As an extension to training, intermediate to advanced students have the option to volunteer their time and effort as mentors. Students help to teach those who are their juniors (in age and/or rank).
The Rock Water Martial Arts and Fitness Instructor Training Program (ITP) is essentially a leadership program. As a senior student, you are giving your time and effort to fellow students who are junior to you. You are sharing the knowledge and experience you have acquired through your dedicated training.
The program leads participants through several instructor levels from the instructor’s assistant all the way up to full instructor and beyond. Character traits such as patience, discipline and compassion are developed along with honesty and a good work ethic. Minimum age and rank requirements apply.
Participants in the program are always reminded to keep the following principles in mind:
- Regular attendance is vital. Sensei depends on you to be in class regularly so that your skills can continue to grow. Your juniors will grow to depend on you as well when they see you in class consistently.
- Take your job seriously. Sensei is going to give you tasks during class without directly supervising you; he trusts that you are going to take your responsibility seriously.
- Remember the no. 1 reason for the ITP – to give. You are giving your time and effort while sharing your knowledge and experience generously to those who are your juniors. You are helping to raise happy, healthy and strong Aikido students.