Spectator policy

HQ Adaptive classes

HQ Adaptive classes have no spectators. Discuss support needs with ZKS before attending so suitability can be considered. Read the Adaptive Martial Arts guide.

Why regular classes are spectator-free

Keeping the training area for students and instructors helps us:

• maintain student concentration, confidence and independence;
• use the available training space safely;
• protect the privacy and safeguarding needs of everyone in the class;
• allow instructors to manage the lesson without outside coaching, interruptions or distractions.

Please bring the student to the agreed arrival point and be ready to collect them at the stated finish time. Waiting elsewhere in the building does not provide permission to enter or watch the training area.

A child's first trial

The normal expectation is that parents and carers do not watch the lesson. If a child is distressed during their first trial, speak to the instructor. One parent or carer may be allowed to remain temporarily where the instructor considers it appropriate and safe.

This is a settling-in measure rather than a general spectator place. It applies only while support is needed, is subject to space, safety, safeguarding and class control, and the parent or carer may be asked to leave once the child has settled.

If the child is likely to need continuing support or an adjustment, contact ZKS before attending so an appropriate arrangement can be considered.

Individual support arrangements

We recognise that some students may need a parent, carer or support person nearby because of a disability, medical condition, educational need or other individual circumstance. Please tell ZKS before the lesson rather than waiting until the class begins.

Any arrangement will be considered individually and may depend on the student's needs, the activity, safeguarding, venue layout and what can be managed safely without affecting the rest of the class.

Invited events and Open Days

ZKS may specifically invite spectators to Belt Promotion, competitions, demonstrations or other events. Those invitations are exceptions to the normal-class rule and may require advance booking or confirmation.

Event capacity, the number of spectators permitted and venue arrangements vary. Read the event spectator guidance and follow the information issued for the particular event.

Parent Open Days are different again: parents and carers are invited to participate on the mats rather than simply watch. The Open Day instructions will explain who may attend and what to wear.

If you have been invited to watch

1. Check that your place is confirmed where booking is required.
2. Arrive at the time stated in the event information.
3. Remain in the designated spectator area unless invited by an instructor.
4. Follow all instructor, safeguarding and venue instructions.

Need more help?

If this does not answer your question, please send a message through the Members Area so we can check the student account and advise properly.