St Buryan is probably on most bellringers bucket lists to visit – being the heaviest ring of 6 in the world! I was fortunate to be able to visit St Buryan on their practice night this week, my thanks to the band for being so welcoming!
There were many ringers in attendance, and the one thing they all had in common – their clear enthusiasm! It was a practice night full of energy, laughter and plenty of encouragement. There were ringers who have mastered handling and are ringing in rounds, those who have progressed onto called changes, and then those stepping onto method ringing: Plain Bob and Reverse Canterbury minimus. We also enjoyed a game or two! Selecting a random number between 1 and 10 (for example 3), then completing 3 whole pulls in rounds before hopefully all standing our bells! A good test of bell control and counting ability.
I had several conversations throughout the evening about what as Acting Education Officer I can be doing to support them. The consensus was one I am hearing regularly now – those who are wanting to take their first steps into “method” ringing are struggling to do so with a steady band of experienced ringers around them.
It is so helpful when learning anything new (bellringing related or not!) to be surrounded by those who have experience and are able to guide and advise. In relation to stepping into method ringing, having a nice strong band of ringers around you can make all the difference to your learning.
To that end, in the planning is an Education Day (it will be a half day!) for Plain Hunting. For this ED the requirements will the ability to confidently ring rounds and call changes with good bell handling; the ability to lead is essential to make rapid progress. You may have started to consider the theory of plain hunting and perhaps had an attempt, or you may be struggling to consolidate your existing plain hunting experience and don’t feel confident. The ED will allow you to either take your first steps into plain hunting, to try plain hunting on different bells, or to feel confident in plain hunting by the end of the day.
My planned format for the ED will be theory, a break (cake!) then practical. Student numbers will be limited therefore it may be useful if you are interested, if you could let me know be emailing education@tdgr.org.uk Further details, including dates and venue to be announced!
As always, if you have any questions, thoughts, or requests for me as the new education officer, please do get in touch. Perhaps there’s a specific education day topic you would like to see covered? Or perhaps assistance on your practice night? Do please let me know, there’s no request too big or too small.
Jemma Hoare
Guild Education Officer (Acting)
Jemma at St Buryan
