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beginners' courses

Whether you have never shot a bow before, or you have 'had a go' at archery at an activity day or whilst on holiday, we, at Bracken Company of Archers, welcome anyone 8 years or over who would like to give archery a try with a view to taking up the sport.

Within our club we have experienced, qualified coaches who will guide you from the basics, teaching you the right technique and ensuring you know how to shoot safely and have fun, to full club membership.

2010 course dates

For 2010, the start dates for these courses are:

  • Sunday 11th April FULLY BOOKED
  • Tuesday 1st June FULLY BOOKED
  • Tuesday 27th July FULLY BOOKED

learning to shoot

Our beginners' courses are held weekly on either Sunday afternoons, from 2.30-4.30pm, or Tuesday evenings, from 6.30-8.30pm, during the summer months at our shooting ground on the playing fields of Cranborne Middle School, Damerham Road, Cranborne, BH21 5RP.

Each course consists of five lessons of approximately 2 hours.

It should be noted that, unless due to unforeseeable circumstances, i.e. illness or bad weather, you must ensure that you are available for all five sessions. If you are aware you will miss more than one week due to other commitments, we would request that you choose an alternate start date. Beginners will only be accepted for full Club membership upon completion of their five week course.

how to book

Places are limited to 10 for each course so please book early.

Click here for an application form (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader to view).

For any enquiries, please contact our Coaching Coordinator.

what to wear

When shooting it is important to wear comfortable, but close-fitting clothing, as jumpers and jackets with baggy sleeves will impair your shooting ability. If it's cold, several thin layers are better than one bulky one. Please note that open toed shoes are not to be worn.

juniors

Juniors are welcome to join our beginners' courses providing they are between 8 and 18 and are accompanied by a parent, or approved guardian, at all times. In order to ensure your child's safety, and to allow our coaches to adjust teaching methods / course content accordingly, it is essential that you advise us of any learning / medical conditions they have before they commence the course.

cost

The fee for the full five week course is £35 for seniors (18 and over) and £25 for juniors, including use of all equipment. We ask that this fee be paid in full at the start of the second lesson. If you decide after the first lesson that you do not wish to continue, there will be no charge.

after your course

After completing your beginners' course we will be delighted to welcome you as a member of Bracken Company of Archers (annual membership fee payable). If you are unsure about buying your own equipment we can offer bows for hire or advice to help you purchase your own. We can also offer more advanced coaching to help you improve your technique and progress on to competitions.