Do I need to be physically fit?

Archery is a sport enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. If you have any concerns please contact the Beginners Course Co-ordinator. All information will be treated with respect and confidence.

Can you cater for people with physical or learning difficulties?

This is assessed on an individual basis. Contact the Beginners Course Co-ordinator, who will forward your enquiry to the Head Coach. They will decide on the best way forward and may arrange to meet the individual ahead of the course.

What happens if I miss a session?

We understand that people have active lifestyles. If you cannot make a lesson for any reason, we will endeavour to arrange a catch-up session.

What age do you have to be to do archery?

We normally take children from 8 years of age, however this is at the discretion of the club. For further information please contact the Beginners Course Co-ordinator.

Do I need to remain with my children during the course?

If your child/children are under the age of 18, a responsible adult is required to remain on-site for the duration of each lesson.

Do you have a child and vulnerable person protection policy?

Yes. We comply with the Safeguarding Children and Young People policies and guidelines issued by ArcheryGB. The club has named Safeguarding Officers and all coaches are DBS checked.

Will there be any physical contact between the coach and the archer?

Due to the nature of the sport, there may be a limited amount of physical contact during tuition, for example to show you the correct way to stand or hold the bow.

What clothing should I wear?

Close-fitting clothing that is both comfortable and appropriate for the expected weather conditions. Footwear should be shoes or trainers — no open-toed footwear is permitted for safety reasons. Long hair must be tied back so it doesn’t get caught in the bowstring.

Can I wear jewellery?

Avoid long dangling earrings, bulky necklaces and bangles as these could hamper shooting. The coaches will advise before each lesson begins. Any upper body piercings must be removed prior to shooting — this includes facial but not tongue.

Do I need to provide any equipment?

All equipment for the beginners’ course is provided by the club.

When should I buy my own equipment?

We recommend that new archers continue using club equipment for up to six months. The more you shoot the stronger you will become, and over time your technique will improve — which in turn will influence the equipment you buy. To start, we recommend buying your own quiver, finger tab, arm guard and arrow puller. Coaches are always available to advise on equipment and the best places to buy from.

Can I join Audco Archers?

Once you have completed the beginner’s course you will be provided with a certificate of completion and joining information, including cost. Complete the membership application form and send or bring it back to the Club Secretary.

How do I know if I will like shooting with more experienced club members?

Once you’ve completed your beginner’s course we offer all new archers the opportunity to come along on a club night and shoot with regular members at no extra cost. Try before you buy!

Photography

Audco Archers regularly take photos for publicity purposes. If you would prefer not to have photographs taken of yourself or your children, please inform the Beginners Course Co-ordinator when registering. Please do not take photos of others without their express permission.

Behaviour

Safety rules and behavioural expectations for both archers and supporters will be explained before each course commences. For safety reasons, anyone not complying with these rules will not be permitted to complete the course.

Smoking and vaping

No smoking or vaping is permitted anywhere on site at either our indoor or outdoor facilities.

Data protection

Audco Archers are committed to protecting and respecting your privacy. Personal information will be stored and handled in line with GDPR.