The questions parents actually ask
Straight answers on safety, money and what to expect. If yours isn't here, message Colin — he'd rather answer it now than have you wonder.
Getting started
How does my child start?+
Send an enquiry with their age and which venue suits. Colin replies with the sessions that have space and invites you to two trial sessions — £10 for both, paid by bank transfer in advance. Bring the signed membership and medical form to the first one.
What age can they start?+
Most sessions are for ages 8–18, all abilities. The Thursday 3:45 pm session at Northgate is for ages 6–11, so that's the entry point for younger children.
Do they need any experience?+
None at all. Every new member is assessed to find their starting point on the British Gymnastics proficiency scheme, so beginners and experienced gymnasts both get work at the right level.
Is there a waiting list?+
Sometimes, for the most popular times. Sessions are capped at ten so we won't squeeze extra children in. Ask and we'll tell you honestly which slots are open now and which have a wait.
Safety
Isn't trampolining dangerous?+
It's a gymnastics discipline, so it's coached like one. We operate within British Gymnastics guidelines on ratios, spotting, end decks and skill progression, which keeps risk as low as reasonably possible. The bed also absorbs up to 80% of the impact when your child lands — less stress on knees and joints than running, while still building leg strength.
Are the coaches checked and qualified?+
Yes. The team is DBS-checked and British Gymnastics qualified for the level they work at, led by a Level 4 Senior Coach. Level 0 and 1 coaches always work under supervision. We have two welfare officers — one per venue — and a published complaints policy. See our coaches.
Can I stay and watch?+
Yes, and you're welcome to for the first few weeks especially. Watch from the side of the hall rather than the trampoline area.
What about medical needs or a disability?+
Tell us on the membership and medical form, and mention it when you enquire. We have a disability coach and a Level 2 Rebound Therapy coach, and proficiency levels 1–5 work well as a training programme for gymnasts with a disability.
Money
What does it cost in total?+
£10 for two trial sessions, then £25 a month by standing order on the 1st. No joining fee and no long contract. Full detail on the pricing page.
Why a monthly standing order rather than paying per session?+
It's a small volunteer-run club — a flat monthly amount keeps admin down and the fee lower. It's calculated across the year, so the months with closures are already accounted for.
Do I have to buy club kit?+
No. Hoodies and t-shirts are subsidised by the club and entirely optional. A t-shirt, shorts or leggings and cotton socks is all that's needed.
What if we can't make a session?+
Let us know so the coach isn't waiting. Sessions can't be carried over or refunded individually, but if something longer-term comes up — injury or illness — talk to Colin.
Practical
Do you run in the school holidays?+
Yes — the club runs 42 weeks a year at Northgate and 40 at Ellesmere Port, not term time only. We close for two weeks in August, two in December and on bank holidays. There are also separate three-day holiday courses at Northgate, booked through Brio Leisure.
Why no jewellery — not even ear studs?+
The bed is a mesh, and jewellery can catch in it while the body is rebounding upwards. If something genuinely can't be removed, message Colin before the session — taped or covered items may be allowed at the lead coach's discretion.
Will they compete?+
Only if they want to. Plenty of members bounce purely for the fun and fitness of it. For those who do want to compete, awards 11–15 build towards competitive standard and we enter regional events.
Can my teenager become a coach?+
From 13 they can take the Level 0 Trampoline Helpers Award, Level 1 from 16 and Level 2 from 17. From 18 they can be paid for coaching. Funding is often available — see become a coach.