Moseley and Kings Heath

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Moseley and Kings Heath u3a Groups

Architecture-Urban Walking     

When Fortnightly Wednesday
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This group meets out and about in the warmer months, but contact is maintained on Zoom in the colder months when the weather is more inclement. There is space in this group for new members

Art Appreciation 1     

When Monthly, 3rd Tuesday am
Normally meets 10:30 to 00:00
Information 

Art Appreciation 2     

When Monthly, 2nd Thursday pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information We meet at the leader's house from 2pm - 4pm on the 2nd Thursday of the month. Each month our focus changes. We could look at an artist, at works of art, at art galleries or talk about an exhibition recently visited. At present we are full, but enquiries are welcome, and members can be put on a waiting list or helped to start a new group.

Art Appreciation 3     

When Monthly, last Tuesday am
Normally meets 10:30 to 00:00
Information Our group discusses art in all its forms, modern and historical, paintings and sculpture. Sometimes we explore the work of a particular Artist, such as Lowrie or discuss an artistic theme, such as landscapes. The group also does not shy away from controversial art, for example The Slave Ship by Turner.

Book Group 1     

When Monthly, second Tuesday am
Normally meets 11:00 to 00:00
Information The group meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 11.00. This group is, unfortunately, full. .

Book Group 2     

When Monthly, last Thursday am
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:00
Information This group meets on the last Thursday of the month at 10.30 in Fletchers bar on York Road; occasionally they might stay for lunch in the Kitchen Garden cafe. Members of the group recommend books. The GL keeps a record of these suggestions and asks at the library in order to get a full set for the group. A range of literature is read and the discussion is always lively - though they do not always agree about whether or not they enjoyed them. This has been a very stable group for many years; sadly there is no room for new members.

Book Group 3     

When 4th Friday of the month
Normally meets 11:00 to 13:00
Information This group meets in each other's homes

Book Group 4     

When Monthly, 3rd Wednesday am
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information We meet at the leader's house from 10am - 12pm on the third Wednesday of the month. We generally read fiction and we do enjoy fiction based on true stories. At present we are full, but enquiries are welcome, and members can be put on a waiting list or helped to start a new group.

Book Group 5     

When Third Friday of the month
Normally meets 14:30 to 16:00
Information This group reads mainly fiction. It reads widely and in different genres, and always in paperback. Members particularly enjoy contemporary fiction including novels in translation; all contribute suggestions for books. The group often reads fiction that has been long- or short-listed or has won major book awards such as the Booker. Discussions are always lively, with all participating, and different views are welcomed. This group is currently full.

Book Group 6     

When Monthly: fourth Friday of the month
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This group now meets face to face in homes. At the moment they have no vacancies.

Book Group 7     

When 1st Friday of the month 2pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information No spaces for new members at present. This group meets in homes. We read a variety of genres, and members discuss, and choose, which books we will read at the beginning of a year.

Bridge 3     

When Fortnightly, 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information This group is for intermediate to experienced Bridge players. There may be spaces for new members who know the game. If you are interested in joining this group please email the group leader.

Choir     

When Choir meets weekly on Mondays
Normally meets 14:15 to 16:00
Information Choir meets during term time only, 2.15-4pm at St Columba's in Moseley. New members are welcome, particularly altos. We are currently taking a break until September. Rehearsals will restart on Monday, 8 September. We ask potential new members to contact us before coming along to a rehearsal. This then allows us to make sure that we have copies of the music ready.

Circle Dancing     

When 2nd and 4th Thursdays 2 to 4pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information We will dance in a circle to delightfully varied music, coming from different countries and times. Some steps will be traditional, some modern. The dances can be fun, joyful, simple, energetic or meditative. Dances will be taught and walked through first. Good for mind, body and soul!! No partners needed! Address is 23A Watford Road, B30 1JB. Car parking on site

Complementary Therapies     

When Monthly, 1st Monday am
Normally meets 11:00 to 12:00
Information This group has a keen interest in Complementary Therapies and occasionally have a speaker. They have run practical sessions such as seated yoga and Tai Chi, as well as discussing nutrition, health and complementary therapies which can help with various medical conditions. They occasionally meet at the Hazelwell Hub.

Creative Writing     

When 1st Tuesesday pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:30
Information The group meets face to face, members using email to distribute their monthly writing submission to all group members four days in advance of the meeting. There is no expectation of previous experience; simply a desire to improve or even to begin creative writing be that fiction or verse. Meetings typically employ both a short exercise exploring some specific aspect of creative writing and feedback on each others submissions for the month to generate discussion. Topics covered have included: show not tell, points of view, scene setting, using your own experiences and the use of visual triggers, to name but a few of the recurring themes. This group is not about teaching how, it is about helping; to explore the possibilities, to improve your writing and sharing the enjoyment of creative writing for its own sake. AIM: To become a better writer! OBJECTIVES: To gain in confidence in writing To learn to feel OK exploring different styles of writing or subjects or genres: sometimes writing outside one’s comfort zone To encourage one another’s writing with positive criticism so everyone progresses To gain insight into one’s writing strengths and weaknesses House Rules: Respect everyone’s varied skill/experience level Listen to each other fairly: one person speaking at a time Treat as confidential anything which is shared in the group No dissemination outside the group (authors’ copyright) Be aware that extraneous reminiscences can be distracting Stick to the agreed word limit Send writing in advance by email if possible; bring copies Feedback constructively Enjoy! Unfortunately this group is currently full but does operate a waiting list. We would be more than happy to share our experiences with anyone looking to establish another group.

Crown Green Bowling     

When Meets weekly on Thursdays
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information This is a Crown Green bowling group which plays all year round (winter bowling is decided annually). Summer sessions (April to September) are held between 10 am to 12 noon. In winter, sessions are between 11am to 1pm. We will help anybody who is new to the game or who wants to return to playing. There are qualified coaches available at these sessions, which are held at the Woodlands Social and Bowling Club, College Road, Moseley. There will be a website soon, as it is currently being worked on. Other bowling times can be available by arrangement. Come along and give it a go, it's fun! Flat soled shoes are mandatory but all other gear can be provided. There is a small charge for each session.

Digital Photography     

When Monthly, 2nd Monday pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information A group learning the art & craft of digital photography by getting out and about with a camera to make pictures on a monthly project theme. Encourages development of observation, imagination, composition skills and an understanding of the technology of photography and computer editing. Our monthly outings include a cafe stop for a chat about pictures circulated in the previous month. This group currently has no vacancies

Discussion of Current Issues     

When Twice a month, 1st and 3rd Friday am
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information This is a strictly non-party-political group that explores current issues together in a friendly and pleasant atmosphere. Members volunteer to introduce the topic under discussion which is decided amongst the group. Discussion of Current issues took a break over the summer but resumed their meetings from Friday 15 September. Please contact the Group Leader if you are interested in finding out more.

French Book Group     

When Second Monday of the month
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This group meets monthly, and operates like a conventional reading group, though members read and discuss a book written in French. Occasionally, the group might watch French films or a French DVD together, and then discuss what they have seen. Their first book will be Le Jeune Homme by Annie Ernaux. There has been significant interest shown in joining this group, and it is currently full.

French Conversation 1     

When Fortnightly, 1st and 3rd Tuesday pm
Normally meets 14:30 to 16:30
Information This group meets in the leader's home

French Improvers Conversation     

When Fortnightly 1st and 3rd Tuesdays pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information We usually meet in person, but do very occasionally use Zoom. We meet at Lorne Court at 2pm on the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the month. The group is currently full and we have a short waiting list.

French Intermediate 2     

When Fortnightly, Monday pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information We are a small, friendly group who meet fortnightly in our own homes to converse in French. We discuss whatever interests us eg our families, holidays, museum or theatre visits or items in the news. There is a range of abilities and levels of confidence among the group, but we help each other and are not afraid to make mistakes! We usually maintain speaking in French for most of the meeting but will change into English when necessary and will look words up on the phone or in the dictionary if we need to. This group is currently open to new members.

Gallery visits 1     

When 1st Wednesday of the month am
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information A small group exploring well known and newer contemporary art, photography and sculpture with visits to galleries in the Midlands. Sometimes the group ventures further afield, travelling to exhibitions in London, Manchester and Liverpool. The group always uses public transport. Members view Art and then enjoy discussing it over coffee or lunch. Venues are always decided democratically. Tasks for organising monthly visits are shared by members

Gallery Visits 2     

When Third week of the month, alternate Wed/Thurs
Normally meets 11:00 to 00:00
Information This is a relatively new group: their first outing was in February 2024 to the IKON Gallery in town. They meet in the third week of the month on alternate Wednesdays and Thursdays. During the winter months, the group tends to stay closer to home, taking public transport where possible. For example, their next (June) visit is to the Art Gallery in Leamington Spa, and most members will take the train. Contact the Group Leader if you wish to join us!

Gardening     

When Monthly, 1st Thursday am.
Information The Gardening Group arranges a monthly programme of talks and visits to places of interest to gardeners - some local, others further afield. Our talks are held in Kings Heath or Moseley. Visits in 2024 included Hill Close Gardens (Warwick), Sezincote, Edgbaston Guinea gardens and Kew Gardens. Members travel independently, though lifts can sometimes be arranged. Sharing of knowledge and experience over a cuppa and cake is encouraged! This year's programme includes Arley Arboretum, Morton Hall and a coach trip to Powys Castle. There are spaces for new members, so for more details and a copy of the programme, please contact the Group Leader

German Advanced Conversation     

When Fortnightly, the 2nd and 4th Thursday am
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information The group discuss, in German, topics of interest to the members, and may use texts from ‘Deutsche Welle’, an online German course, or texts from 'Der Spiegel’, a German magazine. Occasionally, members of the group bring their own resources. Most of the group are competent German speakers and can cope with topics/texts beyond A-level. If there is a need or a wish, grammatical exercises can be included. The leader will usually set 'homework' which people are free to complete or not. The group has resumed face to face meetings. It is, unfortunately, full at the current time.

German Next Steps     

When 1st and 3rd Thursdays 2.30-4pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 15:30
Information This group's general level of ability is around 'O' level standard. The focus is on speaking German, either having prepared something in advance on a theme, or there might be a general conversation which covers a wide range of topics. At the current time the group is full.

Greener Gardening     

When Monthly, last Wednesday of the month
Normally meets 14:00 to 15:30
Information Also meets out and about.This is a group that will focus on hands on organic gardening, with an emphasis on growing fruit and vegetables as well as flowers. It includes sharing experiences and also some visits to gardens and allotments that demonstrate these principles. We will be keen to encourage wildlife in gardens and maintain a healthy balance with the natural environment. We will have occasional speakers with experience of this kind of gardening.

History - General     

When Monthly, 3rd Thursday pm
Normally meets 13:30 to 15:30
Information The history group meets on the third Thursday of every month at 1.05 pm at the Friends’ Meeting House in Kings Heath. We currently have over 30 members, but as we all enjoy time away as well usually about 18 - 20 people come to a meeting and we will happily welcome more to the group. We ask members to pay Group Meeting Costs (GMCs) to cover room hire and refreshments. Each December the group agrees theme/s for the following year. Although we work to a general theme, we try to make each session stand-alone so if someone has missed a session there’s not the problem of catching up in future sessions. Various members contribute to presenting a topic, but none are obliged to do so, it is entirely voluntary. Some use PowerPoint, some read from a script – we’re happy with whatever people feel comfortable with! In 2025 we are looking at the period 1820 to 1870, a time of significant change associated with industrial expansion, electoral and social changes in Britain, and significant events in other countries. We can't cover every aspect of any topic so members present on something which has fired their imagination.

History - Local     

When Third Friday of the month
Information Meeting locations as arranged.

Italian Conversation 1     

When Fortnightly, 1st Monday am and 3rd Tuesday
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:30
Information We meet in the mornings of the first Monday and the third Tuesday of each month, taking it in turns to host in our homes. Group members have varying levels of experience in speaking Italian, some have done more formal learning in the past, others have dipped into Duolingo – what we have in common is an interest In Italy, some having relatives living there, others simply enjoying the scenery, art and food of the country. We may just chat, or we may listen to an audio or watch a programme in Italian. Sessions are relaxing and sociable, allowing us to get to know each other better and develop friendships.

Italian Conversation 2     

When Fortnightly, 1st and 3rd Tuesday am
Normally meets 10:00 to 11:30
Information Italian Conversation 2 runs on a shared, democratic basis, which works very well. After covid restrictions were relaxed, the group moved to the Kitchen Garden Cafe, feeling safe in a public space. We regret that this group is currently full, but they would be very willing to help others set up their own group

Italian culture     

When 2nd Wednesday of the month
Information Group discussing all and any aspects of Italian culture. Meetings mainly in members homes but also out and about

Jazz Appreciation 1     

When Last Monday pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This group meets monthly, usually at the Leader's home, listening to, and discussing, a wide range of jazz. They also go to gigs and have had speakers from the Jazz Studies Department of Birmingham City University. They have also visited the National Jazz Archive there. This group is currently full.

Jazz Appreciation 2     

When First Thursday of the Month
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information A friendly and informal group hoping to broaden our knowledge of jazz through listening to and discussing music

Lunches     

When various, as advised
Information The lunch group is a social activity to which over 100 members are signed up and typically 40 – 45 people join a lunch. We have 3 lunches a year at the College of Food in the City Centre where a three course lunch currently costs £20.00 plus drinks and service (we expect costs to rise in the coming year). The food is to a high standard and members have enjoyed these lunches greatly. We may go to another resturant at least once a year. Each lunch has to be fully funded by members who have signed up for the event. Some venues require a deposit to be paid in advance, which is done through the group leader, and many charge the full cost of the meal if there is a late cancellation. In these circumstances if a member who has booked a meal is unable to come for any reason, they will have to meet the full cost. If you wish to be informed of future lunches, please contact Carey.

Mah Jong     

When Monthly - second Wednesday
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Ten persons have expressed an interest and is sufficient to run two games simultaneously. If you might be interested in joining please contact the Group Leader to check availability of space.

Painting-Drawing     

When Fortnightly, 1st and 3rd Tuesday pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This group resumed meetings in January 2023. They meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month, from 2pm to 4pm, at the Friends Meeting House in Kings Heath. Although we are full at the moment, you are welcome to contact us to be put on the waiting list.

Patchwork -Crafts     

When Monthly, last Thursday
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This was originally set up as a patchwork group, but is now far more flexible. Members bring their own projects to work on. Some may be interested in sewing, others bring knitting or crochet, or whichever crafts they might be pursuing at the time. This is a friendly and accessible group: come and join us!

Plays and Poetry     

When Monthly, 1st Friday afternoon.
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:30
Information Each session is divided into two, with refreshments half way through. In the first hour or so, we discuss a selection of poems or a single long poem; in the second hour we discuss a play. Poetry and plays are chosen from across the centuries: from Wyatt and Donne to Wordsworth and Stevie Smith; from Shakespeare and Chekhov to Beckett and Timberlake Wertenbaker.

Poetry Appreciation     

When Monthly, the 2nd Friday am
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information We share our enjoyment of poetry by taking it in alternate turns to focus on a theme or a poet. These are submitted to me so I can send a list out for research in readiness. On the day we read our poem and the ensuing discussion focusses on personal response rather than academic Lit.Crit. We socialise with a coffee break half way through. To help cover room hire we pay an AVC.

Rowing     

When Weekly, Mondays am
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information This group is for anyone who would like to row for enjoyment, we welcome both newcomers who would like to learn to row, and anyone who has rowed before and would like to restart. The group is based at Birmingham Rowing Club on Edgbaston Reservoir. Members will have to join BRC for insurance purposes.

Science     

When Twice a month, 2nd and 4th Thursdays pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information We hold meetings on current issues in science and have some presentations by specialists. Occasionally we study a book or view videos. We are happy to welcome new members!

Scrabble     

When Monthly, 2nd and 4th Fridays pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Since the pandemic we have played Scrabble online. We regret that this group is full

Scrabble, face to face     

When Last Thursday of the month
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This is a new group, who play Scrabble face to face. A small group at the moment, new members would be very welcome.Please contact the Group Leader for more details.

Socialist Perspectives     

When Monthly 2nd and 4th Friday pm
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Group members lead discussions on specific topics and on current affairs from a socialist perspective. A limited number of spaces for new members.

Spanish Beginners     

When Thursday mornings
Normally meets 10:00 to 11:00
Information This group meets on Thursday mornings, at 10am, in the café at Kings Heath Park. There are currently vacancies in this group. We are currently revising our grammar by going through the book 'Spanish in 3 Months' - but at a very slow pace. Usually we go through a scripted conversation and finish by watching and listening to a song in Spanish aided by the Spanish and English lyrics.

Spanish Intermediate     

When Fortnightly Tuesdays am
Normally meets 10:00 to 11:30
Information This group meet on alternate Tuesday mornings from 10-11.30am in Fletchers Bar, just behind the Kitchen Garden Cafe in Kings Heath. This is a cohesive group; several members have relatives or properties in Spain which encourages them to keep learning the language. This group currently has spaces.

Talk Film     

When Wednesdays, weekly in term time.
Normally meets 13:00 to 16:00
Information Our film group meets more or less weekly in term time. In 2024 the group resumed meeting on 10th January. After a break for Easter, there were eight sessions, starting on 10th April, with a break for half term and they finished on 5th June. The group will resume their meetings in September. The group watch a film together and then discuss it, looking at its historical and political context, and we also consider its cinematic quality. We have themes for our terms: previous themes have included Hitchcock films, women directors, comedies and European films. Our themes are decided by Alan, who is a retired university lecturer in film studies. He also provides the DVDs which we watch. Please note the change of venue! There is a small charge for attending these sessions, currently set at £2.

Theatre Trips     

When TBC as theatre trips are booked
Information Trips to local theatres to watch a variety of plays, including musicals, are organised. Members of the group can decide which productions they wish to attend. Members are not expected to go on every theatre trip, but once you have confirmed you want to go you will be expected to pay for your ticket. You can however sell your ticket to another member of U3A.

Ukulele for Fun     

When 2nd and last Tuesday 10am to12pm
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information The Ukulele for Fun Group meets twice a month and would welcome new members. If you already play or have an interest in learning the ukulele you may wish to join this group. Many of the group had never played the ukulele before joining us and are now able to play a wide range of songs. It may be possible to borrow a ukulele for the session if you would like to try it. This group is all about having fun, playing and singing together. Please contact the Group Leader if you are interested.

Walking -Nordic Style     

When Weekly, Mondays am
Normally meets 10:00 to 11:00
Information The Nordic Walking Group meets on a weekly basis. Its walkers feel that it's a great way to start the week, as it provides an enhanced workout for the upper body as well as legs. This is a fun social activity which is enjoyed all year round. Any prospective member MUST attend a proper training course in order to learn how to walk correctly. Poles can be borrowed in the first instance. This group is, at the moment, full.

Walking 3 miles     

When Twice a month, 2nd and 4th Monday am
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:00
Information Walks are usually circular, starting and ending in our local area, mostly accessible on bus routes. They are gentle walks, without stiles, and on good paths. We end with a coffee/lunch at a cafe or pub. We have about 15 walks which we repeat. Walks are led by several members with the leader organising emails and so on. We would now welcome new members to our friendly group.

Walking 4-5 miles 1     

When Monthly, 1st Tuesday am
Normally meets 10:15 to 12:30
Information Walks are all circular, some in the countryside with stiles, with some in parks and green spaces which would be mostly in the winter months. A pub lunch is usual at the end of our walks. At the moment this group is, unfortunately, full.

Walking 4-5 miles 2     

When Monthly, 2nd Monday am
Normally meets 10:15 to 00:00
Information Our walks are within an hour of Kings Heath and take place in both rural and urban settings. Whilst we try to avoid too many stiles we do come across a few when walking in the countryside. All group members are expected to organise at least one and more likely two walks each year and we partner up for this. This is a really friendly group which meets occasionally to socialise.

Walking 5-7 miles     

When Weekly on Tuesdays
Normally meets 10:15 to 00:00
Information This group walks weekly on Tuesdays, meeting at the starting point at 10am for a 10.15 start. There is no obligation to lead a walk though most people do so! We hope that everyone who feels able to will do this. There is no fixed distance limit to travel to the start of a walk and, although it is usually less, an hour's travel time would be the maximum. Car sharing is encouraged. During the walk, the group will have a stop for a drink and snack. If you are interested in joining this group, more information is available to anyone who contacts the Group Leader, Julia Frances. There are currently two vacancies in this group.

Walking 8-10 miles     

When 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month 10am
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information We meet in a variety of places, largely North Worcestershire, Warwickshire Broadway & surrounding areas, but sometimes further afield. We cover a variety of terrain including public footpaths, disused railway lines, farmland, pasture, canal & river paths etc. We walk over hills and on the flat and in all weathers. If you are a keen walker over this distance, please come and join us. We encourage car sharing and are a friendly group.

Would-be Writers     

When 3rd Wednesday of the month
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:30
Information A group for would-be writers in any genre, with or without experience. The aim of the group is for members to offer encouragement and, if requested, positive criticism, to work brought to meetings by members. This group has recommenced face to face meetings, after the covid epidemic, at The Shires on the Wake Green Road, which is a great venue!