The North Wiltshire Badminton Project

The North Wiltshire Badminton Project (NWBP) is orchestrated by Melanie Vickery and serves as a leading Junior Badminton Club in Chippenham, North Wiltshire. NWBP focuses on creating a local badminton system that offers children comprehensive engagement opportunities through one-off events, after-school clubs, and individual coaching sessions.

Members gain access to foundation, club, and advanced development sessions, enabling them to train and compete locally under the NWBP banner. Additionally, players from other clubs are welcome for quality training sessions.

NWBP offers various sessions tailored to different age groups. Foundation sessions cater to children aged five to twelve, enhancing core badminton skills while promoting confidence. Club sessions target secondary school and college students, providing guidance, coaching, and structured games.

For ambitious players, Performance sessions deliver intensive coaching aimed at refining competitive skills. These sessions are open to eager junior players from any club seeking to elevate their game.

Training takes place at multiple convenient locations in Chippenham, including Sheldon Sport Centre, Olympiad Leisure Centre, Melksham Community Campus, and Calne Leisure Centre.

Beyond regular activities, NWBP features updates on its website and recommends Neil Piper at the Stringers Shed for racket re-stringing services. Melanie Vickery, head coach and Chair, has received notable accolades, including the Chippenham Civic Award and the 2020 Yonex Volunteer of the Year by Badminton England.

NWBP has been featured on BBC Radio Wiltshire and collaborates with Vectors, a local partner club, offering one-to-one coaching opportunities.

The leadership team includes Melanie Vickery as Chair and UKCC Qualified Level 3 Head Coach, Rachel Drew as Welfare Officer, and Philip Drew managing finances as Treasurer. The club also engages with primary schools through the Racket Pack package, offering coaching, after-school clubs, and taster days.

NWBP stands out through its inclusive coaching and strong community ties, establishing itself as a premier badminton club in the Chippenham area.