u3a Beginners Bridge Programme Online

If you are interested in learning to play Bridge and are comfortable using your computer for learning materials and for practice sessions, you may like to consider this new opportunity for all u3a members. It was successfully piloted in 2023-4 by the Bridge Adviser for the Third Age Trust, Steve Carter, with a panel of u3a volunteers who are all experienced players and teachers.

The programme comprises:-

1. Class materials and exercises that you study at home (about 2 hours per week).
2. A weekly Monday afternoon meeting / seminar online where key points are studied and discussed and questions are answered. (1 Hour)
3. Two practice sessions per week (Monday & Tuesday afternoons) where you play hands with other class members online. (1 ½ hours) – Students are not expected to attend both sessions.

The next course will start in 3Q 2024 and end in 1Q 2025. By the end of that time, you will be able to enjoy Bridge games with friends and play in a novices Bridge Club. The good news is that there is no tuition fee for the programme (it is run by volunteers). There is a small annual fee for the use of online Bridge platforms.

You can test the waters!

If you want to consider how this mode of learning Bridge might suit you, the programme begins with a 3-5 week online opportunity to learn “Mini Bridge” which shows you the basics of Bridge and familiarises you with the computer skills you need for the programme.

After the MiniBridge you can decide whether to join the main programme or call it a day!

More Information and Application

The first step is to complete the Expression of Interest Form that you will find on the website:-

www.bridgewebs.com/u3abridgegroup

“Many games provide fun, but Bridge grips you.  It exercises your mind. Your mind can rust, but Bridge prevents the rust from forming.”

Martina Navratilova