NLU3A is the North London U3A (formerly University of the Third Age) with meetings in Finchley, Highgate, Muswell Hill and nearby areas. Each U3A is about people coming together to continue their educational, social and creative interests in a friendly and informal environment.
Groups
Each Interest Group has a coordinator (sometimes two) who organises it and, with the group’s participation, sets the tone and agenda. Many NLU3A members who are experts in their field and share their knowledge and experience generously. However, many groups do not have an expert leader but simply an enthusiast who is taking part equally with others in the group. In a few cases, group members may be asked for a modest extra payment (for example, if a professional tutor is employed or for higher than usual venue costs).
Get involved
We are a co-operative organisation, being self-run and self-managing. Nobody is paid, but there is great satisfaction in seeing this organisation working well, and we aim for a friendly atmosphere where every member feels at home. As well as Group Coordinators, we always need people to help run the organisation, from being a committee member to helping with catering, so please consider how you can get involved. To find out more, just contact a committee member.
Venues
Smaller groups mostly meet in members' homes, while larger groups and those involving physical activities usually meet in hired spaces. Some groups have no fixed home but meet for outdoor walks and visits, while some other groups meet only online. Our Monthly Meetings, which usually have a guest speaker, are currently held in a church in Finchley. While most NLU3A members live in the local area, there is no 'catchment area' and you are welcome to join NLU3A from further afield if the necessary travel works for you.
Meeting people
Our Monthly Meetings always start with tea/coffee and social time before the talk. In addition to these events and Interest Group meetings, there are also one-day visits, both within London and further afield, which are open to all members. Besides our regular events, we often organise a Summer Programme and a festive event around Christmas. NLU3A members also take part in events organised by national u3a and London Region of U3As.
Get in touch
To find out more about NLU3A, email our Membership Secretary at membership@nlu3a.org.uk. Or come to one of our Monthly Meetings: non-members are welcome to attend a meeting to try us out, and you are assured of a friendly welcome.
As a general introduction to U3A, you might like to watch the video below. It is just five minutes long and was produced by the national office of U3A.