FAQ's

 

How old does my child have to be to start in Karate or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes?  Our programs are designed for ages 6 and up but we have had success with 5-year old’s who have progressed well and some who are still training as adults today. 

When is the best time to begin classes? Do you have a specific start date for new students? The best time to start is right now! Our class times might change throughout the year with demand, but we run classes all year round. New students are always welcome! 

What is needed for a new student to begin? A signed waiver form to state they are in good all-around health, if the student is under 18, the waiver form must be signed by a parent/ Guardian. In addition, the Parent or guardian must be present at the designated pick-up and drop-off times if the child is under 16. 

Do you offer a trial membership? Yes, we offer new students two weeks of classes free of charge, and a 1-3 month membership at a reduced cost for those who need a bit more time to decide. 

Can I leave my child while classes are in progress? Yes, you are not required to stay through the duration of the classes; however, we have a small lobby with limited seating, so if you would like to stay and watch you can.

Can I send my child to walk to and from the SKIL dojo? No. All Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian when being dropped off or picked up at the door/Lobby.  Students are not allowed to leave because they see their parents down the road. Concerns are addressed during the introduction class or can be addressed in a scheduled appointment.

What if I (or my child) miss a class? Most weeks there are 3 classes to attend for each Style/Disciple studied here at the SKIL dojo, so if one is missed other classes can be attended. The option of booking private lessons to make up for the lost time is also available.

We will be away for holidays during the summer, do I have to pay for a month if I (or my child) do not attend? We understand that holidays will mean you or your child are not in the dojo to train; however, once the contract is signed an agreement has been made, we agree to teach, and you agree to pay your fees for the period that was agreed upon. 

Is there a charge for Promotions/Gradings? Yes, grading fees are for the purchase of a new belt once it has been earned, and the extra time the instructors invest during the grading period.  Stripes, however, are to show progression, they do not cost any money. Grading fees are posted in the beginner’s manuals provided in the Membership Section of the website. 

Can I (or my child) train at other dojos/academies? Students are welcome to visit other Dojos/Academies for a "drop-in" class. However, if you plan on attending both as a direct student it tends to be more of a conflict for the individual’s education (two schools might have contradicting methods on the execution of a technique). If a student is planning on doing this an appointment should be made with the head instructor to discuss in private what commitment each group is looking for. 

Do we have to register as an OJA member and pay their yearly fee? Yes, the Ontario Jiu-Jitsu Association is the insurance provider for the dojo. All students who wish to attend in-person classes or events must register on their own through the OJA and pay the $30 fee to activate their coverage.

Can I cancel my yearly agreement/ contract? No, upon registering the student or parent/guardian will sign a contract stating they are committed to a full year.  Like a private school, a price is agreed upon and paid for one school year, just because a holiday is taken, or the household got the flu does not mean you get a discount for days lost. That being said, extenuating circumstances can be discussed privately with the administration to find a solution. 

Do we have to commit to an agreement for a year? Yes. We have structured our curriculum for 2 classes a week minimum over a year. The main reason for this is that we find those students start to show some firm understanding and progression at the 8–12-month point.

 

 

Additionally, when students don't attend twice per week consistently, their progression can seem delayed when compared to students who attend the recommended minimum number of classes per week(2). This delayed progression can cause frustration, and a high percentage of these students will end up quitting.