Beginners Lessons (Year 1)

The course presented is Stage 1 of the Bridge for All staged learning programme, devised by the English Bridge Union (EBU). It is based on the Standard English Acol system (this is the system used by most bridge players in the UK).

The primary objective of the course is to get you into the position where you will know enough to be able to play and enjoy bridge with almost any other bridge player in the UK.

Generally, each lesson will cover discussion of one or two aspects of bidding, followed by class exercises and the bidding and playing of a series of sample, illustrative hands. We will also discuss the play of the hands by both Declarer and the Defence.

At the end of the Beginners course you will know how and when to open the bidding, how to respond if your partner opens the bidding, and when and how to compete should the opposition open the bidding. You will have learnt how to plan the play of a hand, as Declarer, with some tips on how to maximise your chances of success. You will have learnt how best to defend, in other words how best to try and prevent the opposition from making their contract. You will also have learnt the two most common ‘conventions’ – Stayman and Blackwood.

Don’t worry if you are a complete beginner and are confused with jargon – all will become clear in due course. If you want a preview of what bridge is about you can watch the following short video:

What Bridge is all about

The course comprises 30 lessons. Each lesson lasts two-and-a-half hours. Exact timings depend on holidays (and of course the weather).

There is no charge for the Introductory Block of 5 lessons on Mini-Bridge. Remaining lessons are £8 per lesson. A discounted price of £125 is available if you pay for the remaining 25 lessons up front.

Payment can also be made in the following blocks:

• Block A (29/10/2026 to 17/12/2026) – 8 lessons  = £48
• Block B (07/01/2027 to 25/02/2027) – 8 lessons  = £48
• Block C (04/03/2027 to 06/05/2027) – 9 lessons  = £54

There is a set of Student Notes, published by the EBU, which complement the lessons. An up-front payment of £25 (or £20 if you pay for the whole course) is required to cover the cost of these notes, should you wish to purchase them.