School is back on the Coffs Coast. Term 4 for NSW public schools runs from Tuesday 13 October to Thursday 17 December 2026, and it’s the best term of the year to start something new. If you’re a parent looking for an after-school activity in Coffs Harbour that builds confidence, keeps kids active and teaches real self-defence, our kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defence classes start this week at Jetty Village – and your child’s first class is free.
Why Term 4 is the perfect time to start kids BJJ
Term 4 is short, busy and full of change. That’s exactly why it works so well for starting martial arts:
- The footy and netball seasons are over. Winter sport has finished, but kids still need somewhere to burn energy after school. BJJ keeps them fit and active through spring and summer. (Read more: Footy season is over – now is the perfect time to improve grappling.)
- Ten weeks to build a habit. Two or three classes a week from now until the end of term is enough for most kids to learn the basics, make friends on the mats and feel real progress.
- Confidence before a big change. Starting Kindergarten, moving up to Year 7 or changing schools in 2027? A term of BJJ helps kids walk into a new playground standing a little taller.
- No break in the holidays. We keep training through the school holidays, so your child doesn’t lose momentum over summer.
- Less screen time. Long, warm afternoons are better spent moving, learning and laughing with other kids than on a device.
Term 4 kids class timetable – Coffs Harbour
Kids classes run every Monday to Thursday afternoon, split by age so children train with kids their own size and level.
| Day | 4:00 pm – Ages 4–7 | 4:30 pm – Ages 8–14 |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Kids BJJ / Self-Defence | Kids MMA Skills & No Gi |
| Tuesday | Kids BJJ / Self-Defence | Kids BJJ |
| Wednesday | Kids BJJ / Self-Defence | Kids BJJ / Self-Defence |
| Thursday | Kids BJJ / Self-Defence | Kids BJJ |
Teens from 14 can join our Teens & Adults classes. See the full Coffs Harbour BJJ timetable.
What kids learn in BJJ and self-defence classes
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best martial arts for kids because it relies on technique, balance and problem-solving rather than size or strength. Smaller kids learn they can stay safe against bigger kids – and bigger kids learn control and responsibility.
Every class is structured, active and fun, with games and drills that teach:
- Self-defence that works – escaping grabs and holds, controlling distance and staying safe without hurting anyone
- Confidence and self-belief – earned through real progress, stripes and belts
- Respect and discipline – listening to coaches and looking after training partners
- Focus and resilience – staying calm and trying again when something is hard
- Fitness and coordination – strength, balance and agility that carry over to every other sport
Anti-bullying skills for Coffs Harbour kids
Bullying doesn’t stop for the last term of the year. Our kids self-defence program teaches children that self-defence is not about fighting – it’s about awareness, confidence and good decisions. Kids learn to recognise unsafe situations, use a strong voice, stay calm under pressure and, if they have to, protect themselves safely. Parents of girls might also like our article on why BJJ and self-defence matter for girls in Coffs Harbour.
Safe, qualified coaching parents can trust
Classes are led by Sensei Bernardo Magalhães, a 5th-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a Physical Education degree and more than 30 years of experience. All Life BJJ coaches hold a current NSW Working With Children Check. Kids learn controlled technique under close supervision, and our kids MMA skills classes have no striking sparring.
How to start this term
- Book a free trial class – fill in the form below or call 0404 544 509.
- Pick a day – any Monday to Thursday afternoon that suits your family.
- Wear comfortable sports clothes – a t-shirt and shorts or track pants. No uniform needed for the first class.
Complete beginners are welcome. Most of our kids started with no martial arts experience at all.
Families from across the Coffs Coast
Life BJJ Coffs Harbour is at Shop G5, Jetty Village Shopping Centre, 361 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 – an easy after-school stop for families from the Jetty, Coffs Harbour, Sawtell, Toormina, Boambee, Korora, Sapphire Beach, Moonee Beach, Bonville and Woolgoolga.
Term 4 kids BJJ – parent FAQs
When does Term 4 start and finish in 2026?
For NSW public school students, Term 4 runs from Tuesday 13 October to Thursday 17 December 2026. Life BJJ kids classes run all term and continue through the summer school holidays.
Is it too late to start kids martial arts in Term 4?
Not at all. Kids can start any week of the year. Starting in Term 4 means your child already knows the basics and feels at home on the mats before the new school year begins.
What age can my child start BJJ in Coffs Harbour?
From 4 years old. Our 4–7 years class runs Monday to Thursday at 4:00 pm and our 8–14 years class runs Monday to Thursday at 4:30 pm.
Is BJJ safe for kids?
Yes. Classes focus on controlled technique with close supervision, there is no striking sparring for kids, and every coach holds a NSW Working With Children Check.
How do I book a free trial class?
Fill in the form on this page or call 0404 544 509, and we’ll help you choose a day that suits your family.
Make Term 4 the term your child finds their confidence. Book your child’s free trial class today.