How often do you run the courses and where are they?
We normally run one or two courses throughout the year, usually in the spring and / or autumn. They are held either outdoors at the Fakenham Racecourse, or Indoors at either the Community Centre or Sports and Fitness Centre, Fakenham.
How long do the courses last?
Our courses last for 9 hours over a series of sessions, usually held on Sundays. Timings vary – check our website for most up to date information.
The Induction course is outdoors - what if the weather is poor?
Archery is an outdoor sport and as such we will usually shoot in all but heavy rain.
What clothing should I wear?
Close fitting on the upper body and arms – avoid baggy sleeves and bulky jackets. Hats are ok but hoods are no-go as they interfere with the required technique. For the outside courses you should ensure that clothing, including footwear, is suitably warm and waterproof as necessary! Jackets can be worn between shooting. If you have long hair then best if it is tied back.
How much do the courses cost?
Cost is £50 adults and £25 Juniors (under 18s). This is payable before the first lesson starts and is refundable against the annual club membership fee should you decide to go on and join the club.
What facilities are there (toilets & refreshments)?
Facilities at all venues include toilets, coffee / tea and somewhere to keep warm. The sports centre at the Fakenham Racecourse serves food and bar snacks and a range of drinks.
Do you carry insurance cover?
Yes, we are covered to teach you for up to six lessons as a new archer. This is provided through our affiliation to the sports governing body within the UK. After this, further participation requires club membership to ensure our insurance isn’t invalidated.
Is there a minimum age for children?
No – but a reasonable degree of co-ordination, concentration and strength is required. Contact the course organiser to discuss if in doubt.
Do I need to remain with my child during the lessons?
Yes, you will be expected to remain with them for the duration of the lesson. The club accepts no responsibility beyond its legal requirements.
Do you have a Child and Vulnerable Person Protection Policy?
Yes. We have a Child Protection Officer and all our coaches and committee members are CRB cleared. We are accredited through the Norfolk area child protection committee’s ‘SAFE’ scheme.
Do I need to be physically fit?
Archery is a physical sport and will require a reasonable degree of mobility and strength, although you don’t need to be physically fit. However it can also be suitable for those with a disability – including the blind! Contact the course organiser to discuss if in doubt.
Will there be any physical contact between the coach and the archer?
Yes, a degree of physical contact will be necessary during the tuition.
Do I need to provide any equipment?
No – all equipment is supplied by the club. Please DO NOT purchase any equipment in advance of the course. Your course fee includes equipment hire.
What type of equipment will I be using?
We will be using only lightweight “recurve” bows (the type used in the Olympics). During the course there will be a discussion and demonstration of these and the other types of bow available (Longbow and Compound bow). If you have a specific interest in a particular bow type then discuss with the course coaches.
Are the coaches qualified?
Yes, the course leaders will be qualified to a minimum of Level 1 Coach. Tuition will be supported by experienced club members.
What format does the tuition take?
The course is very much “hands-on”. There are some initial administration/safety issues to cover and we have to get you equipped with a suitable bow etc. This is followed by a demonstration of technique by the coaches. All this takes about 30 minutes of the first lesson only – after that you will be shooting for the remainder of the course. Further tuition/coaching is undertaken as you are shooting.
What happens when I have finished the course?
Assuming you have achieved a minimum standard of ability, you will be presented with a certificate stating that you have completed an archery beginner course with Fakenham Bowmen. Please note that this certificate only signifies your competence and safety as at the time of the course. It should not be viewed as an all time “license to shoot”.
Can I join Fakenham Bowmen after the course?
Yes – subject to your successful completion of the course. Your course fee counts in full towards the membership fee for anyone joining immediately after completing our beginner course.
Are there other clubs I can join if more convenient to me?
Yes – You will find details of other local clubs on the “links page of our website. Please note that if you go to join another club they would almost certainly wish to undertake a separate assessment of your ability – but you should not need to undertake another beginners course.
What if I want to carry on with archery but don’t want to join a club?
We would always recommend that you join a club – it is the only way that you can guarantee shooting in a safe environment. It will also present you with opportunities to improve your ability and give you access to a host of advice on technique and equipment from experienced club members.