Beginner Courses
If you are new to Archery you will need to undertake a beginner's course. Anyone from the age of 8 is welcome. Juniors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, this also applies if they subsequently join the club. Our beginner courses are very popular, especially over the summer months, so please book early to avoid missing out.
The course consist of three sessions; these are run over three consecutive Saturday mornings from 9:15 AM until noon with a short tea-break in the middle. All the equipment is provided and the beginner bows are lightweight, but it is a "physical" sport. If you have a disability which you think may affect your shooting, please email us before booking to discuss this.
Our coaches will teach and advise you on a number of topics over the duration of the course, relating to style, bow types, safety and shooting etiquette. The intention is that you will complete the course having had fun and having also acquired some basic skills and competence in the sport. Please read our frequently asked questions for more information.
Clothing should be well fitting tops, not loose or baggy clothing or scarves or anything that could get caught in the Bow. Comfortable flat shoes or trainers (NOT open toed), possibly a hat if you wish. Enough to keep you warm and dry should it rain and for sun protection. Remember this is an outdoor activity, in winter the field can be wet and muddy. We will still hold the course outdoors in light rain, but if the weather is more severe, we will run the course indoors.
Joining the Club
Have you completed a beginners course already? If you have completed one of our beginner courses and would like to take up this very enjoyable sport you will be most welcome to join us at SAC. We also accept new members who can demonstrate that they have completed an Archery GB approved course at another club, or those who are already members of Archery GB and can produce a current membership card.
We strongly advise novice archers not to rush out and buy equipment, however tempting that may be. Hiring equipment is what we'd advise initially, you can then try before you buy. Come and talk to us about what you will need, benefit from the experience of the other club members and you may also find suitable second hand equipment.
We are visited regularly on a Saturday morning by Steve Hallard of Stylist Bows, he is a former world class Archer and will gladly advise on the most suitable equipment for you. He can hire or sell you equipment and there are also a number of archery shops in the area with a wide range of equipment available to suit everybody.