired individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for lifelong learning. Our welcoming and friendly community is built on active participation, with the only requirement being a willingness to engage in both your own learning and the learning of others.
Through shared learning experiences, members broaden their knowledge and develop new skills across a wide range of subjects. Meaningful connections and a strong sense of camaraderie are fostered through group discussions, collaborative learning, and social events.
To encourage participation and interaction, class sizes are intentionally limited to 16 participants. This small-group format promotes both individual engagement and lively group discussions, creating a more personalized and enriching learning experience.
We offer informative, affordable courses three times each year on a variety of academic and general-interest topics. Courses are led by knowledgeable volunteer leaders in a relaxed, social atmosphere and are scheduled during daytime hours.
Our lectures and courses are ideal for older adults who enjoy learning, exploring new ideas, and keeping their minds active—without the pressure of assignments, essays, or exams.
The concept of active learning for seniors is not new. The idea originated in France in the 1960s and was later adopted by the United Kingdom as the University of the Third Age (U3A). This model has since spread to numerous countries, including Canada, where some 3rd age organizations have been offering such programs for over 30 years.
S3al is a member of the Third Age Network (TAN). TAN has been instrumental in promoting lifelong learning among seniors.
PRESS RELEASE – 21/02’2025
Stratford, Ontario, Launches ‘Stratford Third Age Learning’ to Empower Seniors Through Active Education
Stratford, Ontario — In a significant development for lifelong learning, Stratford is set to introduce ‘Stratford Third Age Learning’ (S3AL), an organization dedicated to providing seniors with opportunities for active learning. Unlike traditional passive learning methods such as listening to speakers or watching plays, S33AL emphasizes active engagement, stimulating various parts of the brain and fostering a more dynamic learning experience.
The initiative has been in the works since last year, with a dedicated steering committee under the leadership of Dr. Jean Hewitt and Ev Scott working diligently to bring this vision to fruition. The committee’s efforts have culminated in the launch of four courses scheduled for this spring, each designed to cater to the diverse interests and learning needs of seniors in the community. Aging Wisely, Doodling to Sketching, Music Magic, Living and Dying Well.
Class sizes are intentionally capped at 16 participants to ensure both small group and whole group interactions, promoting a more personalized and engaging learning environment.
The concept of active learning for seniors is not new. The idea originated in France in the 1960s and was later adopted by the United Kingdom as the University of the Third Age (U3A). This model has since spread to numerous countries, including Canada, where organizations like the London Society for Learning in Retirement (SLR) have been offering such programs for over 30 years.
In Ontario, the Third Age Network (TAN) has been instrumental in promoting lifelong learning among seniors. TAN actively engages lifelong learning groups in a dynamic network to collaboratively promote the benefits of, and facilitate the availability of high-quality later life learning in Ontario.
The launch of S3AL in Stratford represents a significant addition to this network, offering local seniors a new avenue to engage in meaningful educational activities. By focusing on active learning, the new organization aims to enhance cognitive function, foster social connections, and contribute to the overall well-being of seniors in the community.