Choosing an activity for your child means asking a lot of questions, and quite right too. Over the years, parents have asked me just about everything, so I’ve gathered the most common questions here with straight answers. If yours isn’t covered, call or text me on 07821 126 685 and I’ll answer personally.
Getting started
What age can my child start?
Our children’s class is for children aged 5 to 11. From age 12, students join our adults’ class, and no parent needs to train alongside them. If you have an older child, give me a ring first and we’ll talk it through.
When are the classes?
Children’s classes run Monday to Friday, 6:00 pm to 6:55 pm. Adult classes follow from 7:15 pm to 8:15 pm. Friday, 7:05 pm to 8:05 pm is Open Mat (members, no instruction), which some families find handy if a parent wants to train too.
Where are you?
Unit 1C, Eagle Trading Estate, Stourbridge Road, Halesowen B63 3UA. We’re a full-time training centre, not a hired hall, and there’s parking on site.
Does my child need to be sporty?
Not at all. Wing Chun relies on technique and structure rather than size or strength, and every child starts from the beginning.
Is it suitable for girls?
Absolutely. Wing Chun’s own founding legend centres on a woman, and the art was designed so that a smaller person could deal with a larger one. Girls and boys train together in the same class.
During class
Can I watch?
Yes. Our centre has a parents’ viewing area, and you’re welcome to stay for the whole class. Many parents do for the first few weeks.
What does a class involve?
It’s active, structured and fun, from the bow in to the bow out. I’ve described a full session step by step in what happens in a children’s Wing Chun class.
Is there sparring?
Yes. Sparring is part of our children’s class, and it’s age-appropriate, controlled and closely supervised. Children only spar once they have the basics and the self-control for it, partners are matched carefully by age, size and experience, and instructors step in immediately if anything isn’t controlled. The purpose is to help children stay calm, keep their guard and respect their partner, not to “win”.
Will it make my child aggressive?
No. Every class starts and ends with a bow, partners look after each other, and rough or unkind behaviour isn’t tolerated. The message children hear again and again is that walking away is the first and best option.
Safety and support
Who teaches the classes?
Classes are led by me, Sifu Alan Bagley, with our instructor team and junior coaches. I founded the school in 2013, hold a Level 2 Coaches Certificate through the BCCMA and am enhanced DBS checked.
What about safeguarding?
Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is Mike Crump. You can read our safeguarding policies online.
Can you support children with SEN?
Yes. Tell us about your child’s needs before their first class so we can plan together. There’s more in how we support students with additional needs.
What if my child is shy or nervous?
That’s very common, and we never force a child to join in. Watching a class first can help. If confidence is the main reason you’re looking at martial arts, you may find how Wing Chun builds confidence in children useful.
Kit and practicalities
What should my child wear?
Comfortable clothes such as joggers and a T-shirt. No jewellery, long hair tied back, and a bottle of water. No equipment is needed for the first class. Children who join as members wear the kids’ club T-shirt.
How often should my child train?
Two classes a week suits most children, fitting well around school and other activities. Some keen youngsters enjoy more.
Can I train as well?
Yes, and it’s a lovely thing to share. The adult class starts at 7:15 pm (7:05 pm on Fridays), shortly after the children finish, so one journey can cover both. Practising together at home becomes a family habit.
Progress and grading
How does grading work?
Children progress through coloured sashes: white, yellow, orange, green, blue, purple, brown, red and then junior black. Each sash has its own set of skills, and instructors only put children forward when they’re ready. The children’s Wing Chun classes page has more about the programme.
What will my child get out of it?
Every child is different. Coordination, focus and fitness tend to come first; the pride of earning a new sash is a big motivator too.
Trying it out
Can we try before committing?
Yes. You can book a free trial class for your child. It’s the best way to see whether Wing Chun suits them. There’s more about our timetable and membership on our Wing Chun classes in Halesowen page.
Can I ask a question first?
Of course. Call, text or WhatsApp me on 07821 126 685, or email si**@******************co.uk.
Sifu Alan Bagley, Wing Chun Halesowen