Want to know more about Westerham u3a's interest groups? Then read on.
Scroll down for the form to express interest in joining a group.
Scroll down for the form to express interest in joining a group.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Meetings: The group meets the first Wednesday afternoon of the month at Westerham Hall
The group combines shared learning with technical visits. A technical/science topic is selected by the group and one member researches the topic and prepares a presentation whilst the remainder of the group researches the topic for subsequent discussion. Nobody needs to have specialist knowledge of the topics. Subjects are usually of public interest, like Fracking, GM Crops, Global Warming, Waste Management and Recycling, Imaging Systems for the Medical Application etc thus stimulating lively debate. Field trips are also organised, a Nuclear Power station and a Waste Recycling plant have recently been visited.
Meetings: The group meets the first Wednesday afternoon of the month at Westerham Hall
The group combines shared learning with technical visits. A technical/science topic is selected by the group and one member researches the topic and prepares a presentation whilst the remainder of the group researches the topic for subsequent discussion. Nobody needs to have specialist knowledge of the topics. Subjects are usually of public interest, like Fracking, GM Crops, Global Warming, Waste Management and Recycling, Imaging Systems for the Medical Application etc thus stimulating lively debate. Field trips are also organised, a Nuclear Power station and a Waste Recycling plant have recently been visited.
BASIC SCIENCE CONCEPTS
Meetings: Monday monthly
The sessions will be based around areas such as Forces and Energy, Magnetism, Light, Electricity and other areas of common interest. Where appropriate, we will look at examples of simple technology that complement these concept areas. I hope the sessions will be both fun and informative. Each session will last approximately 90 minutes. If your aim is to be a budding nuclear physicist then these sessions are not for you BUT if you want to have fun finding out about basic science concepts linked to technology then you will be in the right place!
This Group is managed by Edenbridge U3A
Meetings: Monday monthly
The sessions will be based around areas such as Forces and Energy, Magnetism, Light, Electricity and other areas of common interest. Where appropriate, we will look at examples of simple technology that complement these concept areas. I hope the sessions will be both fun and informative. Each session will last approximately 90 minutes. If your aim is to be a budding nuclear physicist then these sessions are not for you BUT if you want to have fun finding out about basic science concepts linked to technology then you will be in the right place!
This Group is managed by Edenbridge U3A
SMALL HOUSES AND GARDENS OF HISTORICAL INTEREST
Meetings: No set day
We don’t have regular meetings but have had several very enjoyable trips out. There is no set day for visits as much depends on our chosen venue and whatever is most convenient for the organiser. We started modestly with a visit to Benjamin Franklin’s House but have become more ambitious as time moved on. To date we have been to many other locations both in London and more locally. We use professional guides where appropriate.
Meetings: No set day
We don’t have regular meetings but have had several very enjoyable trips out. There is no set day for visits as much depends on our chosen venue and whatever is most convenient for the organiser. We started modestly with a visit to Benjamin Franklin’s House but have become more ambitious as time moved on. To date we have been to many other locations both in London and more locally. We use professional guides where appropriate.
SPANISH BEGINNERS
Meetings: Every other Monday morning 10-12pm at Farleycroft, Westerham
Initially, as a group of complete beginners we decided to employ a tutor to give us the rudiments of the language and grammar. Now we are completely self-led using various text books, CDs and easy reader books. Our meetings are very friendly and informal and we now all have a working knowledge of written Spanish and we have even enjoyed Spanish dining as a group! Our major failing is our lack of spoken Spanish, we have no native Spanish speakers in the group and would like to appeal for any Spanish speakers to join us and improve our language skills.
Meetings: Every other Monday morning 10-12pm at Farleycroft, Westerham
Initially, as a group of complete beginners we decided to employ a tutor to give us the rudiments of the language and grammar. Now we are completely self-led using various text books, CDs and easy reader books. Our meetings are very friendly and informal and we now all have a working knowledge of written Spanish and we have even enjoyed Spanish dining as a group! Our major failing is our lack of spoken Spanish, we have no native Spanish speakers in the group and would like to appeal for any Spanish speakers to join us and improve our language skills.
SPANISH CONVERSATION
Meetings: First and third Monday afternoons in members' houses
This is a house group presently of ten members, who are encouraged to try and join in a conversation in Spanish on a pre-chosen subject. We also read articles to increase our vocabulary. We benefit from having the services of a Spanish teacher once a month. We are not fluent in Spanish but we are trying to increase our confidence in speaking, reading and understanding the language.
Meetings: First and third Monday afternoons in members' houses
This is a house group presently of ten members, who are encouraged to try and join in a conversation in Spanish on a pre-chosen subject. We also read articles to increase our vocabulary. We benefit from having the services of a Spanish teacher once a month. We are not fluent in Spanish but we are trying to increase our confidence in speaking, reading and understanding the language.
SUNDAY LUNCH CLUB 1
Meetings: 1st Sunday in the month for lunch at various restaurants
This group was started for people who are on their own and who do not wish to cook a roast dinner; but couples are also welcome. We meet once a month to enjoy Sunday lunch, usually at a local golf club. We have a choice of two or three courses and coffee; there is sometimes a carvery for main course with a buffet for starters and dessert.
Meetings: 1st Sunday in the month for lunch at various restaurants
This group was started for people who are on their own and who do not wish to cook a roast dinner; but couples are also welcome. We meet once a month to enjoy Sunday lunch, usually at a local golf club. We have a choice of two or three courses and coffee; there is sometimes a carvery for main course with a buffet for starters and dessert.
SUNDAY LUNCH CLUB 2
Meetings: Third Sunday of the month for lunch
This group meets, by popular demand, once a month to enjoy Sunday lunch at various restaurants, usually at local golf clubs.
We have a choice of two or three courses and coffee; there is sometimes a buffet for starters and dessert and usually a carvery for main course.
Meetings: Third Sunday of the month for lunch
This group meets, by popular demand, once a month to enjoy Sunday lunch at various restaurants, usually at local golf clubs.
We have a choice of two or three courses and coffee; there is sometimes a buffet for starters and dessert and usually a carvery for main course.
THEATRE & FILM APPRECIATION
Meetings: most shows are in London, Wednesday or Thursday afternoon matinees where possible
Trips are arranged roughly monthly with group discounts and previews enabling ticket prices to be as cost-effective as possible. Details of productions are circulated by email and are offered for a limited period as tickets have to be paid for within a set time. Post-show meals are booked to facilitate discussion about what has been seen.
Meetings: most shows are in London, Wednesday or Thursday afternoon matinees where possible
Trips are arranged roughly monthly with group discounts and previews enabling ticket prices to be as cost-effective as possible. Details of productions are circulated by email and are offered for a limited period as tickets have to be paid for within a set time. Post-show meals are booked to facilitate discussion about what has been seen.
TRAVEL BOOK CLUB
Meetings: 1st Wednesday of the month 10 - 12, every 2 months
Are you an adventurous traveller? Do you enjoy reading books written by those who are? If you are either of these, then do consider joining our group. We take it in turns to host our meetings where we informally discuss the current chosen book along with any issues, observations, opinions or personal experiences members may wish to share. We consider a wide variety of books from which to choose our next good read. YouTube videos, members’ photographs etc enhance our discussions.
Meetings: 1st Wednesday of the month 10 - 12, every 2 months
Are you an adventurous traveller? Do you enjoy reading books written by those who are? If you are either of these, then do consider joining our group. We take it in turns to host our meetings where we informally discuss the current chosen book along with any issues, observations, opinions or personal experiences members may wish to share. We consider a wide variety of books from which to choose our next good read. YouTube videos, members’ photographs etc enhance our discussions.
UKELELE STRUMMERS
Meetings: Every Monday 2.30 - 4.pm at the Westerham Hall.
If you can already play the ukulele or ukulele banjo you might like to join a group of 20 strummers, who have been playing for a couple of years. Come and hear us to see if it is for you. Our sessions are part tuition on a group scale but mostly playing and singing numbers chosen by the group. We are now collating our fifth songbook. We performed around a dozen concerts last year, including several U3A events. Performing is a great incentive to improve. But we all get together to enjoy the music. There is room for individuals to play or sing solos or you can take a back seat to become a good band member.
Meetings: Every Monday 2.30 - 4.pm at the Westerham Hall.
If you can already play the ukulele or ukulele banjo you might like to join a group of 20 strummers, who have been playing for a couple of years. Come and hear us to see if it is for you. Our sessions are part tuition on a group scale but mostly playing and singing numbers chosen by the group. We are now collating our fifth songbook. We performed around a dozen concerts last year, including several U3A events. Performing is a great incentive to improve. But we all get together to enjoy the music. There is room for individuals to play or sing solos or you can take a back seat to become a good band member.
VETERANS TENNIS
Meetings: Chipstead Place Lawn Tennis Club, days and times to be agreed
The idea is to inspire a group of players to get together to play on a regular basis. Ideal for improvers and those with rusty rackets to enjoy exercises, drills and some fun competitive sessions! Not suitable for complete beginners and not professionally coached. Small fee for court and tea.
Meetings: Chipstead Place Lawn Tennis Club, days and times to be agreed
The idea is to inspire a group of players to get together to play on a regular basis. Ideal for improvers and those with rusty rackets to enjoy exercises, drills and some fun competitive sessions! Not suitable for complete beginners and not professionally coached. Small fee for court and tea.
WALKING GROUP
Meetings: Alternate Wednesday mornings 10am start in various locations
Our walks are in the lovely local countryside, usually 4-5 miles long and taking about 2 hours. Occasionally we will enjoy longer walks with a stop for lunch. Well behaved dogs are welcome but are the responsibility of the owner at all times. The group currently has 27 members but not all join each walk so companions will vary. Everyone is asked to take a turn to lead a walk.
Meetings: Alternate Wednesday mornings 10am start in various locations
Our walks are in the lovely local countryside, usually 4-5 miles long and taking about 2 hours. Occasionally we will enjoy longer walks with a stop for lunch. Well behaved dogs are welcome but are the responsibility of the owner at all times. The group currently has 27 members but not all join each walk so companions will vary. Everyone is asked to take a turn to lead a walk.
WATERCOLOUR PAINTING
Meetings: Wednesdays 2-3.45pm at St Mark's Church Hall, Main Road, Biggin Hill
The group is organised by the Community Care Art Group for people of all ages and our Westerham U3A members are made very welcome. It meets each week (£3 fee) with pictures being available for inspiration but members are expected to provide their own materials. Tutors attend periodically but it is shared learning and members show interest in each others' work. On occasions field trips to such places as Sevenoaks Reserve and Bewl Water are organised. The group is open to beginners as well as competent artists.
Meetings: Wednesdays 2-3.45pm at St Mark's Church Hall, Main Road, Biggin Hill
The group is organised by the Community Care Art Group for people of all ages and our Westerham U3A members are made very welcome. It meets each week (£3 fee) with pictures being available for inspiration but members are expected to provide their own materials. Tutors attend periodically but it is shared learning and members show interest in each others' work. On occasions field trips to such places as Sevenoaks Reserve and Bewl Water are organised. The group is open to beginners as well as competent artists.
WATERCOLOUR PAINTING
Meetings: 1st Tuesday in the month
A regular meet up to paint and sketch. No previous experience necessary, just interest and ideas for subject matter. Would suggest outings to various venues to paint when the weather is fine and perhaps indoor venues for portraiture, still life, floral arrangements etc. A chance to share experience, suggestions and help each other.
This Group is managed by Edenbridge U3A
Meetings: 1st Tuesday in the month
A regular meet up to paint and sketch. No previous experience necessary, just interest and ideas for subject matter. Would suggest outings to various venues to paint when the weather is fine and perhaps indoor venues for portraiture, still life, floral arrangements etc. A chance to share experience, suggestions and help each other.
This Group is managed by Edenbridge U3A
WINE AND BEER APPRECIATION 1
Meetings: Last Tuesday of each month at 6.45pm (lasts around 1.5 hours) in group members’ houses, usually in Westerham
The Group tastes everyday drinking wines, mainly costing between £6 and £12 a bottle (with the odd treat and the occasional trip out). We try different grape varieties, vintage and non-vintage wines, reds, whites and roses – while travelling around the world in an oenological tour. Group members kindly agree to host sessions, bring nibbles and sometimes volunteer to choose the wines. We sip, we taste, exchange opinions and chat - above all, it is a convivial evening. As Andre Simon said: ‘Wine makes every meal an occasion, every table more elegant, every day more civilized.’
Meetings: Last Tuesday of each month at 6.45pm (lasts around 1.5 hours) in group members’ houses, usually in Westerham
The Group tastes everyday drinking wines, mainly costing between £6 and £12 a bottle (with the odd treat and the occasional trip out). We try different grape varieties, vintage and non-vintage wines, reds, whites and roses – while travelling around the world in an oenological tour. Group members kindly agree to host sessions, bring nibbles and sometimes volunteer to choose the wines. We sip, we taste, exchange opinions and chat - above all, it is a convivial evening. As Andre Simon said: ‘Wine makes every meal an occasion, every table more elegant, every day more civilized.’
WINE AND BEER APPRECIATION 2
Meetings: Variable as held in members' homes. Date & venue for the next meeting is confirmed by the next host
We take it in turns to research various wines from different countries and their wine regions, supermarkets, grape types, methods of production etc., usually three reds and three whites. Scores are recorded between 0–5 are given for bouquet and taste. The wines are tasted with various foods such as cheese, tomatoes and cold meats etc. Estimates are made on the price of the individual bottles of wine. The meetings are fairly lively and are a lot of fun. At the end of the meeting all the score sheets are collected and are written up in a report by the group leader, which is then emailed to the various members. We intend to visit various local vineyards in the fairly near future, also some of the members have visited the Tesco wine fair.
Meetings: Variable as held in members' homes. Date & venue for the next meeting is confirmed by the next host
We take it in turns to research various wines from different countries and their wine regions, supermarkets, grape types, methods of production etc., usually three reds and three whites. Scores are recorded between 0–5 are given for bouquet and taste. The wines are tasted with various foods such as cheese, tomatoes and cold meats etc. Estimates are made on the price of the individual bottles of wine. The meetings are fairly lively and are a lot of fun. At the end of the meeting all the score sheets are collected and are written up in a report by the group leader, which is then emailed to the various members. We intend to visit various local vineyards in the fairly near future, also some of the members have visited the Tesco wine fair.
YOGA
Meetings: Friday afternoons 3-4pm in Westerham Hall
This is a weekly group run by a BSY qualified yoga teacher. We concentrate on basic yoga postures with emphasis on joints, flexibility, balance and relaxation. The only equipment needed is comfortable clothing and a mat.
Meetings: Friday afternoons 3-4pm in Westerham Hall
This is a weekly group run by a BSY qualified yoga teacher. We concentrate on basic yoga postures with emphasis on joints, flexibility, balance and relaxation. The only equipment needed is comfortable clothing and a mat.
YOGA 2
Meetings: Friday afternoons 3-4pm in Westerham Hall
This is a weekly group run by a BSY qualified yoga teacher. We concentrate on basic yoga postures with emphasis on joints, flexibility, balance and relaxation. The only equipment needed is comfortable clothing and a mat.
Meetings: Friday afternoons 3-4pm in Westerham Hall
This is a weekly group run by a BSY qualified yoga teacher. We concentrate on basic yoga postures with emphasis on joints, flexibility, balance and relaxation. The only equipment needed is comfortable clothing and a mat.
Want to find out about the great choice of other interest groups on offer? Click to see groups A-D, E-K, and L-R