Call us today at
1-519-205-1933
Ask about our
Family Plans
Q. How old does my child have to be to start in Karate or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes?
A. Our programs are designed for ages 6 and up but we have had success with 5 year olds who have progressed well and some who are still training as adults today
Q. When is the best time to begin classes? do you have a specific start date for new students?
A. The best time to start is right now! Our class times might change throughout the year with demand, but we run classes all through the year. New students are always welcome!
Q. What is needed for a new student to begin?
A. 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 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. loose fitting clothes are recommended.
Q. Do I have to purchase my uniform/gear from the SKIL dojo store?
A. To ensure the quality of products we prefer that you purchase gear through our store unless previously discussed with the head instructor. We aim to stock quality products that will last a long time, so that you aren't buying new equipment every year because it was deemed "unfit for use in the dojo." Furthermore, the head instructor, as stated in the dojo rules, reserves the right to refuse someone entry/participation due to a lack of cleanliness in the uniform. Appointments are available to discuss, in detail, the dojo rules further.
Q. Can I leave my child while classes are in progress?
A. 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.
Q. Can I send my child to walk to and from the SKIL dojo?
A. No. All Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian when being dropped off or picked up up at the door/Lobby. Students are not allowed to just leave because they see their parents. Concerns are addressed during introduction class or can be addressed in a scheduled appointment.
Q. Do we have to commit to an agreement for a year?
A. Yes. We have structured our curriculum for 2 classes a week minimum over the course of a year. The main reason for this is that we find a that students really start to show some firm understanding and progression at the 8-12 month point.
Additionally, when students don't attend the minimum of twice per week they fall behind students who started at a similar time and attend two times or more per week. This delayed progression can cause frustration and a high percentage of these students will end up quitting.
Q. Do you offer a trial membership that's not a full year?
A. Yes, for new students we offer a introduction to Martial Arts. This is a two week free of charge intro course that will give you an understanding of what it is that we do here. During that two week period you may attend Karate, Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, or both to see if you prefer one over the other. Appointments are available to discuss further details
Q. Can I cancel my yearly agreement/ contract
A. 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 administration to find a solution.
Q. What if my child or I miss a class?
A. Most weeks there are 3 classes to attend of each Style/Disciple studied here at the SKIL dojo Strathroy/Watford, so if one is missed other classes can be attended. The option of booking private lessons to make up for lost time is also available.
Q. We will be away for holidays during the summer, do I have to pay for a month if me or my child does not attend?
A. 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 , you agree to pay your fees for the time period that was agreed upon. Payments can be made monthly, Bi-annually, or annually.
Q. Is there a charge for Promotions/Gradings?
A. Yes, grading fees are for the purchase of a new belt once it has been earned. Stripes however, are for the purpose of showing progression, they do not cost any money. Grading fees are posted in the beginners manuals provided in the Membership Section of the website.
Q. Can I or my child train at other dojos/academies?
A. 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 individuals 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.