We are a small, and relatively recent, group of some seven signed-up members. The keynote of the group is informality. We meet once a month in one another’s houses for up to a couple of hours. The meetings are very informal; recently I, as designated group leader, have given a short talk about some aspect of German life to kick off the meeting. Subjects have included Chimneysweeps, Christmas trees, and, most recently, the origins of the domestic washing powder, ‘Persil’. One or other of the members of the group will then usually give a short talk on some topic of their own choosing. On one occasion we watched part of a program about the architecture of Dresden a member had taped from a German satellite channel; on another occasion the same member brought along a CD by a well-known ‘Schlager’ singer. It all serves to keep us talking. We tend to find that the ensuing conversations keep us fairly busy until the meeting draws to a natural end.

While it would be stimulating were we able to find some activities or outings to get us out of our homes, there have been none such to date: day-trips to Germany are just that bit too far.

On that light note, I will leave you with an invitation. Should the above not have put you off, and should you fancy a not-too-strenuous couple of hours every month practicing whatever level of German you have, please feel free to get in touch with me.

To send a message to a Group Leader, please use the Contact Point page. Current Group Status: Seeking new members

Tom