The u3a movement was started in France as The Faculty of Sciences in Toulouse in 1973, initially known as the University of The Third Age. In the early days, most u3a's were associated with a local university and focused on academic studies. 

The UK u3a was founded in 1982. All locally-run groups that provide a wide range of opportunities to come together to learn for fun. People enjoy exploring new ideas, skills and activities together.

There are 1,039 u3as with over 430,000 members; membership costs on average less than £20 per year and is open to everyone who’s no longer in full-time work.

In the UK, most u3a’s carry out self-learning, and experience sharing, in ways that most meet the needs of members. Consequently, UK u3a’s base most of their work on Groups who come together, usually at least once per month, to do specific activities that can be academic, sporting, recreational or social. Members can, of course, belong to more than one interest group to enjoy varied experiences. More information about Shrewsbury u3a, and how to participate in activities and events can be found around this website.

Eligibility to join u3a is flexible but, as a guideline, it is for people who are 55 years of age and older who are no longer in full time employment. Anyone can belong to more than one u3a but please note that membership of one u3a does not entitle access to another. 

With over 1200 members and 100+ interest groups, we are one of the largest u3a group's outside of London, so relying on technology is essential for us. Please check the website for news and updates regularly.  See our Notices (on the home page) and Events diary. Information about how we manage the interest groups and waiting lists can be found in the Members Handbook.