When was the last time you did something for the very first time?

Ever wondered what it would be like to fly a glider? Fancy having a go at scuba diving or indoor flying? Or perhaps you'd rather get your hands dirty with pottery, try your hand at printmaking, learn some calligraphy or discover the secrets of bellringing?

That's what Give It A Go is all about.

We've created a group for people who enjoy trying something different - whether it's adventurous, creative, cultural, educational or just plain fun. Our activities will be one-off experiences, so there's always something new to discover. We set the cost of each activity in advance, so you'll know exactly what it will cost . And you'll never have to turn up and wonder who you're going to talk to: our buddy system means you'll have someone to share the experience with. It's a great way to meet people and especially welcoming if you're new to the group.

Got an idea for something we should try? Tell us!

Maybe there's something you've always wanted to do but never got round to. Or perhaps you have a skill or talent that you'd enjoy sharing with others.

There are no experts required and no experience necessary - just a willingness to give it a go.

Try something new. Meet some new people. Make some new memories.

Come and Give It A Go!

PREVIOUS EVENTS ACTIVITY REPORTS

June 2026 - Gliding

Six of our group tried gliding for the first time at Sleighford Airfield, organised by the Staffordshire Gliding Club. The flight was arranged at very short notice, following a cancellation and we hope to run a similar experience next year.

After a safety briefing, we were taken to the airfield where we were strapped into parachutes before climbing into gliders and being launched by a winch into the sky, at more than the speed of an F1 racing car. Once airborne, we enjoyed panoramic views of the countryside, unspoilt by any engine noise, before returning to terra firma. An exhilarating experience all round.

July 2026 - Drypoint Printmaking

A small group gathered at Hopton Hall to learn the art of drypoint printmaking. Firstly we had an introduction into what exactly this is and a run through of the process of intaglio printmaking. Then we set off into the beautiful gardens for inspiration for our designs, reconvening to learn the inking process. We all proceeded to wind our designs through the press and admire our initial attempts. Advice was provided on different mark making, ink application and the effects of differing pressures and we further developed our images. Lifting the plastic matrices to reveal the print was always a moment of trepidation but we all came away with a new skill and some very original prints.

August 2026 - Modern Calligraphy

We had twelve members to delve into the art of calligraphy and with some relaxed tuition everyone was soon using the practice templates to create beautiful flowing letters. We learnt about the dip calligraphy nib, the paper type and the combination of strokes that made each letter. It proved to be a very calming and mindful task as everyone became engrossed in the detail. We then moved on to using a gold ink that had a different flowing consistency but provided stunning reflective results. We all left with our own calligraphy pen and some more practice sheets for us to work on in the future so we can perfect our skills in time for Christmas.

Sept 2026 - Scuba Diving

Four intrepid members joined the BSAC at Ashbourne leisure centre for a try dive session. After battling some initial nerves we were each allocated an individual instructor who calmly educated us about the equipment and what to expect. We entered the pool and were gently introduced to the sensation of breathing below the surface. As we gained confidence we learnt how to use the buoyancy jackets and how to use fins to move through the water. We practiced ascending and descending, swimming and balancing the tank on our backs, communicating under the water and some of us moved into the deeper parts of the pool. We all overcame our trepidation and gained a huge sense of joy and achievement from having our, all be it, brief introduction into diving.

October 2026 - Abseiling

Seven members took a leap of faith (literally) at Millers Dale as we completed our bridge abseils. Our fearless group leader was the first to climb through the safety fence and lean into the harness. With a deep breath and a smile to the camera phones, she stepped backwards and calmly walked the first tentative steps down towards the banks of the River Wye below. Following this successful decent the other members each took it in turns learning to control the free rappel. The support the members gave each other was fantastic and a small group of strangers quickly became friends. Following a second tricker rappel there were smiles and huge sense of achievement all round and much talk of “what’s next”.