Choosing a junior golf club: questions for your first visit

Look for a place your child wants to return to

A junior membership is only useful if your child can enjoy using it. Before comparing prices, think about the practical week: who can take them, when coaching happens, whether they know another child there and what opportunities they will have to play between lessons.

Ask for a visit or an introductory session where available. A conversation with the junior organiser often reveals more than a membership price list. Explain your child's experience honestly, including if they have only tried golf at a range or school.

Seven questions to ask the junior organiser

1. Where does a complete beginner start? Ask about suitable ages, group sizes, equipment to borrow and the next available introductory session.
2. How does a child move from coaching to playing? Look for an understandable route to short-course games, supported rounds or suitable junior competitions.
3. When can juniors use the course and practice areas? Check booking restrictions, supervision arrangements and whether an adult needs to accompany them.
4. What is the full cost? Separate membership, coaching, competition entry, equipment and any adult accompaniment costs. Ask which activities are included.
5. Who helps with rules and etiquette? Ask how beginners learn safety, scoring and what to do when they are unsure during a round.
6. How are children supported? Ask who the welfare contact is, where to read the safeguarding arrangements and how parents raise concerns.
7. What happens outside the main season? Check winter activities, weather cancellations and how families receive updates.

Compare two clubs using an ordinary week

Imagine a school-day coaching session and a weekend round at each club. Include travel, waiting time, food and the needs of other family members. A slightly longer journey might be worthwhile for a welcoming group; an impressive course may be difficult to use if the junior access times do not fit your family.

Write down the answers in three columns: what your child can do now, what they could work towards, and what you still need to confirm. Avoid assuming that “junior membership” means the same package at every club.

Ask your child after the visit

Try specific questions: “Was there someone you enjoyed playing with?”, “Did you know who to ask for help?” and “What would you like to try next time?” A child who feels welcome is more likely to practise than one who feels they must already be good enough.

Do not make a first visit into an audition unless the club has clearly explained that an assessment is part of a particular programme. Ask the organiser what the session is designed to establish and how they support children who need a different starting point.

Find programmes and prepare for the first round

Our UK junior golf directory links to national golf organisations, introductory programmes and junior tours. It is a starting point for enquiries, not a claim that every programme has places available or suits every child.

Once you have found a suitable group, introduce a little rules learning alongside playing. The junior rules guide and etiquette guide give families useful situations to discuss. For competition entries, use the first competition checklist and confirm the event's own arrangements.