Welcome to
Bolton Bowls Academy
Inspiring the Next Generation Through Bowls.
Bolton Bowls Academy is dedicated to introducing young people to the sport of bowls in a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment. Everyone is welcome — whether you are a complete beginner, want to improve your game, or simply fancy trying something new.
About
Bolton Bowls Academy is a junior-focused coaching programme based in Bolton, offering structured and fun bowling sessions for young people aged 7–17.
Founded in April 2024, the academy was created to provide opportunities for young people to get involved in bowls—something that previously had very little local provision.
What We Do
We run regular coaching sessions for young people, creating a safe and supportive space where they can learn new skills, stay active, and be part of a positive local community. Our sessions in a snapshot:
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DBS checked & insured coaches
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Safe, friendly environment
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Under 12s must attend with an adult
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Refreshments available
Weekly junior coaching sessions
School & community group sessions
Inclusive coaching (SEND-friendly)
Taster sessions and events
Weekly Junior Sessions
We provide fun, welcoming, and inclusive bowls sessions for young people of all abilities. Whether you are completely new to bowls or looking to improve your game, everyone is welcome. All coaches and volunteers are fully insured and DBS checked.
Bolton Bowls Academy is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all young people, including those with additional needs or disabilities (SEND).
Ages 7–17
£2.50 per session
For further information or to book a place:
📞 07802 471699
📧 boltonbowlsacademy@gmail.com
Tuesdays
5:00pm – 6:00pm
📍 Westhoughton Central Park
We would like to say a huge thank you to Daisy Hill Cricket Club for generously allowing Bolton Bowls Academy to use their cricket ground free of charge for our Tuesday training sessions.
Their support enables us to continue providing a safe, welcoming environment where young people can learn, develop their skills, and enjoy bowls each week.
Thursdays
5:00pm – 6:00pm
📍 Bolton Lads & Girls Club
18 Spa Rd, Bolton BL1 4AG, United Kingdom
Saturdays
11:00am – 12:00pm
Venue changes depending on the season.
April – August
📍 Bolton Flat Green Bowling Club
Gorses Road, Bembridge Drive, Darcy Lever, BL2 1PG
September – March
📍 Bolton Lads & Girls Club
18 Spa Road, Bolton, BL1 4AG
Meet Debbie – Founder & Coach
Debbie’s journey into bowls began as a complete beginner before progressing to national finals through dedication, hard work, and a passion for the sport.
Supporting her son through different bowls disciplines inspired Debbie to begin coaching and eventually create Bolton Bowls Academy — a not-for-profit organisation focused on making bowls accessible, affordable, and inclusive for everyone, especially young people and those with additional needs or disabilities (SEND).
Debbie believes bowls offers something different from mainstream sports, creating a welcoming environment where people can build confidence, make friends, and feel part of a community.
With experience supporting individuals with physical and additional needs, Debbie adapts her coaching to suit different abilities, learning styles, and confidence levels.
In her very first year of coaching, Debbie was shortlisted as one of the final three nominees for Bowls England Coach of the Year 2025, recognising the impact she has already made within the sport and local community.
Today, she works with schools, community groups, and local organisations to inspire more people to try bowls and enjoy the many benefits the sport can offer.
Everyone is welcome — whether you are a complete beginner, looking to improve your game, or simply fancy trying something new.
🏆 Shortlisted for Bowls England Coach of the Year 2025 (Top 3)
