Beginners welcome
First Steps Netball
Everyone has to start somewhere, and First Steps is the perfect introduction to netball.
Welcome to First Steps
A brilliant place to begin
Designed for children in Year 2 and Year 3, our fun, engaging programme develops the fundamental skills needed to begin a lifelong love of the game. Through exciting activities, movement-based games and age-appropriate coaching, children build confidence, make new friends and learn the basics of netball in a positive and supportive environment.
Our sessions are skill-based rather than match-based, meaning the emphasis is on learning and developing core netball skills instead of playing full-court matches. This allows every child to build confidence, master the fundamentals and enjoy the game at their own pace before progressing into competitive play.
If your child is currently in Year 1 and you would be interested in a future First Steps programme, we'd love to hear from you, please register your interest.
What your child will learn
Strong foundations, session by session
Rather than focusing on full-court games, we use a variety of engaging drills, small-sided activities and modified games to ensure every child has lots of touches on the ball and plenty of opportunities to develop.
- Catching and throwing techniques
- Footwork and balance
- Movement and agility
- Ball handling and coordination
- Shooting basics
- Teamwork and communication
- Confidence and independence
- Learning the rules of netball through fun, skill-based activities
Why Choose First Steps?
A great place to start
At Shan Netball, we believe young athletes learn best when they enjoy the experience.
Our First Steps programme offers:
- Qualified and experienced coaches.
- Safe, welcoming and inclusive sessions.
- Small group coaching.
- A structured, skill-based programme designed specifically for beginners.
- Progressive learning that prepares children for future match play.
- Opportunities to progress into our Shan Phoenix and Academy pathways.
- A fantastic way to stay active, make friends and build confidence.
Session information
Where and when we play
We currently run First Steps sessions at the following venues.
Bank of England Sports Centre
SW15 5JR · Tuesday
- Year 2 — 5:00–6:00pm
- Year 3 — 6:00–7:00pm
Ashcroft Technology Academy
SW15 2UT · Wednesday
- Year 2 — 5:30–6:30pm
- Year 3 — 6:30–7:30pm
Tolworth Leisure Centre
KT6 7LQ · Thursday
- Year 2 & Year 3 — 5:30–6:15pm
What to bring
- Plenty of enthusiasm!
- A bottle of water
- Comfortable sports clothing
- Trainers suitable for indoor sport
Netballs are provided at every session, so there's no need to bring your own. Our official First Steps Netball training T-shirt can be purchased from our Kit Shop.
Frequently asked questions
Your Shan Netball First Steps questions answered
What is First Steps?
First Steps is Shan Netball's introduction to netball for younger athletes. Sessions focus on building fundamental skills, movement, coordination, confidence and a love of the game.
Do parents stay during the session?
Parents do not observe the first two sessions, allowing athletes and coaches to establish routines and independence. After this, parents may use the designated viewing area where available, provided sessions are watched quietly without coaching or calling instructions from the side.
Should my child bring a netball?
No. Please leave personal netballs at home. All equipment required for the session is provided.
What happens if we are late?
For safety and to minimise disruption, athletes arriving more than five minutes after the session has started may not be permitted to join the session.
What is your refund policy?
We offer a full refund if you notify us in writing that you wish to cancel your Shan Swans booking at least 7 days before your first session begins. For example, if your first session is on the 8th, you must cancel by the 1st to be eligible for a refund.
Refunds will not be issued for cancellations made less than 7 days before the first session begins.
No refunds or extensions will be granted if an athlete is unable to attend any part of their Shan Swans sessions due to suspension, injury or early termination.
Is First Steps a netball team?
No. First Steps is a skills-based development programme rather than a competitive team. The focus is on giving athletes strong foundations before progressing into more advanced training and match play.
What will my child learn?
Athletes will work on catching, passing, footwork, movement, shooting, defending, coordination and basic netball understanding through age-appropriate activities.
What should my child wear?
All athletes are required to wear the official Shan Netball First Steps T-shirt to their sessions, along with comfortable sports clothing and suitable trainers. First Steps T-shirts can be purchased online through our website.
What should my child bring to drink?
Please bring a clearly labelled bottle of water. We ask athletes to bring water rather than fizzy or sugary drinks.
How does my child progress from First Steps?
As athletes develop, our coaches can advise on the most appropriate next step within the Shan Netball pathway based on their age, confidence and stage of development.
How to Join
Joining First Steps couldn't be easier.
Simply click the button below to view our available sessions and book your child's place online.
If you have any questions before booking, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We'd love to welcome your family to Shan Netball!