The Academy for Lifelong Learning Toronto offers a full program of workshops / courses, talks, walks, clubs and special events for older adults who want to be part of an active learning community.

We offer participatory workshops, ideal for active learners. This makes the Academy unique among lifelong learning organizations in Toronto. We are a not-for-profit organization operated by volunteers, with a mission to promote learning and social interaction through the exchange of ideas and stimulating discussion.

Since 1991, the Academy has welcomed members who are intellectually curious, interested in exploring and understanding the world, sharing ideas, and meeting others in a learning environment that is enjoyable and supportive.

A full program of workshops / courses is offered both in-person in Toronto, and online via Zoom. Online workshops allow for virtual attendance from practically anywhere. Academy members may register for up to four workshops as part of their membership fee.

The Academy is a long-term member of TAN (Third Age Learning Network).

Questions? Go to our Contact page to submit your question online.

The Academy offers in-person workshops at Tartu College, 310 Bloor Street West, Toronto, between Spadina and St. George subway stations.

The Academy for Lifelong Learning Toronto is an independent volunteer organization of active life learners interested in intellectual discussion and collegiality through peer study, workshops, talks, walks and other events.

Vision

The Academy for Lifelong Learning Toronto is known and respected as a dynamic peer learning organization with an active, diverse and sustainable membership base.

Core Values and Beliefs

Members of the Academy:

• Value intellectual challenge, diversity of opinion and new ideas
• Value education and continued learning in a variety of subject areas
• Believe learning takes place through a variety of activities and formats, including research, presentations and the exchange of information and ideas through stimulating discussion
• Value sharing experiences and ideas with peers in social and informal learning activities
• Believe that a volunteer organization depends on individuals who share a sense of responsibility to contribute to the organization

Goals

• To provide a program of daytime peer-led workshops based on self-directed learning
• To promote a collegial atmosphere by providing opportunities for social activity
• To remain a not-for-profit, volunteer organization
• To ensure the long-term viability of the Academy

Executive Officers

President: Barrie Wilson
Vice President: Susan Schwartz
Treasurer: Adrian Ryans
Assistant Treasurer: Frank Miller
Secretary: Molly Moss
Assistant Secretary: Darlene Varaleau

Other Board Members

Committee Chairs and Assistant Chairs

Communications & Marketing Committee
Chair: Cindy Bromley
Assistant Chair: Adele Robertson

Curriculum Committee
Chair: David Phillips
Assistant Chair: Linda Reeser

Membership Committee
Chair: John Weatherburn
Assistant Chair: Vera Ranieri

Special Events & Activities Committee
Chair: Sharon Harris
Assistant Chair: Ellen Mary Mills

Talks Committee
Chair: Corinne Palmer
Assistant Chair: Janine Murray

Ex Officio Board Members
Past President: Thea Herman
Technical Team Lead: Enrique Biber

Workshops

Workshops are offered on a wide range of topics including the arts, science, history, current affairs, and film. They are developed and led by Academy members called “facilitators”. Some workshops operate as discussion groups where members may lead a discussion on a specific topic. In other workshops, members research and deliver presentations on the subject of their choice and lively discussion follows. Workshops run in the Fall and Winter from September to March so members typically join / renew memberships in April but may join / renew anytime (except February / March) for the current Academy year.

Inspiring Talks

Inspiring Talks are held during the Fall and Winter terms. They provide an opportunity for members and guests to hear talks on a wide range of topics, many given by outside experts. The Talks include an annual debate by Academy members and sessions featuring impressive Workshop presentations.

Distinguished Speaker Series

Spring Talks are held on Wednesday mornings in April and May, this series features well-known speakers who present thought-provoking talks on a broad range of topics for members and guests.

Walks

Academy members can join walks through Toronto neighborhoods, followed by lunches at local restaurants. Walks are scheduled year round.

Special Events and Activities

The Academy hosts events and activities for its members throughout the year, including a series of Special Interest Groups, and events such as luncheons, celebrations of volunteer work, and Annual General Meeting (AGM) receptions.

News

The Academy keeps its members up-to-date through a weekly  “News for Next Week” email featuring current events, workshop news and participatory opportunities.