Method Toolboxes for teachers

5. Method ringing

Having mastered plain hunt, a student may well want to start ringing methods inside. There is no set method to learn first, but ringers usually start with Plain Bob Doubles or Grandsire Doubles. Some bands ring mostly minor and will choose to take that route, however it is a slightly harder route, as there is no fixed bell (the tenor) to lead off. An alternative approach is to ring minimus methods (changes on four bells) with one or two covers.

Whichever method you introduce them to first, and whichever methods they then progress on to, they will need to develop two skills.

Understanding the theory

They need to understand the theory of whichever method they are ringing. This is a mental skill.  Explain the theory to the student and ask them to consolidate this learning at home. There are apps for mobiles and tablets which can assist with this learning, along with the Method Toolboxes for Ringers resources.

Bell control

They also need to have the necessary bell handling skills to move their bell accurately during the ringing. This is a physical skill and can only be learned in the tower. Simulator practice is also useful to perfect technique.