The classes listed are trial lessons hosted independently by Defence Lab Kidz Birmingham.
"Reuben, aged 5, has been a member of Defence Lab since May 2015. I wanted a class that would teach Reuben how to defend himself if the need ever came along rather than the traditional martial arts that I believe can be used wrongly amongst children at such an early age.
Twelve months on, Reuben has grown in all round confidence. He is confident in his ability to stick up for himself, he understands what to do in the event a stranger may approach and takes health and fitness seriously. Defence Lab have been instrumental in this change in Reuben. Defence Lab is not ‘just’ about defending yourself it also teaches life skills such as good manners, how you interact with new people and team work to name a few in my mind these are invaluable skills that help prepare you for the rest of your life.
I’d strongly recommend Defence Lab to any parent.
Zara
May 2016"
Reuben
"Lewis thoroughly enjoys the classes and I feel this has developed his confidence on his own and to work as part of a group. I found these groups have also helped my child to learn to listen to others and have more patience.
The lead instructor works amazingly with the students along with the assistant instructor. Their time, motivation and patience with the children are what bring on their confidence, dedication and bring a fun aspect to the classes.
Megan
May 2016"
Lewis
"Defence lab has been a great introduction to exercise for my five year old son. The instructors have a gentle approach to teaching new ideas. The classes are full of energy and ensure a good Saturday morning workout. Well done!
Saadat
May 2016"
Yousuf
"At the start Maxwell was distraught - there was so much change going on, in a new city, new routine - he spent the first lesson in tears.
However, he stuck at it.
What really sets this club apart, is its instructors! Mark (aka Coach) and Gee have the class playing games, teaching spatial awareness, and simple defence techniques that are easily grasped even by the youngest members in the room. They teach discipline and respect, whilst also (and most importantly in Maxwell's case) building confidence by letting the kids act out scenarios in front of the class - and the best part is that they are having so much fun!
6 months after our move to Birmingham with a new baby sister, new house, new school; Maxwell loves his Saturday defence lab class. He's made friends, his confidence has grown and grown!
I want to thank Gee, and Mark in particular, and would highly recommend this class to other parents!
Tim
May 2016"
Maxwell
"Since beginning at Defence Lab, Vaughan has really come out of his shell which has been a joy to see. Prior to this, he was often very shy and withdrawn. Defence Lab has allowed Vaughan to easily assess all kinds of social situations and it has given him the skills to stand up for himself in the playground plus it's considerably improved his confidence. The teachers are all very approachable and friendly and the teaching methods are safe and supportive. Vaughan looks forward to DL each week and takes real pleasure in doing the class and has made some lovely friends. We love what it has done for our son!
Sian
May 2016"
Vaughan
You will receive a booking confirmation by email to the email address provided when making your booking.
This email confirms details of the lesson you have booked, the school’s location, the day and time of your class and other useful information you may need to know before attending your class.
You can either print the email confirmation and bring it with you to your lesson, or you can show the instructor the email on your phone.
Trial lessons vary in length from school to school but details relating to the class you have booked will be outlined in your booking confirmation email, along with the school’s contact details if you’d like to speak to them direct. Details of lessons can also be found on the booking page for each club.
No. The trial lesson is obligation-free and there are no extra charges for this introductory session beyond the trial fee if there is one.
We generally recommend that you wear loose comfortable sports clothing, such as a tracksuit for your taster session. There is no need for specialist martial arts clothing.
The special suits are only generally required if you choose to join a school. Schools often provide free suits when you join. Check with your school first if you have any queries.
Apart from wearing the right clothes, there is nothing else which you have to bring with you on the day. Changing and refreshment facilities vary so we advise that you come prepared in case there are limited facilities available. For example: You may wish to bring a bottle of water.
No. There should be no extra charges for the introductory lesson and there will be no hidden charges.
If you choose to join a school after your trial, there may be a joining fee. Joining and tuition fees vary from school to school. Speak to the instructor if you would like to find out more about their class pricing or membership fees.
You are welcome to bring a friend with you for a trial lesson but your friend will need to have first booked a trial lesson with the school through this website, in order to check there are sufficient spaces available. Your friend may need to pay a trial lesson fee if the lesson has a fee.
If you would like to attend the same class with a friend, we recommend that you make both of your class bookings at the same time.
If you need to cancel your booking, please contact the Instructor, either by telephone or email no less than 24 hours before your scheduled lesson time.
After booking your session through this website, you will receive a confirmation email containing the contact details for your school.
NEST has several hundred members across the UK and so in most cases, there is likely to be a school near you.
If however you are struggling to find a school near you, contact us by using the form on the contact us page. We have many members who do not currently feature on our website who we may be able to put you in touch with.
You have a few choices. You can either choose to book a lesson with another school or you can choose to book a different class type, date or time with the same school or select the enquiry next to the lesson you’d like to attend.
Yes. The purpose of the trial lesson is for you to find a martial art style and a school that you’ll love.
In almost all cases, people choose the school they try first but if for whatever reason you would like to try another school, simply book another lesson through this website in the same way as you did with the first school.
It is the school’s responsibility to ensure that anyone attending a class is adequately insured. If you would like to see evidence of a school’s insurance, ask to speak to the Chief Instructor who will happily make this available for you to see.
Almost all schools require students to become members if they wish to continue lessons after the trial lesson. However, all schools differ and your chosen school may choose to offer an extended introductory period.
When you attend your lesson, ask the instructor what the school’s membership policy is. They will be able to tell you about the different schemes they run, for both adults and children.
Complete the form below.