Our programs are designed for ages 5 and up but we have had success with 3 & 4 year old who have progressed well and some who are still training as adults today.

Also our oldest has been 91 to begin their training.

Sending your child to martial arts classes while they're sick is not advisable for several reasons:

1. Health Risk: Exercising while sick can strain the body and prolong recovery, potentially worsening the illness.
2. Contagion: Sick children can spread their illness to other classmates, instructors, and staff, leading to more widespread sickness.
3. Reduced Performance: Illness can impair physical and cognitive function, diminishing the quality of training and increasing the risk of injury.
4. Rest and Recovery: Rest is crucial for the body to fight off illness effectively. Participating in martial arts classes can interfere with this essential healing process.

Overall, prioritizing rest and recovery when your child is sick is essential for their well-being and the health of others in the martial arts community

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!

A signed waiver form to state they are in good 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.

Also after the new student commit to a year membership, the student must also join the Ontario Jiu Jitsu Association. The OJA is addressed a little farther down the FAQ area.

To ensure the quality of products we prefer that you purchase gear through S.K.I.L. dojo 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 as well as the uniform. Appointments are available to discuss, in detail, the dojo rules further.

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.

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 just leave because they see their parents. Concerns are addressed during introduction class or can be addressed in a scheduled appointment.

Yes. We have designed our programs and curriculum to include a minimum of two classes per week over the course of a year. This structure is based on our observation that students typically demonstrate significant understanding and progress between the 8-12 month mark. By choosing to make full or monthly payments, you are legally committing to continue with the classes and payments for the entire scheduled timeline. Please note that we do not offer refunds of any kind. Your commitment allows us to allocate time and funds accordingly.

Yes, for new students we offer introduction to Martial Arts specials that are posted online or in the lobby and can be asked about when you visit S.K.I.L. dojo. These possible Introductions specials usually include an introduction to Karate or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, included is a family tour of the Campus and 1 private class for 15 minutes.

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.

Most weeks there are 3 classes to attend of each Style/Disciple studied here at the SKIL dojo Strathroy, 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.

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. 

The OJA, short for the Ontario Jiu Jitsu Association, serves as the official yearly governing body for one of the main Jiu Jitsu groups in Ontario under the Ontario Government. SKIL dojo has chosen to affiliate with the OJA, which also functions as our insurance group. Membership in the OJA is a requirement for all participants engaging in activities, seminars, and tournaments, as mandated by legislation. Given that a significant portion of our students are under 18 years of age, we are unable to act as guardians for each of them.

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 by Kyoju Once. then if you lose it .00 fee for a replacement copy.

Students are welcome to visit other Dojo/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.

Certainly! Printing off a copy of the manual from the members area is a good idea because Kyoju will add or even write comments in the individual's manual to help with possible problem areas of the student. Having a physical copy allows for easy reference and the ability to highlight important words, sections, making it even easier for students to navigate through any challenges they may encounter.

Inactive Student & Training Gap Policy

Consistent training is essential for skill development, physical conditioning, and maintaining rank integrity. When students step away from regular practice, performance and technical ability naturally decline.

At S.K.I.L. Dojo, the following expectations help ensure fairness and continued growth for all students:

Training Gaps and Skill Retention

• After more than a few weeks without training, students can experience a loss of progression equivalent to approximately four weeks of development.

• If a student is away from training for 12 months or longer, they are considered inactive and will be subject to rank review and possible demotion upon their return.

Maintaining Rank Integrity
Martial arts ranks are earned through effort, practice, and demonstrated ability. Just as in any specialized profession, skills must be maintained to remain valid.
If a person holds a rank but does not train or apply their knowledge, it is reasonable to ensure they can still perform to the standard their rank represents.
After one year away, a returning student’s rank will be placed where S.K.I.L. Dojo Instructors determine appropriate, based on demonstrated skill and readiness.

Communication Matters
We understand that life events may interrupt training. It is important that students or parents communicate any extended absences so we can:

• Support a smooth return to training

• Determine an appropriate transition plan

• Help maintain accountability and continued development

Our goal is always to see students succeed—on the mat and beyond. This policy ensures that each student’s rank continues to reflect true capability, confidence, and readiness.