Are you new to archery and keen to learn more?
The first step to joining the archery world is to complete an Archery GB-approved Beginners’ Course.
At Great Rissington Archers, we run Beginners’ Courses each year, open to almost all ages and physical abilities.
Attendees will be taught range safety and archery etiquette and will be shooting arrows from almost the beginning of the first session, gradually improving their shooting competence each week. By the end of the course, we would expect all attendees to be shooting confidently, safely, with a good style.
Frequently asked Questions…
How long does the course last?
Each Beginners’ Course is five weeks in duration, held on Wednesday evenings, 6.30 – 8.30pm at our outdoor range in Great Rissington. The next course starts on Wednesday 15 May 2024.
Who can join a Beginners’ Course?
The minimum age is 11 years; we can cater to almost all ages above this. Junior participants* (11 – 17 years old) are welcome subject to our Club terms and conditions.
Participants need to be at least 4’6” (137cm) tall.
Is it possible to take part with a disability?
Archery is a highly accessible sport, with para / disabled archery being the discipline of archery for athletes classified with a physical or visual impairment. Please let us know in the expression of interest form with any information you feel we need to know to help us make any adjustments needed.
More information is available via Archery GB.
Do I need to attend all the sessions?
We find that participants who attend all the sessions benefit the most, developing their skills each week. If you aren’t able to attend at least four of the sessions, you will be unable to complete the course.
Should any session be ‘rained off,’ we shall endeavour to agree on a mutually acceptable date to make up the lost time.
Do I need to have prior experience of archery?
No. The Beginners’ Course aims to provide you with an initial introduction and to take part safely. Many of our past Beginners’ Course attendees have gone on to become members of the club.
Who instructs the course?
Our Beginners’ Courses are run by Great Rissington Club, Archery GB-qualified coaches, and supported by experienced club archers.
How much time will I spend shooting?
Once we’ve covered the range safety aspects, you’ll spend most of the time shooting, with our coaches teaching you the basic techniques.
How much does a Beginners’ Course cost?
The cost is £75 per participant and is payable in advance. This covers the equipment, administration and insurance and is non-refundable two weeks before the course starts.
Do I need to purchase any equipment?
No. We’ll provide you with all the necessary equipment on the first session that you’ll use for the full duration of the course.
What do I need to wear?
As the course is delivered outdoors, please come warmly dressed. We ask that you don’t wear baggy or loose clothing, as these can hinder your shooting. We recommend wearing two or three thin layers that are a close fit. Consider wearing boots and thick socks because the field may be cold and wet. You will be asked to remove jewellery that may impede shooting.
What happens after I’ve completed the course?
You’ll receive an Archery GB Beginners’ Course certificate, which is a requirement to join an Archery GB Club. Should you wish to join Great Rissington Archers, there is an option, subject to availability, to hire your kit, giving you the opportunity to try the sport longer term before committing to purchasing your own equipment.
How do I apply to join a Beginners’ Course?
Submit an expression of interest form, and a Club committee member will send you an application form and payment details. Payment must be received 14 days from submission of your application form to secure a place.
For more information, you can email us at GRArcheryClub@gmail.com or visit the Archery GB website.
*The number of juniors on a course may be limited depending upon the number and mix of applications received from adults and juniors.