Join a Beginners course to learn archery

Introduction to target archery

Elswood run regular beginner courses to get you started in the sport. Completion of a course is a requirements mandated by our governing body, Archery GB, before anyone is eligible to join a club. Our courses are all lead by Archery GB qualifies coaches to Archery GB requirements.

Each course consists of four two hour sessions designed to take you from a complete beginner to shooting safely within a club environment. Elswood provide all equipment and tuition.

Throughout the course, while learning to shoot, you will learn warm up and cool down exercises, how to assemble and take down the bow, scoring and different Rounds.

On completion of a beginner course new archers (and the rest of us) will want to continue to learn and improve. Elswood has dedicated coaching sessions throughout the year.

Join our waiting list

First Session

In the first session we’ll get you started whilst we teach you about shooting safely. By the end you’ll be able to assemble and take-down your bow.

Second Session

Independent shooting with supervision.
Introduction to other bow styles, compound, longbow, bare bow and Asiatic.

Third Session

Zeroing in on the gold.
Mini tournament and presentations.

Final Session

The final session will be shooting on a normal night, with guidance, to give you the Elswood club experience and a chance to meet more club members.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the course?	Three consecutive sessions, plus one club session.
How long is each session?	2 hours
What if I can’t make all the sessions?	You need to attend all the sessions to get a completion certificate. If a session is cancelled due to rain we will add one at then end. Week one is mandatory.
Do I need to book?	Yes, booking is essential.
How do I book?	Via EventBright
Where and when are the course run?	At outdoor at our venue, Highfield St Albans or our indoor venue in Shenley There are directions and course dates on our web site.
How much does it cost?	£85 for all attendees
How do I pay?	Via EventBright
What type of bows will we use?	Recurve. These are the type used in the Olympics. There are photos on our web site.
Can I use another type of bow?	The course is run using club recurve bows, but we have members using compound and longbows.
Do you provide all the equipment?	We provide all archery equipment.
Do I need to bring anything?	You need a wear a close fitting top with sleeves. If it’s sunny remember to bring water and sun cream. You could bring a camp chair for outdoors, but you won’t be sitting much. You need a tight fitting waistband or belt to hang your quiver from. Leggings and tracksuits are NOT suitable. Please bring layers when shooting at the field, the temperature can cool during the evening.
How old do juniors need to be?	We take juniors from about 12 as long as supervised by parent.
What is the maximum age for the course?	There is no maximum, as long as you can use the kit.
Can we join an archery club after completing the course?	You are welcome to join us (subject to committee approval), but your completion certificate will be accepted at any Archery GB club.
What facilities are at each venue?	There are toilets at both venues. Tea & coffee is available indoors.