Yes, as many as you like.

A basic principle of the U3A is that of ‘shared learning’. The people who run groups are U3A members themselves and they volunteer to lead a group. Not all groups require an ‘expert’ to lead them. In many cases the group leader is simply a member who volunteers to coordinate the group’s programme of meetings, and claims no more knowledge or skill than the average group member. It’s worth mentioning that joining the U3A doesn’t mean that you will be expected to be a group leader, however we hope that you might consider that role in time.

The members themselves. Our U3A has a Groups Co-ordinator, with the job of providing help in setting up groups, finding suitable locations, and so on. But the committee doesn’t decide which groups will be offered. All groups come about as a result of members expressing an interest in a particular subject.

You will never be forced to do anything. Whether you do things between meetings depends on the type of group, and the time that you are able to give to it. For instance, if you join a foreign language group it makes sense to practise what has been covered in the group meeting. The group leader may in fact suggest some 'homework', and obviously you will learn more quickly if you find the time to do it. Other groups, such as literature groups, involve doing some private reading and bringing your opinions to discuss at the next meeting. Still other groups may involve members being advised to do some background exploration of a subject in advance of a talk or discussion to be held later. In some groups the members take turns to give a presentation or host a session. But such presentations or sessions are always voluntary, and you certainly won’t be pressurised into giving one if you don’t feel able to.

It depends on the subject. In some cases this does not matter at all (those with knowledge share it with those who haven’t), but in other cases this can be relevant. The Group Leader can give advice on whether the group is suitable for you, given your existing knowledge.

In a variety of places. Small groups often hold their meetings in houses, sometimes the home of the group leader, sometimes the homes of group members on a rotational basis. Bigger groups often use a hired hall. If so, members contribute to the hire cost. Much depends on the resources needed. A large group may require special facilities and this will limit the range of suitable locations. Members often share transport, and those without a car will often be able to get a lift with another member.

It’s best first of all to have a word with the relevant group leader. He or she will explain how the group operates, such as confirming when and where the group meets, how the meetings are organised, and what the current programme of meetings involves. You should be able to assess whether the group in question seems to fit the bill for you.

You will be more than welcome to attend a group session a couple of times, to see if it is suitable.

We are always on the lookout for potential new groups, and it’s possible that your interest is shared by others. The first step is to contact the Groups Co-ordinator or committee to find out if the subject or activity has already been suggested by others. Usually the next step is to put out feelers at a monthly meeting. If sufficient people express an interest, it’s a short step to getting the new group off the ground. The Groups Co-ordinator will advise on suitable times and places to hold your meetings, and there’s also some start-up money available if resources are needed. Putting forward an idea for a new group doesn’t necessarily mean that you will have to be the group leader: someone else may be willing to do this.

This can happen. Some groups are very popular. But there is often a way round the problem. Sometimes a group splits into two, with each sub-group meeting at a different time. Or maybe two groups are formed with slightly different aims or skills, e.g. a beginners’ group and a more advanced group. In some cases the problem is solved simply by moving to a more spacious location. However, in a few cases it’s possible that a waiting list will have to be formed.

Yes - Interest Groups Online is a national programme offered by the Third Age Trust which might be suitable if you are unable to attend our 'in person' meetings. It is completely separate from all local u3as, including Bromsgrove u3a. Paying to use the Interest Groups Online service doesn't include membership of Bromsgrove u3a. You can of course do both but if it's a choice, please join Bromsgrove u3a where you'll find a friendly face-to-face welcome.