We will take students from 5 years of age. All newcomers are encouraged to try out and of course each child can be different in terms of attention span, ability, co-ordination and enjoyment in what they are doing. Each new student is given every chance to feel comfortable in the learning environment of martial arts training. Consultation between the instructor, parents and the student will determine the continued involvement in karate participation.

Not immediately. The first lesson is free and newcomers will be encouraged to attend lessons for a reasonable period of time (2 to 4 weeks perhaps) before a decision is made on continuing with lessons or not. If the student makes the decision to continue then we will require that they complete an Application for Membership and become a financial member of the JKA/WF Brighton.

It is not absolutely necessary but contact with the instructor (phone or email) prior to attending would be an advantage as the inquirer can be given a basic insight into the club and also give the instructor a “heads up” that the person will be attending and intends to take part in the class.

You most certainly can and in fact it is encouraged, especially in the case of junior students below 9 to 10 years of age. We encourage parents/family to remain during the lesson so they can see what is expected of the student and can be comfortable with what transpires during the lesson.

Our club has a range of sizes of karate suits (gi) available for purchase in stock. These suits are a basic starting outfit and can be purchased for around $40 which includes a club badge which will be needed to be attached to the left side of the gi at breast level. Again we look at the 2 to 4 week introduction period before it will be encouraged that the student outfit his/herself with a appropriate karate suit.

First time students should wear a lose fitting top (t shirt) and shorts or track pants. Footwear is to be left at the entrance to the training hall (dojo). You should be there at least 5 to 10 minutes before the start of the lesson. Formal bows will commence the lesson, you will be shown your place during this ritual. Most instruction will be communicated in words or phrases in Japanese and will probably be a bit confusing at the start but it will be explained to you what is required and every assistance will be given to you to help you feel comfortable. Every other person in the class including the instructor, has been in this position when they started. There will be no expectations of you in terms of what you will be participating in during the lesson and please DO NOT expect too much of yourself the first time.