Olive Keogh takes a look at some interesting courses

Time to plant your summer colour bud

As the spring bulbs start poking their heads bravely above the soil, those with the gardening bug will already be making plans for their summer colour schemes. If you're in the vicinity of Bandon, Co Cork, on Monday, April 15th, you will be able to pick up some ideas for eye-catching container planting with John Hosford of Hosford's geraniums nursery. Mr Hosford is scheduled to give a talk on hanging baskets and window boxes on that night in the Munster Arms Hotel, Bandon, starting at 8 p.m. The organisers of the talk are the Bandon Flower Club. Hosford's garden centre runs a programme of horticultural events during the year. For a copy of the event guide, contact (023) 39159.

Learning the art of storytelling

The Education and Outreach department of the National Museum of Ireland provides a rich resource for teachers and those involved with children's/youth groups. Groups are welcomed at the museum's three venues: Collins Barracks, Kildare Street and Merrion Street, where a range of activities can be organised including guided tours and art workshops. Also available is a storytelling workshop, which introduces students to the art of storytelling using the Museum's collections as inspiration. A drama workshop is also available and topics covered include Walk like an Egyptian, the Vikings in Ireland and Who's Who in 1798. Advance booking is required for all activities. Teachers or group leaders who prefer to prepare their own material are invited to request a resource pack in advance. To book an activity or to order a copy of the teacher's pack contact the education and outreach department at (01) 677 7444 (ext 332/426) or e-mail bookings.nmi@indigo.ie.

Restore your old picture frames

If you have a pretty piece of furniture or an old mirror or picture frame with a gilt finish that has seen better days, you would probably be able to tackle its restoration yourself following an intensive course in gilding techniques run by the widely experienced professional gilder, Emily Naper.

The courses take place at the Loughcrew Creative Centre in Co Meath. The next two courses take place from February 11th to 13th and from March 11th to 13th. Beginners as well as those with experience are welcome and as the classes are very small (two to 6 people), there is a lot of individual attention for all. The courses attract people from a wide range of backgrounds from those thinking of a career change to those who have something at home they would like to restore themselves. The courses cost €450. Accommodation is available at Loughcrew House itself or at B&Bs nearby.

For more information contact (049) 8541356.

Starting study groups for older people

For many people, the desire to learn doesn't stop as they get older, but learning needs and methods may change. Learning in the Third Age is the term coined to describe learning for older people and it can take many forms. U3A (university of the third age) groups are usually set up by people who come together to learn (such as a reading or history group) in a way that suits them. Pamela Whitaker is the U3A education development officer with Age Action Ireland and she can put those interested in starting a U3A group in contact with others who have done so. Phone (01) 475 6989.