January 9, 2026
You’re never too old to learn a new skill - in fact, the older you get, the more important having a hobby is.
Around 215 people attended this year’s Methven Summer School, a multi-day learning event with courses on everything from calligraphy to woodworking.
“We used to aim this at people retiring, looking for something to try like golf or art. Now we cover a broader audience,” committee member Sandy Redmond.
“It tends to be middle-aged ladies, but we get guys for things like sausage making.”
The school has run for over 40 years. Art and golf are always on offer, but the rest of the classes change year to year.
“I've done quite a few courses. I've even done it with my children,” Redmond said.
“It’s a good way to have a try at something without having to invest in all the materials.”
Chairperson Judith Sommerville said there are often repeat attendees to the courses.
“We had pottery yesterday, we had 13 people. And I think four or five of them did pottery last year.
“You bring your inner child back out again,” Somerville said; “Lots of people say ‘I've never done this since I was a kid’.”
Coordinator Rosa Watson said the summer school also shows the scope of crafts and skills that people can glean from local businesses and teachers.
“You learn what talent there is out there.”
She said being able to take something home after the school - a wooden planter box, a sketch, a journal and so on - was a huge bonus.
“It’s for people that just want to learn a new skill, want to increase their abilities and challenge themselves.”
She encouraged those sitting on the fence to sign up next year.
“Just extend yourself.”
By Anisha Satya
You’re never too old to learn a new skill - in fact, the older you get, the more important having a hobby is.
Around 215 people attended this year’s Methven Summer School, a multi-day learning event with courses on everything from calligraphy to woodworking.
“We used to aim this at people retiring, looking for something to try like golf or art. Now we cover a broader audience,” committee member Sandy Redmond.
“It tends to be middle-aged ladies, but we get guys for things like sausage making.”
The school has run for over 40 years. Art and golf are always on offer, but the rest of the classes change year to year.
“I've done quite a few courses. I've even done it with my children,” Redmond said.
“It’s a good way to have a try at something without having to invest in all the materials.”
Chairperson Judith Sommerville said there are often repeat attendees to the courses.
“We had pottery yesterday, we had 13 people. And I think four or five of them did pottery last year.
“You bring your inner child back out again,” Somerville said; “Lots of people say ‘I've never done this since I was a kid’.”
Coordinator Rosa Watson said the summer school also shows the scope of crafts and skills that people can glean from local businesses and teachers.
“You learn what talent there is out there.”
She said being able to take something home after the school - a wooden planter box, a sketch, a journal and so on - was a huge bonus.
“It’s for people that just want to learn a new skill, want to increase their abilities and challenge themselves.”
She encouraged those sitting on the fence to sign up next year.
“Just extend yourself.”
By Anisha Satya
