About Us
Who are we?
Harrow U3A (founded in May 1991) is part of University of the Third Age. We are a registered charity (No. 1009872) and are also affiliated to the Harrow Association of Voluntary Service (H.A.V.S).
Why a “University”?
The word 'University' is used in its original sense of people coming together to share and pursue learning in all its forms. Although called a University, no academic qualifications are required or given
Who teaches?
Those who teach are also those who learn. Men and women from all walks of life have the opportunity to meet like-minded members to expand their knowledge, share interests or acquire new skills. Members with a lifetime of experience, expertise or know-how in professions, occupations or through hobbies are encouraged to form study or interest groups. A mutual interest in learning for fun leads to new friendships.
Who can join?
Virtually all study groups meet during the day, so any adult can join providing they have the available time.
Who runs Harrow U3A?
A Management Committee is elected annually from the membership. Activities are planned and undertaken according to the members' own wishes and resources. Committee members and individual members, who run study group activities, act on a purely voluntary and unpaid basis. It is on their willingness and services that the whole idea of U3A depends.
Who pays?
Harrow U3A receives no direct funding from Central or Local Government. It is financially independent and relies solely on members’ subscriptions.
Where do groups meet?
Either in members’ houses or in hired rooms. At Harrow, we are very fortunate to be able to accommodate all our larger groups and the arts and craft section in the Hatch End Arts Centre. It is only the small groups who meet in members’ homes.
Are there other U3A groups?
The University of the Third Age is a worldwide organisation. In the UK there are now more than 1000 local U3A groups throughout the UK, with a growing total membership, now in excess of 200,000 men and women. Harrow is one of the larger groups and its members have been influential in establishing the Greater London Forum of U3As, now named the London Region of U3As. For more general information regarding the history and present day running of the National Office, visit the Third Age Trust website.
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DBK 08/12/17