Frequently Asked Questions

At Terrier Defence Academy we believe in fundamental techniques; the basics done correctly.  We do not get bogged down with techniques and moves that look good but aren't effective.  We stick to fundamentals that have been proven over time to work.  Everything we teach has been pressure tested, your child won't be taught "secret, deadly" attacks that can't be practised because they are "too dangerous" to use.  

We currently have two classes available, Juniors and Seniors.

Our Junior class is for children aged 5 to 8 and ensures the syllabus reflects this young age group.  There are plenty of games and fun, whilst still learning the principles of Self-Protection and Self-Defence.

Our Senior class is for children aged 8 to 12.  The syllabus in the Senior class reflects their maturity as students, developing those skills learned in the Junior class, whilst preparing them for the transition to Middle and Upper Schools.  

No - Students are welcome to join at any age between 5 and 12.  They will be moved into the appropriate class for their age, but no previous experience is required.  All of our current students are more than happy to help new members fit in and feel comfortable.  All new students, regardless of class type, will be paired with a more experienced member who will help them through their first few lessons. 

We try not to stick to one form of Martial Arts, but rather pick the appropriate techniques for the audience and lesson.  For Striking, techniques are taken from Boxing and Muay Thai; whilst for Grappling, techniques are taken from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, and Catch Wrestling.  These Martial Arts are widely regarded as the most effective and are utilised at the top tiers of Combat Sports.

We charge £8 per session.  We don't have any hidden grading charges like most other gyms, the only cost involved with grading is the purchase of a new T-Shirt to show your child's progress.

Yes - we offer a discount to member's siblings, so the first child pays £8 per session and any subsequent child pays £7

All your child will need for their first lesson is appropriate clothing (PE shorts or trousers and preferably a white t-shirt), a water bottle, and a willingness to try something new.  

Once your child has "got the bug" for training then they will need an Academy T-Shirt and shorts / trousers.  Not only does this make the child feel like part of the team, but it also shows their grade / rank.  A set of boxing gloves will also be required.  Our coaches can offer plenty of advice as to brands and types of equipment.

Yes - The Academy conducts frequent, time based grading for the Juniors class.  Gradings will be held at regular intervals to ensure students are being acknowledged for their hard work and commitment.  

For the Seniors class, the grading moves into a scenario / skill based assessment.  This is more of a formal grading method and is great for letting the students prove that they understand the techniques that have been taught.  There is no need for your child to feel nervous about grading, our coaches will only grade them if they decide they are ready.

The grading system at Terrier Defence Academy reflects the students' commitment and dedication to training.

A key principle of the Academy is to keep things realistic, therefore we do not use traditional belts to show grades; we use different coloured t-shirts.  We believe this gives our students a better level of realism as they will not be wearing martial arts belts outside of the Academy.  All new students (regardless of age or class) begin with a White shirt.  They will then promote through different colours as they progress through the syllabus; from white to yellow to orange to green to blue and finally to red. 

With the exception of bank holidays and Christmas, yes.  There may be an occasion when there won't be a class available due to coaches going on holiday etc., however this will be communicated in plenty of time.  

Yes but children won't spar until they know a basic level of techniques.  When they do spar it will be controlled contact sparring. 

Controlled contact sparring is the most realistic safe way to train skills.  In these drills you employ controlled punches, kicks and grappling techniques on a partner, who is attempting to land the same techniques on you.  Controlled striking targets include body, leg and head.  We believe that the ability to employ a technique without hurting your partner is the cornerstone of developing true martial art skills.  Our coaches have years of experience and are able to de-escalate any "over-excited" sparring.