Essential Staff Guidelines for Martial Arts Schools

Safety Protocols

  1. Emphasize Safety and Control: Always stress the importance of safety and control during partner drills.
  2. Recommend Proper Equipment: Advise students on the necessary equipment for their safety and encourage its use.
  3. Teach Within Your Knowledge: Only instruct techniques, basics, or forms that you fully understand to prevent misinformation and injury.

Proper Employee Conduct

  1. Punctuality and Preparedness: Arrive at least 15 minutes early, dressed in the proper uniform, and ready to assist students.
  2. Maintain Composure: Never show frustration or anger in front of students.
  3. Follow Procedures: Adhere to school procedures and the Black Belt Code of Conduct both inside and outside the school.
  4. Avoid Negative Talk: Do not speak poorly about other schools, students, or fellow instructors.
  5. Professional Boundaries: Avoid fraternizing with students or clients outside of the school to maintain professionalism and respect.
  6. Discuss Personal Issues Privately: Feel free to discuss personal issues with senior staff but maintain a positive attitude at work.

Personal and Professional Development

  1. Continual Training: Keep up with your own training and maintain your skills.
  2. Attend Seminars and Meetings: Participate in business training seminars and staff training meetings whenever possible.
  3. Familiarize with Materials: Be well-versed with school training materials and procedure manuals.
  4. Utilize Training Resources: Watch instructor and staff training videos and read industry magazines such as "Martial Arts Professional".
  5. Good Hygiene: Maintain excellent personal hygiene to set a good example.
  6. Be Receptive to Feedback: Welcome feedback on your teaching skills for continuous improvement.
  7. Invest in Personal Development: Read books and listen to tapes or CDs on self-improvement, communication, and professional skills.

Working With Children

  1. Use Simple Terms: Explain techniques using simple language children can understand.
  2. Respectful Communication: Maintain respect and courtesy without talking down to the children.
  3. Pair Students Appropriately: Always assign partners to avoid the exclusion of any student.
  4. Offer Encouragement: Constantly encourage and compliment students.
  5. Keep Classes Dynamic: Avoid lengthy explanations; keep the class active and engaging.
  6. Positive Remarks: Use positive re-framing to keep the class atmosphere upbeat.
  7. Directional Guidance: Use clear directional guidance, avoiding only “left” or “right” without additional context.
  8. Simplify Techniques: Break down techniques into simple steps and gradually build complexity.

Teaching and Communicating Effectively

  1. Use Formal Titles: Ensure everyone uses your formal title, e.g., "Coach Smith" or "Ms. Smith".
  2. Speak with Confidence: Use a loud, confident voice and maintain high energy.
  3. Handle New Students Gently: Treat new students with extra care and patience.
  4. Build Trust and Respect: Show compassion to foster trust and respect.
  5. Engage Students: Move around the room and make eye contact to keep students involved.
  6. Utilize Upper Belts for Assistance: Use advanced students to help maintain order and assist in teaching.
  7. Establish Eye Contact: Make eye contact to make students feel involved and attentive.
  8. Adapt for Advanced Students: Push intermediate and advanced students harder to match their skill level.

By adhering to these guidelines, martial arts school staff can create a safe, respectful, and effective learning environment that fosters growth and development for all students.