Course details
The Club runs Introduction to Archery courses twice a year, typically in spring and autumn. The course consists of a number of sessions lasting approximately 12 hours in total.
The courses usually take a maximum of 12 on the beginners and taster sessions (the "Places available” figure, above, is updated as each course fills up - but we may get late cancellations so it’s worth going on a ‘waiting list’ if you'd prefer an earlier course).
We have a number of members who are qualified archery coaches by Archery GB, the national governing body. The course content is predominantly hands-on, with all necessary equipment being provided. Young people aged 11 and above are welcome; however, those under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout the whole course. We also cater for students undertaking the Duke of Edinburgh award.
Archery GB has published a set of 'Codes of Conduct' applicable to Members; Adult Archers; Junior Archers; Coaches and officials; and, Spectators, Parents and Carers. We expect everyone to comply at all times.
We frequently get requests from parents about doing the course either just before or after their son or daughter takes their 1st lesson. Sometimes this is not possible if the class is full (they normally are). It’s certainly worth considering beforehand especially as you can have some friendly rivalry whilst encouraging and helping each other progress.
At the end of the course you will:
Anyone who joins the Club from the course will also receive our written guidance for their first sessions at the Club. Archery GB have published guidance on "newbies next steps" and have also produced a Beginners Guidebook which contains a wealth of information for new archers.
If you join the Club you can hire bow and arrows etc until the next course is due (so usually for up to 6 months). The cost is £1 per week.
Course dates and cost
The courses currently consist of 3 weekly evening sessions indoors followed by 2 outdoor sessions at the field (10-12 hours total).
The Spring 2023 course will be on March 10, 17, 24, 26 and April 2. Places available: 12
The cost is £75 per person; with a £15 discount for anyone under 18 accompanied by a responsible adult who is also undertaking the same course.
If there are no places available and you still wish to join, contact us to have your name(s) on the waiting list.
Course testimonials
What our course attendees have said ...
I really enjoyed the Introductory course. It was very friendly and welcoming and not to mention informative. Xxxx's instruction was superb and helped me enormously.
I really enjoyed every minute. The coaching was excellent: patient, kindly, very attentive in picking up every detail to help me improve. Clear, understandable teaching and feedback in a relaxed atmosphere. Good biscuits. Couldn't fault it. Thank-you.
Everyone who was on the course were amazing. Coaches couldn't be more helpful, really wanting people to better themselves. Very enthusiastic bunch of people.
Taster sessions
Two hour sessions are normally held on a summer Sunday afternoon. The cost is £20/person with a discount of £10 for any young person under the age of 18 if accompanied by an adult who is also taking part in the same session.
The next Taster session will be held in summer 2023:
Places available: 12
The sessions usually take a maximum of 12 (the "Places available” figure, above, is updated as the session fills up - but we may get late cancellations so it’s worth going on a ‘waiting list’ if you'd prefer an earlier session).
If you are interested in details of the taster sessions or would like further information then please contact us.
Additional "Improvers" coaching
We hold regular “Improvers” courses. These are free to all members. There is a maximum number of 8 archers, with preference given to new members.
Whilst predominantly for improving technique we can also assist with simple bow/equipment set up. For technique this may involve video analysis of the archers shooting sequence, preferably before the course, as we can use slow motion and zoom analysis to determine any style or technique issues. We can then give advice where adjustments should be beneficial.
Confirmed dates, so far (at Kenley): 28 Oct 2022 and 31 March 2023.
If you'd like some help with any aspect of your archery you can complete this short 'Coaching requirement' questionnaire - it will be sent to the coaches. Or you can ask any of the coaches (Paul, Dave, Gary) about anything, anytime at the field - they're always happy to help.
In preparation for this course, see the excellent "Improve #1, #2, #3" videos (point 6) on our Archery Performance page. When you discuss your needs with the coaches this will help them assess your application and progress.
Duke of Edinburgh (DoE) award
We welcome students wishing to use archery towards their DoE award. This is our DoE guidance document (pdf, 180kb).
You can contact us for more information.
Buying archery equipment
If you are considering purchasing equipment, you should first read this document (pdf, 3.5Mb) and talk to a coach. However, we strongly recommend that you DO NOT buy a bow until after finishing the course and asking advice from a coach. This is because your upper body strength will develop with practice and matching arrows to bow draw weight is essential to achieve an efficient and effective set up. We can also discuss and advise you on what equipment you may want to consider and how to ensure you get the best for your ability and money. Don't forget that new members can hire bows, arrows, etc from the Club for the 1st 6 months of membership so there's no rush to buy.
You may also be able to find some suitable used equipment from the Club for your initial needs - an inexpensive way to get you started.
When you've bought your bow, arrows, etc., make a date with one of the coaches to check the set up and to get help tuning the equipment to its most efficient level for you.
Our 4 archery coaches
Session coach
Paul Gardner
Paul has been with the Club since 2001 and since 2009 shoots longbow (summer) and recurve (winter).
Qualified as a Level 1 coach in 2017.
Session coach
David Richardson
Dave started archery in 2008 and changed to compound style after 18 months. Dabbles with traditional wooden bows as well.
Qualified as a Level 1 coach in 2013.
Session coach
Gary Lidbetter
Gary started in 2008 and is shooting recurve.
Qualified as a Level 1coach in 2013.
Session coach
Jeff Smalldridge
Jeff started in 2011 and is shooting recurve.
Qualified as a Level 1 coach in 2017
Page updated 26 September 2022