In honour of the late Albert Gross (1945-2019) the AKA has set up a small number of bursaries to help students of Aikido who are keen to learn but find the fees difficult.
Despite already being an experienced black-belt in Karate and Judo, Albert Gross took to Aikido with enormous energy and a great sense of fun. Nothing got in the way of him attending whenever he possibly could.
We hope you enjoy your Aikido and want you to practise as much as possible, so the bursaries are particularly aimed at those who are determined to work hard and improve.
The Albert Gross Bursary is open to anyone who wants to practise Aikido in our dojo, whatever their age or level of experience, from beginner to black belt.
What does a bursary offer?
A bursary can be used to cover the following:
- Membership
- Mat fees
- Insurance
- New Aikido kit (if needed)
- Weapons
- Grading examination fees
- Help in travelling to courses outside London
How do I apply?
If you decide you want to stay and practise with our club, but some or all of the costs are currently beyond you, then either speak to the Sensei on the mat, phone (020) 7435 1330 or email to ask for more details.
(Please note that the first lesson is free to everyone, in any case).
Bursaries will normally be offered for a period of time, such as 3 to 6 months, and can be renewed at the end of the bursary period.
There is no limit to how long a bursary can be renewed, but if and when you find you can afford to pay, we ask you to end the bursary so that we can pass it on to someone who now needs it more.
Of course, if your circumstances change again, you can reapply.
(You may be asked to leave a small £20 deposit to cover the purchase of a new martial arts kit, which will be returned to you if decide to leave and return your kit).
A bursary can also be offered to a member who needs extra help with specific items, such as buying equipment, or for travel to an Aikido course outside London. In that case, the payment will probably be a one-off donation. Mat fees include a small donation of £1 a session towards travel bursaries.
All bursary decisions are at the discretion of the Chief Instructor.