Junior Teach-In participants give rave reviews

The young bridge players who attended the 2014 Junior Teach-In, organised by English Bridge Education and Development, nearly all agree that the event was a great success. Despite some debatable umpiring decisions in the annual rounders match, the survey of those who were at the event indicates that the weekend was extremely popular. In fact the most common response by far to the question ‘what would you do differently to make it better?’ was “make it longer”.

Simon Barb, Education & Development Manager, said, "These results show just what a fabulous weekend we offer and reflects very positively not only on the participants but of course also the excellent teaching staff who so generously gave their time for free"

Whether they were a complete beginner, or an international player, most said they would return and also recommend the event to their friends.

Would you like to come again?

Yes: 86%
Maybe: 12%
No: 2%

Would you recommend the JTI to your friends?

Definitely: 75%
Maybe: 23%
No: 2%

All aspects of the weekend scored well, with the quality of the teaching scoring particularly highly.

Average scores out of 10:

Teaching quality: 9.2
Entertainment value: 8.7
Organisation on site: 8.2
Bridge administration: 8.5
Playing conditions: 8.9
Accommodation: 8.6
Food: 8.8
Location: 7.8

We are pleased to say that two-thirds of the respondents could not identify anything which needed improving, but some suggestions came up more than once, and will be considered for next year. These were: more handouts; better signposting on site; a different balance between teaching and competitions; and consideration given to the speed of play in the competitions. The wearing of trilby hats is, however, unlikely to be prohibited in future years.

The Junior Teach-In 2015 will take place at Loughborough University on 28th – 30th August. We hope all those who attended this year will return, and that many more youngsters can be encouraged to attend, whether they are established players, know some of the basics, or wish to try bridge for the first time. “We have plans to make the 2015 event even bigger and better”, said Simon, “with an option of accelerated teaching for older beginners and more activities for accompanying adults - while keeping the event very attractively priced".

For more information on the 2015 event please contact lisa@ebu.co.uk.

We would also welcome any support in the organisation and running of the event – whether it is sponsorship, organisation, promotion, or help over the weekend. Please contact simon@ebedcio.org.uk if you are able to help.