Groups Schedule
For people no longer in fulltime employment for lifelong learning and social activities.
Need to see contact details, or find a specific group or activity? Go to Groups by Name
Choose the day and time you are interested in.
A Year in History
Status
Current
Tuesday am
From
10:00
To
12:00
Monthly 2nd and 4th Tuesdays.
Currently meeting via Zoom, we choose a year and members prepare a presentation on any topic of their choice relevant to that year, as much latitude as required being allowed for explanations of cause and effect. We typically spend five sessions or more on a chosen year, and presentations average about 40 minutes. Our approach is unsystematic, but not unscholarly, and the variety of presentations is a delight.
Adventures in Music
Status
Suspended
Friday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
Sessions are currently suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Sessions are on alternate Friday afternoons, starting at 2.00pm and lasting up to two hours. Pieces follow a brief background and are followed by refreshments and maybe more music and discussion. The content will appeal to anyone interested in any genre of classical music.
Art Appreciation
Status
Suspended
Wednesday pm
From
14:30
To
15:30
Third Wednesday of each month, except August, 2.30pm - 3.30pm.
Re starting on September 15th - new members welcome
Powerpoint presentations are used to illustrate the life and work of an artist, or an art related theme.
Art and Design
Status
Current
Wednesday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month
Group sessions of drawing and painting incorporating the formal elements of art and design using water-based paints and mixed media materials. The sessions will cover knowledge of colour and of composition in drawing – using line, tone, pattern and perspective. The group is not suitable for absolute beginners and the maximum group size is 14. Currently, meetings are held via Zoom.
Birdwatching 1
Status
Current
Tuesday am
From
To
Alternate Tuesdays
Birdwatching Groups are starting again with just six of us meeting fairly locally. We will build up to the full strength and go further afield when the COVID regulations allow. As there are more than 5 in a my groups, I am taking on Wednesdays as well for a short while in order to take out as many members as possible. I am also extending the season to make up for lost time, so after a short summer break we will resume outings in the Autumn.
Trips to birdwatching spots in and around London are arranged between December and May on alternate Tuesdays. Some walking involved (2-7 miles). Binoculars and email essential. Details from leader.
Birdwatching 2
Status
Current
Tuesday am
From
To
Alternate Tuesdays
Birdwatching Groups are starting again with just six of us meeting fairly locally. We will build up to the full strength and go further afield when the COVID regulations allow. As there are more than 5 in a my groups, I am taking on Wednesdays as well for a short while in order to take out as many members as possible. I am also extending the season to make up for lost time, so after a short summer break we will resume outings in the Autumn.
Trips to birdwatching spots in and around London are arranged between December and May on alternate Tuesdays. Some walking involved (2-7 miles). Binoculars and email essential. Details from leader.
Book Club 1
Status
Current
Thursday am
From
10:30
To
12:30
Monthly on the last Thursday.
This group, which currently meets via Skype, is run by the members with each one in turn suggesting a book for the next meeting. New members very welcome.
Book Club 2
Status
Current
Wednesday evening
From
To
Monthly Wednesday evenings
Currently meeting via Zoom, we read both new and classic novels. We also share some wine and have a good chat about books and everything else. New members are very welcome.
Book Club 3
Status
Current
Thursday am
From
To
monthly on third Thursday
We are a friendly group, currently meeting via Zoom. Members take it in turn to choose a book and lead the discussion. We welcome a wide variety – fiction and non-fiction.
Book Club 4
Status
Current
Thursday pm
From
14:00
To
first Thursday of the month
We are currently meeting via Zoom. Members take it in turns to choose a book and introduce it.
Bridge 1
Status
Suspended
Thursday am
From
10:00
To
12:30
Alternate Thursdays
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
A mixed ability, 'help each other' group, not for absolute beginners, but improvers are welcome.
Bridge 2
Status
Suspended
Monday pm
From
14:00
To
16:30
Alternate Mondays
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased, although some members play online.
Play and improve as part of a friendly, relaxed group. Not suitable for beginners. Standard ACOL used, but with opportunity to practise conventions.
Bridge for Beginners
Status
Suspended
Wednesday am
From
10:00
To
12:30
Twice a month on the first and third Wednesdays
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group provides an introduction to the game. from 10.00 am to 12.30 pm.
Bridge for Improvers
Status
Suspended
Tuesday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
most Tuesdays
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased, although some members play online.
This is a new group playing bridge with support and help available from a qualified bridge teacher.
Bridge, Social
Status
Suspended
Thursday pm
From
14:00
To
16:30
Alternate Thursdays
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Play Contract Bridge in a relaxed atmosphere under no time pressures. Not suitable for beginners. Standard ACOL used but with agreed conventions.
Canasta 1
Status
Suspended
Thursday pm
From
14:00
To
Weekly
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Always accessible by public transport and parking usually available.
Canasta 2
Status
Suspended
Tuesday pm
From
14:30
To
Fortnightly
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Tuesdays from 2.30pm.
Canasta 3
Status
Suspended
Saturday pm
From
14:00
To
1st and 3rd Saturdays each month
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Game starts at 2.00pm
Canasta 4
Status
Suspended
Wednesday evening
From
19:00
To
Alternate Wednesday evenings
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Cinema
Status
Suspended
Tuesday pm
From
To
Monthly on 3rd Tuesday
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Films chosen by group members, usually with coffee and discussion immediately afterwards; afternoons only.
Cosmology
Status
Current
Tuesday pm
From
15:00
To
17:00
2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month
This group is for members interested in Cosmology and Physics. We meet via Zoom to view, discuss and learn from on-line courses, lectures and videos. Some knowledge of science, especially Physics or Maths would be useful.
Creative Textiles and Thread
Status
Current
Thursday pm
From
14:00
To
Fortnightly
Meeting via Zoom and also using WhatsApp, this is a group for people who enjoy doing things with textiles and thread. This could be anything from the very practical to highly decorative work. The emphasis will be on gaining new skills and combining them imaginatively. We will explore traditional and newer techniques, both academically and practically by visiting exhibitions, museums and galleries, running workshops to learn or improve our skills (using group members’ expertise and online or print resources) and having design sessions which could be anything from colour theory to planning individual or group projects.
Creative Writing 1
Status
Current
Thursday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
Third Thursday of every month
Friendly group currently meeting on Skype. Assignments are set by group members in turn and we read and discuss what we have written.
Creative Writing 2
Status
Current
Wednesday am
From
10:30
To
12:30
Monthly on third Wednesday
Currently meeting via Zoom, this is a fairly new group, which will be experimenting with formats, styles and genres.
Cribbage
Status
Suspended
Tuesday pm
From
14:30
To
16:30
twice a month
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
For 2, 3 or 4 players. Complete beginners welcome.
Current Affairs 1
Status
Suspended
Wednesday am
From
10:30
To
12:00
Alternate Wednesdays
Group sessions have been suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group deals with current affairs in the widest sense - political, cultural, social, long term as well as short term and with their background. At most meetings two subjects are discussed. The first is agreed beforehand to allow members to think about it and do research. Subjects recently discussed include our two-party system, knife crime, smoking and vaping, Notre Dame fire, local elections, child poverty in the UK, EU elections, faith schools, Trump’s visit to London, modern media of communications and their effect on society, Middle East, prorogation of Parliament, Hong Kong protests.
Current Affairs 2
Status
Current
Monday pm
From
14:30
To
16:30
Alternate Mondays
Meeting via Zoom, the group discusses recent events in the news as well as debating issues such as drug legislation, Britain’s foreign policy, the Middle East conflict and the BBC, not to mention Coronavirus and Brexit.
Current Affairs 3
Status
Current
Tuesday pm
From
To
Third Tuesday afternoon of the month
Currently meeting via Zoom, this fairly new and friendly group discusses a wide range of Current Affairs. For the first part of the meeting members can raise issues that they have noticed in the previous month. The second half concentrates on a special topic which will have been agreed at the previous meeting. As we are the newest Current Affairs Group, we still have a few vacancies. We warmly welcome a very broad range of opinions and views.
Current Affairs 4
Status
Discontinued
Tuesday pm
From
To
First and third Tuesday of the month
This group has now been discontinued.
Current Affairs 5
Status
Current
Monday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
Monthly on the first Monday of each month
We are currently meeting via Zoom. During the first half of our meeting we have a general discussion about events and issues in the news. In the second half, discussion focuses on a single topical issue selected by the group at the previous meeting (and on which group members will hopefully do some reading/research). We also make occasional group visits to organisations which play an important role in the running of society, such as national and local government, the legal system, the health service, transport, and the financial and commercial sectors. 2.00pm for about two hours.
Current Affairs 6
Status
Current
Wednesday pm
From
14:30
To
once a month on a Wednesday
We are currently meeting via Zoom and, like some of the other groups, we spend the first part discussing recent events and issues. In the second part, we discuss in depth topics which members have chosen prior to the meeting. Each member researches the topics using articles in newspapers, magazines and the internet before the meeting.
Cycling
Status
Current
Monday am
From
To
Fortnightly on Monday mornings
Restarting on April 12th April following Covid regulations.
We meet for a ride along back roads and cycle paths, around 20-30 miles, with sometimes a longer ride. There are always options for people to break their journey at a station.
Easy French
Status
Suspended
Thursday am
From
10:30
To
12:00
Alternate Thursdays
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased but the group leader distributes articles in French by email.
For those with just a little French, maybe from school days, who want to brush it up, possibly for travel or holidays. A very relaxed and convivial approach, with emphasis on the spoken language.
Family History 1
Status
Current
Thursday pm
From
15:30
To
16:30
Fortnightly on Thursday
Meeting via Zoom, this is a self-help group of individuals interested in finding out about their ancestors, taking advantage of the ever-increasing resources available via the internet. The group leader has been investigating her own family histories for many years so hopefully can help members avoid some of the pitfalls and dead-ends which we inevitably encounter. Members of the group are actively researching their own families and the sharing of information gained is of benefit to the whole group. New members are welcome but in the current situation must have access to a computer in order to be able to progress.
Family History 2 - Sharing
Status
Suspended
Wednesday am
From
10:30
To
12:00
First Wednesday of every month throughout the year.
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
An experienced family historian and creative writing teacher is leading a group aimed at those who have already researched their family history but would like support in presenting their discoveries in a style and format that can easily be shared with others and that will interest and engage its readers. Group members are coached towards this within a collaborative learning environment.
Family History 3 - Research
Status
Suspended
Tuesday am
From
10:15
To
12:15
Monthly on 2nd Tuesday
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group follows a programme designed to develop and extend the research skills, understanding and knowledge that help family historians have confidence in the integrity of their personal research. Overcoming our research “blocks” is a key focus. There is a small charge for the room hire (shared between group members).
France Culture
Status
Current
Monday pm
From
14:30
To
Fortnightly on alternate Mondays
A new group with a Zoom friendly format for members with a good command of French. As restirictions lift we will try to meet outdoors when possible, with a fall back to Zoom. We will be exploring all aspects of French culture by reading articles, watching short videos and discussing what we find – with the emphasis being on the spoken word. Meetings alternate with Parlons Français.
France Encore
Status
Suspended
Monday am
From
10:30
To
12:30
Weekly
Group sessions are suspended until we can all meet safely indoors again, probably September.
For those with a thorough knowledge of the French language and grammar. The aim is to use short extracts from the French media to foster the ability to participate fluently and intuitively in French conversation covering a range of topics.
French Adv Revision 1 and 2
Status
Current
Thursday am
From
To
Alternate Thursday mornings
For members with a good knowledge of French. We currently meet via Zoom and also use email. We have structured sessions of discussion based on texts from French press or internet, general conversation and revision of key grammar points (e.g. the dreaded subjunctive).
French Advanced Conversation
Status
Current
Thursday am
From
10:00
To
12:00
Alternate Thursdays
Weather permitting, 6 Group members are taking turns to meet outdoors on alternate weeks. Zoom remains a fallback if it rains - which has the benefit of accommodating everyone.
In a relaxed atmosphere you will be encouraged to speak French and gradually become more confident and fluent, with increasing understanding. Learn how to listen for the general meaning, not translating word for word, so that you can continue to participate in any conversation.
French Cafe Conversation
Status
Suspended
Friday am
From
10:30
To
First Friday of each month
Meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
A chance to speak French once a month with members from other U3A groups, not just French groups. We meet over a cup of coffee and stay for as long or short a time as you wish.
French Converse Improvers
Status
Current
Thursday am
From
11:00
To
12:30
Meeting via Zoom, we are a friendly informal group with the aim of improving members’ fluency. We start each meeting with a general discussion of individual activities/topical items of interest then discuss prepared questions on a French novel.
Friday Walks
Status
Current
Friday am
From
10:15
To
First and third Friday of each month from February to November.
Walks starting in April using WhatsApp for planning to keep to groups of max 6
The walks are generally of 4 to 5 miles and are designed to be exploratory, not guided historical walks. They are nearly always within the Freedom pass area. The focus of the walks is to take some exercise, to enjoy the social side of walking with others and to discover new places in London. Members of the group are expected to take turns in choosing and leading the walks. There are lots of suggestions for walks online and in books available in local libraries.
Gardening
Status
Suspended
Wednesday am
From
10:30
To
12:30
Last Wednesday of each month
Meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Members share garden experience, knowledge, cuttings, seedlings etc. Outside visits are arranged in Spring, Summer and Autumn.
General History
Status
Suspended
Wednesday pm
From
To
Last Wednesday of the month
Meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
The format of our meetings can be either a presentation (if a group member wishes to make one) or DVDs on historical and related themes, followed by discussion. We usually meet in the afternoon.
German Conversation
Status
Suspended
Tuesday am
From
10:30
To
12:15
Alternate Tuesdays
Meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Conversation, some classical and modern German literature and games with minimal grammar.
German Int Adv Converse
Status
Current
Monday pm
From
14:00
To
15:30
Fortnightly on Monday afternoons
We currently meet via Zoom for lively general conversation, reading and discussing texts from German papers or literature. Later in the year, weather and Covid-19 regulations permitting, we will meet outside in the garden following all government/U3A guidelines.
Get Together
Status
Current
Ad hoc
From
To
Government roadmap permitting, we have regular Sunday Lunches and Coffee Mornings, which are announced in the newsletter under Get Together and also in the updates. These are relaxed and friendly opportunities to meet other members. Places for the lunches need to be reserved by email as there are limited numbers. To access upcoming get togethers on the website, go to the Events Diary page and select Get Together.
Coffee Mornings: 15th July at Elys and 12th August at M&S at the Savacentre, both at 11a.m. Contact Frances Partridge at
Sunday Lunches: 25th July at Diba on Wimbledon Broadway and 22nd August at The Olive Garden Raynes Park, both at 1 p. m. Contact Patricia da Costa at . Please be aware that we can only accommodate 10 people at each of these lunches, so please let Patricia know as soon as possible if you wish to attend.
Golf Buddies
Status
Suspended
Monday am
From
10:30
To
Every third Monday
Meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Are you interested in playing golf but not good enough to play in a club? If you would like to have company in your efforts to play a round, do come and join us.
Hist Western Architecture
Status
Current
Monday am
From
10:00
To
12:00
Monthly on Mondays. Please call the leader Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00
Meeting in line with Covid restrictions.
The group continues to follow a series of lectures centred mainly on the History of Western Architecture. New members are welcome at any time. Sessions start with chat and refreshments. .
History in Context
Status
Suspended
Tuesday
From
14:00
To
Monthly on Tuesday afternoons. Please call the leader Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group is run as a workshop with everybody contributing. Currently studying William I and William II. From 2.00pm with a break for tea and biscuits.
History of Stained Glass
Status
Suspended
Monday am
From
10:30
To
12:00
Tea/coffee and biscuits from 10.00am. Please call the leader Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
The course will reach the Nineteenth Century in January 2020 and will continue through to the present day in the months to come. Monthly.
How the Past has Formed Us
Status
Current
Tuesday am
From
10:30
To
12:30
Monthly. Ten minute walk up a steep hill from Southfields Tube station. 39 and 493 buses go almost past the door and there is some free street parking, though increasingly far from the school.
Discussion papers are circulated by email and Zoom is used for meetings on a more social basis. The group studies and discusses how our human lives and society have been shaped by the past. Subjects chosen by the group are introduced by members in turn, leading to exploration of the historical impact of any aspect of the natural world, or human culture, and how that past impact affects the way we think and act today.
Improve Your Singing 1
Status
Suspended
Thursday am, Friday am
From
10:00
To
12:00
Alternate Thursdays and Fridays
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Improve your Singing comprises two small choral groups that meet in Morden. We sing a wide range of repertoire and the leader is a professional singer and teacher, who is able to help with vocal technique by working with the group and sometimes individually. Vacancies exist in both groups. Group 1 meets on , 10.00am - 12.00pm. Group 2 meets on alternate Fridays, 10.00am - 12.00pm.
Improve Your Singing 2
Status
Suspended
Friday am
From
10:00
To
12:00
Alternate Fridays
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Improve your Singing comprises two small choral groups that meet in Morden. We sing a wide range of repertoire and the leader is a professional singer and teacher, who is able to help with vocal technique by working with the group and sometimes individually. Vacancies exist in both groups. Group 1 meets on , 10.00am - 12.00pm. Group 2 meets on alternate Fridays, 10.00am - 12.00pm.
Indian Classical Dance
Status
Suspended
Irregular
From
17:00
To
20:30
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
If you are interested in Indian culture, dance and music, you may like to join this group which attends free evening concerts at the Nehru Centre in Green Park. Travel by Tube and little a bit of walking. We meet at Morden Station at 5.00pm and the concerts are at 6.30pm. Day varies.
Italian Intermediate Adv
Status
Current
Monday am
From
10:00
To
12:00
Alternate Mondays
Meeting via Zoom, this is a friendly self-help group, some of whose members take it in turns to run the sessions. Each session includes some conversation, reading, listening and grammar. A good basic knowledge of Italian is required. New members are welcome.
Italian Upper Intermediate
Status
Current
Wednesday am
From
10:15
To
12:00
Alternate Wednesdays
For those with some knowledge of Italian, without being fluent. Meeting via Zoom, we discuss articles, as well as things we have done or seen, and use grammar and listening exercises.
Jazz Appreciation
Status
Current
Friday pm
From
14:00
To
16:30
Last Friday of each month
Our group meets via Zoom to learn about, share music tracks, and discuss the many facets of jazz we have discovered on different media. Our programme is guided by the U3A National Jazz Co-ordinator, but its development is very much our own.
Knitting and Crochet
Status
Suspended
Friday pm
From
14:30
To
16:30
1st and 3rd Fridays of the month
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased, although the group meets socially by Skype.
This is a new group. All levels of ability welcome. Come along and learn from each other. Bring your own pattern and projects or join a group project to make items for the charity Knit for Peace UK, which sends clothes, blankets, toys, etc to those in need.
Latin Intermediate
Status
Current
Wednesday am
From
10:30
To
12:30
Fortnightly on Wednesdays with optional catch-up sessions on the Wednesdays in between for students who feel very rusty.
The group has been running successfully for several years but we can accommodate newcomers provided they have a basic knowledge of Latin grammar, albeit rusty. Meeting via Zoom, we revise points of grammar and practise the language in order to enjoy reading and discussing Latin texts in a relaxed atmosphere.
Law in Action
Status
Suspended
Irregular
From
To
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group meets as a series of short courses on different aspects of law and famous cases. Meets on various days.
Local History
Status
Current
Thursday am
From
10:00
To
Usually last Thursday of the month
After a long gap, this friendly group has restarted, using Zoom. Newcomers with access to the internet are welcome. In more normal times, one member presents a talk or arranges a visit to a place of historical interest in the surrounding area. We are looking at not only Merton but also Richmond, Sutton, Wandsworth and Kingston. Subject possibilities are suggested, or members may wish to offer their own ideas.
Loose Enders
Status
Suspended
Saturday am
From
To
We meet about twice a month, always on Saturday.
Activities are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Every few months the group gets together in a member’s home and plans our programme, which includes theatre trips and visits to places of interest. We normally include lunch. A shared lunch is organised every 4 months or so.
Mah Jong
Status
Suspended
Monday pm
From
14:30
To
16:30
fortnightly on Mondays
Playing is suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
We are a mix of complete newcomers to the game, returning players who may not have played for many years, and one or two more experienced players. We have been having fun learning or remembering the game. There are several versions of Mah Jong. We use the British Mah Jong Association rules as our guide.
Nordic Walking
Status
Current
Tuesday am, Wednesday am
From
09:30
To
Weekly, alternating Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Restarting 29th March following Covid regulations
Nordic Walking is fun and sociable. It is also a specific fitness technique with the aim of improving physical fitness and wellbeing. It uses poles to add to the benefits of normal walks. Using the poles correctly helps to propel the walker along, so the walker works harder than usual but the support given by the poles makes it feel easier. To get the most out of Nordic Walking, we run introductory courses which teach the correct use of poles, walking technique and posture for which poles are provided. , starting 9.30 am.
Opera Appreciation
Status
Suspended
Thursday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
alternate Thursdays
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Sessions are held in a cinema environment, and usually are about 2 hours. Longer operas usually last more than one session. A wide variety of operas are shown on DVDs with subtitles, preceded by an introduction and followed (if time) by a discussion of the piece and its interpretation.
Painting and Sketching
Status
Suspended
Thursday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
Weekly
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group is aimed at those with any level of experience or ability who share a love of putting pen, pencil, brush or whatever to paper. Sessions have a focus e.g. still life, which group members are encouraged to approach from their own perceptions, medium, level of expertise, and the emphasis is on furthering current skills and learning new ones in a mutually supportive environment - and having fun! Charge of £6 in advance to cover eight 2 hour sessions.
Papier-mache Sculpture
Status
Current
Tuesday am
From
10:00
To
12:00
Weekly
Meetings are starting from 30th March in the garden, in line with Covid regulations
Have you ever thought you would like to try sculpture but couldn’t bear the thought of using clay? Why not try constructing in papier-mâché? It really is fun, and so easy to do. Really therapeutic, with the added advantage of recycling!
Parlons francais
Status
Current
Monday pm
From
14:30
To
16:30
Fortnightly on Mondays
The group plans to meet outdoors when possible with a fall back to Zoom. It is a group for members who already have a good command of French and would like to use it in discussions on a wide range of topics. The emphasis will be on spontaneous conversation, which could be prompted by articles from the French press, short video clips, or by the interests of any of the group members.
Patchwork and Quilting
Status
Suspended
Wednesday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
Monthly, 1st Wednesday
Group meetings are suspended but hope to start again in September, as long as Covid restrictions allow meetings at Drake House.
Sewing machine not required at meetings but some experience of hand sewing is required. Two hours of sewing and chat with amazing results! Whether you wish to follow a regular design or ‘block’ each month or ‘do your own thing’, it is exciting to produce a wonderful patchwork quilt, table runner or cushion. All group members are willing to help each other with advice, colour suggestions and practical demonstrations if needed. There is a charge of £2 per member, per month, for the room hire.
Philosophy
Status
Suspended
Wednesday am
From
10:30
To
12:00
Alternate Wednesdays, Spring, Summer and Autumn terms.
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
The Philosophy Group members do not need to have a philosophical background but should be interested in the questions which philosophy asks. It is a highly participative group, and members volunteer to introduce subjects for discussion. We synchronise with Current Affairs 1. New applicants are accepted for three trial meetings. Regular attendance required (common sense excuses accepted). About one third practise formal religion. Few members have had formal education in philosophy. Genders roughly equal.
Photography
Status
Current
Tuesday am
From
10:00
To
Alternate Tuesdays
Mostly we meet up with our Freedom Passes and cameras and go to one of the many great places in London. Sometimes, particularly in summer, we travel further afield. We also visit photographic exhibitions. All plans are made and agreed by the group at occasional meetings in Morden. We will make time to share our photographs and discuss any problems. There is no need for expensive equipment; any camera will do. Alternate Tuesdays, often meeting at 10.00am. New members are very welcome
Playreading 1
Status
Suspended
Friday am
From
10:00
To
Monthly on a Friday. Please call the leader Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Our group reads whole plays at a meeting without rehearsal. Members take it in turns to choose the play, prepare the session, cast the parts to ensure everyone has a good turn at reading. We borrow playsets from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and we also use local libraries. Thanks to the generosity of Merton U3A, who pays the membership fee, the group is only responsible for the fee for hire at each session, which is usually only £3.00 per person inclusive of postage. Break for tea/coffee and biscuits halfway through.
Playreading 2
Status
Suspended
Friday pm
From
14:00
To
First Friday of the month. Contact leader 10.00am - 3.00pm weekdays please.
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
We include three workshops in aspects of drama. We read playlets or excerpts from prominent playwrights. Scripts are provided and there is an opportunity for discussion. We subscribe to the Surrey County Drama Library. There is a charge of £3 per session to cover costs of hiring scripts. Refreshments available.
Poetry Appreciation
Status
Current
Monday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
Alternate Mondays
Communicating via email, members of the group take turns to introduce the poet/topic and everyone chooses poems to read and discuss. We have looked at a varied range of poetry, including the Metaphysical poets, Kipling and Tennyson.
Popular Science and Technology
Status
Current
Thursday am
From
10:30
To
12:30
Every four weeks
You don’t need to have a background in science to join us, just an enquiring mind. Meeting via Zoom, we cover a very wide range of subjects – from how our bodies function to astronomy, and renewable energy sources to how the internet works – anything that interests us. We have talks given by visiting speakers and some of our members, discussions covering popular and topical science and technology and we are also planning visits to places and exhibitions of interest. We are a thriving and welcoming group and are very happy for you to come and try us out. When we can meet personally, we share the costs of room hire and refreshments (about £1 a meeting).
QiGong
Status
Current
Wednesday am
From
10:45
To
Weekly
Group sessions will restart on 26th May in line with Mansel Road Centre safetly rules.
QiGong can be described as a meditation for the body, or health through movement. It is beneficial for relaxation, fitness and longevity. It is rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and consists of movements which improve posture and balance. It brings many health benefits, including well-being, energy and a strengthening of the immune system. Suitable for people of all ages, of any body shape or fitness level. The main requirements are an open mind and a commitment to do regular practice between sessions. Led by a qualified QiGong instructor,
Racketball
Status
Current
Thursday pm
From
15:00
To
16:00
Weekly
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Racketball is THE growing sport being actively taken up by seniors. We are keen to promote it, having found the non-sporty and those who have forgotten they were are enjoying the exercise. Racketball is played on a squash court but the racket and ball are similar in size to those used in tennis so the game is slower than squash and is appropriate for all ages and abilities. We provide coaching sessions and loan of equipment. Court hire £4.00/hr - cost shared by members and is usually around £2 each per hour. Weekly, Thursdays 3.00 to 4.00pm (but please check as times may vary).
Railways Appreciation
Status
Suspended
Irregular
From
To
Monthly
When Covid-19 restrictions are eased, this new group is intended to be all about railways – railway history, modern railways, heritage steam railways, HS2, Crossrail etc. Initially this will be a discussion group, but later it is hoped to visit places of railway interest, such as the London Transport Museum or the Mid-Hants Railway (Watercress Line).
Reading Herodotus' Histories
Status
Discontinued
Tuesday am
From
10:30
To
Third Tuesday of each month
This group has been discontinued.
We read selections from the work of the world's first historian, which centred around the titanic clash between the forces of east and west in the 5th century BC. Herodotus' interests and travels went much further: he gives many fascinating stories of the good and the great from all parts of the world he knew, though he did not believe them all himself.
Reading Short Stories
Status
Current
Monday am
From
10:30
To
12:00
2nd and 4th Mondays of each month.
We read a varied selection of short stories from newly published and established anthologies. Currently, members read the same stories and exchange views by email.
Recorder, Advanced
Status
Suspended
Tuesday pm
From
To
Fortnightly on Tuesday
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
The group meets usually in Merton Park, and plays a variety of recorder ensemble music, both classical and modern. We welcome experienced recorder players – descant, treble, tenor and bass. We have some instruments available to borrow. The emphasis is on enjoyment.
Recorder, All In Ensemble
Status
Suspended
Tuesday pm
From
14:00
To
Every fourth Tuesday
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group welcomes recorder players of all levels of expertise, except absolute beginners, and meets on Tuesday afternoons at 2.00pm, before every other Advanced group meeting.
Recorder, Intermediate
Status
Suspended
Friday am
From
10:00
To
2nd Friday of the month
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Saturday Walks
Status
Current
Saturday am
From
10:00
To
Fortnightly on Saturday
Need to get fitter or just enjoy walking in natural surroundings? Why not join us for a 3-4 mile walk on Wimbledon Common. We are an established group that meets on Saturday mornings (10am outside the Wimbledon Tea Rooms) for a walk of up to an hour and a half, followed by a socially distanced get-together. Our numbers are still limited due to Covid restrictions, but we are more than happy to give new members an opportunity to join in, if spaces are available.
Scrabble
Status
Current
Monday pm
From
14:00
To
Alternate Mondays
This group aims to help you enjoy the game, improve your word-power and amaze your friends with your knowledge of two-letter words. Most members are playing via the Internet Scrabble Club and also meet via Zoom.
South Westerners Walking Group
Status
Current
Tuesday am, Wednesday am, Thursday am
From
To
Every two weeks
Restarting 29th March followin Covid regulations
Walks are 5-7 miles, sometimes a little longer, and take place every two weeks, rotating on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (avoiding the Walking Group 4’s days). We alternate between exploring the open spaces of SW London and Surrey and walking sections of either the Capital Ring or London Loop. All walks are reached by public transport. Group members are encouraged to take a turn to suggest and lead a walk.
Spanish Intermediate
Status
Suspended
From
To
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Note: The group was about to restart in March 2020 with a new leader, just as the first lockdown began.
Speaking and Debating
Status
Current
Thursday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
Alternate Thursdays
Meetings, currently held via Zoom, will include developing our speaking skills and confidence, and debates of various types. The scope for variety is endless. The group will be enjoyed both by those wishing to learn the art of effective speaking and by those who enjoy speaking and debating.
Table Tennis 1
Status
Suspended
Wednesday am
From
09:00
To
11:30
Weekly on Wednesdays
Activities are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group encourages people of all abilities to enjoy Table Tennis and have fun. There may be a possibility of some coaching in due course. These are not drop-in sessions, so please phone/email if you are interested. Charge of £1.00 per session towards room.
Table Tennis 2
Status
Suspended
Friday pm
From
15:00
To
17:00
Fridays (but not first Friday of month)
Activities are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This group encourages people of all abilities to enjoy Table Tennis and have fun. There may be a possibility of some coaching in due course. New members welcome. These are not drop-in sessions, so please phone/email if you are interested. Charge of £1.00 per session towards room.
Tapestry and Embroidery
Status
Suspended
Monday pm
From
14:00
To
16:00
Second and fourth Mondays of the month
Group sessions are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
An individual choice of needlework e.g. crewel or cross-stitch needlepoint in a stimulating and cheerful atmosphere. There is no formal course but group members help each other in solving problems. Regular attendance is expected.
Theatre
Status
Suspended
Friday pm, Irregular
From
15:15
To
Activities are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
The aim is to introduce the members to types of theatre and venues they would not normally choose to book for themselves. Members are encouraged to take a turn to plan, book and co-ordinate an event on various days of the week at mainly evening performances. We meet for tea on a Friday at 3.15pm at the Wimbledon Guild café (lovely cakes!) after 2-3 plays to have a group discussion.
Understanding Shakespeare
Status
Suspended
Friday am
From
10:00
To
Monthly on Fridays
Group meetings are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
In-depth study of Shakespeare plays.
Vine to Wine
Status
Suspended
Monday am
From
10:00
To
Monthly on the first Monday in each month
Activities are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
Group Leader with own vineyard containing 300 vines in Morden, will demonstrate vine growing, cultivation, wine making with appropriate product sampling along the way. Depending on activity in the vineyard or winery additional meetings may be arranged at first Monday meetings.
Visits
Status
Suspended
Ad hoc
From
To
Ad hoc
Visits is not a group and it has no regular members. However, Covid-19 restrictions prevent the organisation of any visits.
Any Merton u3a member may apply for a place on any visit. Planned visits appear on the Events page; choose Visits in the dropdown at the top of the page. To find more information and to reserve a place, go to the Reservations page.
Walking Group 4
Status
Current
Tuesday am, Wednesday am, Thursday am
From
To
Fortnightly
Restarting up in groups of 6 on 8th April
This is a group for people who love to plan and lead walks as well as enjoying walking through the many and varied locations readily accessible from Merton. Group members take it in turns to lead a walk either singly or jointly at last once a year to ensure that an interesting mix of walks features in each quarterly programme. The fortnightly walks rotate between Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, giving members the chance to participate despite their other regular commitments. The group started in October 2014 and has enjoyed a varied programme of walks along the Thames and other rivers and canals, sections of the London Loop and Capital Ring, parks and commons and many other routes. The walks are between 5 and 7 miles long, include a lunch stop and are all reached by public transport.
Watercolour Painting
Status
Suspended
Thursday am, Thursday pm
From
To
Fortnightly on Thursdays
Activities are suspended until Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
This newly formed group meets fortnightly on Thursdays (morning or afternoon as agreed by the group). The group plans to paint from a variety of sources – photos, postcards, book illustrations, still life arrangements or landscape.
Weekenders
Status
Current
Irregular
From
To
Weekly
Restarting in line with Covid restrictions from May 14th
The Weekenders meet on Saturdays and Sundays (and may branch out to weekdays in future too) to participate in outings arranged by its members. We visit places local to the Merton area, eg museums, walks, restaurants, cinemas/theatres. Occasionally if there is something of mutual interest further afield, we include it in the programme. We look for outings that are informative and fun.