Welcome to The Braintree Area u3a, which is part of the u3a movement of locally-run interest groups that provide opportunities for those no longer in full-time employment to come together and develop new interests, make new friends and have fun. 

Members explore new ideas, skills and activities together. Braintree Area u3a has more that 300 members and many interest and activity groups to get involved with, together with a programme of outings to shows, concerts and places of historical or general interest. A General Meeting for all members is held once a month. 

General monthly meetings are usually held from 2.00pm to 4.00pm on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at The Institute (formerly known as the Bocking Arts Centre), unless otherwise stated. 

This is for members only but non-members are welcome to attend (unless otherwise stated) on two occasions. They are then asked to become members if they wish to continue attending the meetings. Please sign the guest book that is just inside the door on the right as you come in. Doors open at 1.30 so please arrive in time to meet friends and find a seat before the announcements start at 2.00pm. The speaker usually starts at about 2.15pm.

Activities and Interest Groups.

For those of you who are new to the u3a, activity and interest groups form a major part of how the u3a is run and provide a great way of meeting like-minded people with shared interests. They can provide a social way of taking part in activities, updating skills, learning new subjects or hobbies and meeting people with similar interests. 

Groups are run by the members for the members, each with a member who is the group contact.  Groups are often held in members' homes or held in other types of venues to suit their needs. 

At present we have more than 25 groups running so if you are interested in joining any of the groups please click on Groups for further information.

There is also a programme of outings to shows, concerts and places of historical or general interest.