Sensei Training Programme
GKR is a great rarity amongst martial arts clubs because it has a formal instructor training program which all instructors must attend regularly in order to teach their classes. However, being asked to join the program often brings up a dilemma, and I frequently get asked by people whether they should join. I also hear people expressing different opinions about what it means to be on the sensei training program (STP).
Before I address the issues, I’d like to start by saying that for the most part, what candidates bring to the program, determines what they get from it. If they are moaning, cynical, trouble-making, selfish people by nature, they tend to find endless faults, and they’ll always be thinking in terms of what they should be getting, not what they could be giving.
If candidates are pleasant, optimistic, altruistic people with a good attitude towards their own karate, then they are likely to get a lot from the program, and give a lot back in return.
What is the sensei training program?
The sensei training program is the weekly class or classes held by the senior regional instructor in each region. In most regions, this class is open only to senseis, or those hoping to become senseis. Some regional instructors also invite senior graded students; usually brown belt and above; to attend as well.
The class is usually more technical, more physical, and the lessons will be deeper than public classes, and may delve into subjects that public students will not get to cover. In addition to the karate training, there is also an element of the class dedicated to how to teach, and improvement of communication skills.
Getting onto the program
Before a student can attend the sensei training program, they must be invited to attend by their sensei. If they accept the invitation, they will start by attending an assessment class. This is then followed by a 10-12 week training course during which they will learn the basics of the syllabus, student care, the GKR credo, and some basics about class management and communication. At the end of the course, the student will sit a 20 minute, four page exam containing mostly multiple choice questions. If the candidate achieves the required pass mark, he becomes a graduate and is then taken onto the sensei training program.
