Coaching

Our Club has been actively involved in coaching players and prospective players for over twenty years and sessions are usually organised for a Saturday morning throughout the outdoor season, weather and other events permitting. The sessions are open to anyone though there is a small age restriction, see below. You do not have to be a member of any club to participate.

The Club currently has three coaches available based at Benfield although others can be accessed via Northumberland Bowls Coaching Association (NBCA). All coaches are fully insured and enhanced DBS checked for safeguarding and are affiliated to the Bowls Development Alliance (BDA), the national governing body for coaching of bowls in England. Each coach carries a membership card and this is available for inspection if requested.

One of our coaches, Terence Carson, is qualified to Level 3 and has been coaching since 2002, our new member, Allan Thompson, is qualified to level 2 whilst Rosie Bartram, newly qualified in 2023 passed her Level 1 and is considering taking her level 2 qualification when available.

Players and non players alike, of all ages from the age of 12+, can be coached at Benfield and a session lasting two hours costs only £2.00. Here are the finer details.

Frequently Asked QuestionAnswer
What day is it runSaturday
What time does it start and finish10.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Is there a charge£2.00 for two hours with a break for refreshments
Do I need any equipmentBowls are supplied for the duration at no extra cost and different sizes are available
Do I require any specific attireA pair of smooth soled shoes or trainers to change into
Is there recommended attireFor flexibility of the knee a pair of trousers or jeans for the ladies rather than a dress or skirt
Should I bring some refreshmentRefreshments will be available half way through each session
How do I obtain my own bowls or attireThis information can be learned during your coaching session but do ask, even if just curious

If extra coaching is sought then please contact any one of the team below who will be happy to organise such a request.

Contact details for each of our coaching team
Terry Carson (Head Coach)0781 279 4465
Allan Thompson0756 839 3867
Rosie Bartram0790 111 9253

All new bowlers will receive a comprehensive session in groups of no more than 4 people per coach and the first session will cover.

What to expect when you begin
Health & Safety within the confines of the Bowling ClubExplanation of playing equipment
Access to the green in a proper mannerLayout of the rinks
Position of the matFoot placement on the mat
Delivery of the jackand finally... every new bowler will be playing bowls within minutes of stepping onto the green