Cumbrian Primary School Offers Unique After-School Club to Pupils
Martial Arts expert, Ben Richardson, who is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a 5th Dan in karate and a black belt in Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do and Kali, has children of his own that attend the school and thought it would be great to offer an after-school club using his expertise. This school year he has run a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu club every Wednesday during term time and now teaches 30% of the school’s pupils, ranging in ages from 4 up to 10, with it proving to be the schools most popular club.
“The children are really engaged in the club and turn up with enthusiasm and excitement. Being able to get the children into a new, highly skilled sport is so rewarding and really builds their physical and mental confidence” said Ben.
Some of the children that attend the class have chosen to invest in a gi which is the training uniform for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu along with a white belt upon which they can earn stripes.
Now in its 3rd term, Ben has just awarded many of the children with their first white stripe which is no easy feat to achieve. In the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, belts can take a long time to earn and there is no strict guideline on when they can be gained, but it is down to the coach to make the decision.
Ellie Hope, aged 5, attends the class and said:
“I think Jiu Jitsu is great because it helps me not be scared of stuff. I do like the moves that are a bit scary though. Most of all I like that my gi has a stiff collar that they can pull during the movements so nobody can hurt me!”
Head Teacher, Sara Royle, said:
” The children of Bassenthwaite School are really enjoying their Jiu Jitsu sessions with Ben. It has given them the confidence to defend themselves in a controlled environment, along with learning self-discipline. It is lovely to see Nursery children working alongside our Year 6s. Ben has created a secure environment in which children feel safe and valued.”
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