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Frequently Asked Questions

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I’ve never done archery before, can I still join?


Of course! We welcome all new members, experienced or beginners. We run a course for all new beginners which comprises of 3 or 4 training sessions over 3-4 weeks. Each session lasts between 90 minutes to 2 hours. This course will give each candidate all the basic skills they require and most importantly all the safety training necessary to enjoy archery. A training course of this type is often compulsory if you wish to join an archery club but taking this course with Fenland Archery will enable you to join any club around the country. This course costs £50.00 for adults and £30.00 for juniors (under 18 years of age). If you join the club within 4 weeks of completion of the course then part of the course fee (£10 – seniors, £5 – juniors) will be deducted from the membership fee.

These courses are run several times a year according to demand. Unlike some other clubs, these courses are run by our Archery GB qualified coaches.  Whether you choose to learn archery at our club or not, it is always advisable to ensure that you are being instructed by qualified coaches. Your safety is paramount - ask to see their certificates if necessary. 

Within two months of completion of any beginners’ course, new archers are normally expected to have purchased their own equipment. If you decide to join Fenland Archery Club one of our more experienced archers and coaches will assist you in purchasing your first bow from a reputable archery supplier. Please do not be tempted to buy equipment from the internet.

Fenland Archery Club have a comprehensive range of  training bows of all types which are maintained to ensure suitability for these courses. These bows may typically be used for up to two months after any of the beginners courses are completed free of charge.

I’m not sure if archery is for me, can I try it first?


The club is happy for you to have a go at archery before committing to our course. We will give you a supervised session by arrangement through a committee member. Due to the popularity of these sessions a small nominal fee may be charged. These will nornally be run outdoors at noon on a Saturday. Other 'Have-a-Go' sessions are run throughout the year on an ad-hoc basis. It is important that you attend any session arranged and confirm your attendance 24 hours ahead of the scheduled activity.  You will receive advice on appropriate clothing, footwear, jewellery and piercings etc ahead of your session. .

Groups interested in arranging a 'Have-a-Go' session should contact the club chairman or secretary.


What do I need to do to join?

In the first instance, you should contact the club secretary to discuss a trial session or access to the beginners course. You will be required to provide some personal information when applying to join the club/course and must declare any conditions that may impact upon your ability to safely participate in archery.


How much does the beginners course cost?


£50 for adults & £30 for juniors (under 18 years old)  - see above for more details.

Will I need my own bow to join?


Not at all. Archery equipment is generally specifically tailored to the archer and it is important to understand your archery style before you purchase your first bow. We therefore provide all the equipment you require to get started. Once you’ve completed your beginners course you may continue to utilise the club’s kit for up to 2 months while you decide upon the best bow for your needs. We have recurve, compound and longbows that you can try.

Is there an age restriction when joining the club?


None at all. We accept juniors from 8 years old as long as they are accompanied by an adult at all times and can safely cope with the physical aspects of shooting a bow . There is no upper age limit, however you will require a basic degree of physical fitness. Under no circumstances will unaccompanied juniors (under 18) be permitted to attend club sessions.

What happens once I join the club?


You will be given a temporary membership card (valid for 6 months) while your permanent membership is processed by Archery GB. You will be free to shoot at any of our club sessions and compete at competitions within the UK on presentation of your membership card. Our club coaches are available to help you develop your shooting ability and we encourage you to approach them for any assistance you may require.


Are your coaches CRB cleared?


Yes, all our club coaches and key members of our committee hold enhanced CRB clearance certificates. The club complies with Archery GB policy on the Protection of Children & Vulnerable Adults.


Are you able to assist people with disabilities who have an interest in archery?


Yes, Disability is rarely a barrier to participation in archery. The club makes all reasonable efforts to encourage & assist members with disabilities. Our range at Sir Harry Smiths Community College has disabled access and toilet facilities. Our coaches have received training in assisting individuals with a wide variety of disabilities and have access to specialist advice if required. We encourage you to contact the committee in advance if you wish to discuss any aspect of how a disability may impact on your ability to participate in archery.  

 

How much does it cost to join?

Adult membership is currently £72 per annum including insurance and affiliation fees to the county, regional and national archery bodies. Membership fees renewals are payable during the first week in September.

 

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