At Melbourne Grappling Academy (MGA), our goal is to help every child enjoy their training, build confidence, and develop skill and character through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We value a supportive community where coaches, parents and students all play a part in creating a safe, structured and positive learning environment.

To help us achieve this, we’ve outlined key guidelines for parents and families. These help our coaches stay focused on delivering high-quality sessions and ensure every child gets the most out of their time on the mats.

1. Arrival, Check-In and Class Start

• Aim to arrive 10–15 minutes before class so your child has time to get ready and settled

• Please check your child in on arrival using the tablet at reception

• Encourage your child to use the toilet before class starts

• Children should wait off the mats until invited on by a coach; this helps us start classes smoothly and safely

2. Parental Supervision

• Parents of younger children who may need help using the toilet should remain on-site during class

• Please collect children promptly at the end of their session

• For safety reasons, children are not permitted to leave the facility without a parent or guardian

• Parents are asked to remain off the mats during class to allow full use of space for coaching and safe movement. You’re welcome to watch from the sidelines and enjoy seeing their progress

3. Uniform and Hygiene

Uniform

• Children should wear a clean gi and belt to every class

• A white belt is required when starting training. Additional belts are provided through our grading system

• Gis and belts can be purchased directly at the academy

Hygiene

• Trim fingernails and toenails regularly to prevent scratches

• No jewellery or watches during class

• Bring a labelled water bottle (no glass bottles)

• No food or drink on the mats, and shoes are never worn on the mats

• If your child is unwell (fever, cough, skin irritation, etc.), it’s best they rest at home and return once fully recovered

• We recommend sliders or slip-on shoes for moving between mats, toilets and reception areas

4. Progression and Grading

Our approach focuses on helping every child enjoy the process of learning and improvement, recognising the qualities that make great teammates and martial artists.

• We celebrate progress through regular grading and stripe assessments throughout the year

• MGA follows the official IBJJF kids quarterly grading system

• Stripes are awarded for consistent training, effort and improvement

• New belts are typically awarded every 12–15 months

• Grading days are scheduled mid-year and end-of-year during regular class times

5. Behaviour and Coaching Environment

• Children are expected to listen respectfully and follow coach instructions

• Please avoid coaching or giving directions from the sidelines, as it can confuse children and interrupt the learning flow

• Children are encouraged to use their words, respect personal space, and save playful wrestling for when it’s part of class activity

• We believe in setting clear boundaries while recognising and rewarding effort and respect

• Coaches address behaviour calmly and fairly, ensuring every child feels supported and included

• We regularly celebrate examples of focus, teamwork and effort through in-class recognition and end-of-term awards

6. Photos and Videos

To respect the privacy and focus of all students, we ask that parents do not film or photograph classes. From time to time, MGA may invite a professional photographer or videographer for promotional purposes. Parents will always be notified beforehand and given the option to opt out.

7. Lost Property

Any items left behind are kept in lost property until the end of each week. If your child has misplaced something, please contact us before Monday and we’ll put it aside for you.

8. Holidays and Closures

We’ll notify parents in advance of any public holidays, closures or timetable changes via email and social media. The timetable on our website and app is always kept up to date, so you can easily check for any changes.

9. Communication and Support

Please let us know if there’s anything that can help us support your child better, including medical conditions, learning preferences or anything that might assist with coaching. If you have questions or concerns, we’re always happy to chat before or after class, or via email. For absences, holidays or general enquiries, please contact us through our website contact form or by email.

At Melbourne Grappling Academy, we’re proud to create an environment where kids can build confidence, discipline and resilience while having fun and feeling part of a community. By following these expectations, you’re helping us ensure every child has a great experience on and off the mats.