New instructors
Hi Ken,
I don't run a martial arts school full-time per say, but do run a club. We currently have six volunteer instructors. We study Bujinkan Budo, and something that was pressed on me when I was introduced to teaching was the character of the student who wants to teach.
Typically, a student needs to have earned a high kyu rank or a shodan before they are allowed to teach. The obvious reason is to make sure they have enough skill built up in the art to demonstrate the waza properly. But more importantly, I think you need to see how the student's emotional stability is built into their instruction. What I mean by this is that a student can learn the techniques and be very good at them, but are they showing the techniques with a good heart and strong spirit, and not to show anyone else up (show off)?
Equally, once a student begins to teach at our dojo, does their attitude change? Do they see themselves as someone "above" everyone else? This is a chance to watch their characteristics in exactly the type of environment they would have if they had their own dojo.
In my experience, our dojo usually attracts students (who may become teachers) who are good people, and not someone who is always trying to show someone how good they are. By time the student is of a level to begin teaching, we have seen their character for more than two years, and are proud to support them wherever they go. A few of our students have recently started to run their own training groups, and I support them 100%.
One last thing - in the Bujinkan, to officially teach, you must join the Shidoshi-Kai, along with some other requirements. If a student is instructing at our dojo, we consider it a learning experience, and do not require them to join the shidoshi-kai unless they want to. If they choose to open their own dojo or club though, then they must, as the rules of the Bujinkan dictate this.
As far as CPR, first-aid, etc.. - you can't go wrong there. Most of us are EMT's or at least CPR certified. To me, it's kinda like a yin/yang thing - if you are teaching people how to hurt others, you better know how to help them too. This includes medical emergencies.
I am looking forward to what other dojo-cho think about this. Good question!
Take care!
Jeff O.
Last edited by Jeff O; 27th August 2001 at 13:54.
Jeff Ochester
Dayton Bujinkan Dojo