How to Choose a Martial Arts Club

✔ or X

• Currently hold, or is it working towards, the Clubmark award or equivalent governing body ‘best practice’ award

• Have an acceptable ratio of coaches to participants

• Provide competition within the club or against other clubs that is appropriate to you / your child’s needs and requirements

• Invest time and training in coaches, staff and volunteers

• Ensure the coaches are trained appropriately to support the needs of the participants

• Ensure the venue and equipment are safe and appropriate for the age group using them

• Have well-run management that communicates effectively with its volunteers, parents and members

• Have a child protection / welfare officer or designated person to deal with emergencies and incidents appropriately

• Have a good reputation within the community

• Have a good, solid ethos that meets your own views and needs (eg on equity, competition, selection of players etc)

• Provide the opportunity for you / your child and family to socialise with other members

• Provide fun and enthusiastic sessions for you / the children and young people participating

• Have participants that you / your child knows or provide a welcoming environment to new members