Last updated
19-02-09

The concise AOBC Ltd Code of conduct

The AOBC Ltd follow all required codes of conduct as required by our NGB. These can be found at the bottom of the page. The following guidelines offer an overview of what is expected of students attending AOBC classes and workshops.

Punctuality – Please arrive shortly before the start time for training so that the class can start on time. Please refrain from idle chat once the class had started and until the class has been dismissed.

Vulgar language and inappropriate behaviour – Refrain from using expletives while at training and events or behaviour that could bring the AOBC LTD in to disrepute. Failure to comply will result in a verbal warning. Members who continue to abuse this rule will have their membership and licence revoked.

Hygiene – The class is obviously a physical one that can involve close contact with other students. We ask you to be aware of your own personal hygiene. We train in Historical European Martial Arts; this does not mean you need to smell medieval when you arrive for training.

Smoking –None of our training facility's allow smoking anywhere in the grounds. AOBC members or those attending taster sessions, workshops etc are required to extinguish cigarettes prior to entering. Do not re-light until you are off the premises. Thank you.

When at events involving the AOBC please be respectful of where you are. If members are attending a period event promoting TE-MA and/or English Country Backswording do not spoil the atmosphere of the event by smoking in front of the public. Be discreet.

The AOBC is a martial arts club; we therefore promote healthy living and regular exercise. Smoking aids in neither of these areas. The AOBC understands that smoking is a personal choice as is choosing not to smoke therefore if you do smoke please be courteous around non smoking AOBC members.

Jewellery – For your safety please remove rings, watches, earrings, body piercing's etc before training. Items of jewellery can get broken or hurt you or other AOBC members. Body jewellery from piercing's can get caught up in clothing whilst practising un-armed combat. After removing jewellery place it in a safe place. The AOBC will not be held responsible for any lost items.

Clothing – When training, if possible wear loose black clothing (T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms) NO JEANS!.This is NOT so AOBC members look ‘cool’. The AOBC has chosen black for our training clothes as it has been found to be the most practical colour that stays the cleanest and tidiest while you train and looks more presentable over a period of time. Please wear suitable footwear for training in a gym such as trainers.

Beginners should wear loose clothing (T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms). T-shirts with offensive slogans are NOT permitted.

Water - Please bring a bottle of water to training to re-hydrate yourself.

C.R.B checks (Criminal records bureau) – All AOBC members should declare any criminal convictions excluding minor road traffic offences such a speeding. At some point all AOBC members will be asked to undergo a CRB check in order to participate in certain events where members of the public and their children may be present. Any AOBC member failing to disclose appropriate information which comes to light due to a CRB check will have their licence and membership revoked.

Medication – AOBC members taking medicine which could cause drowsiness shall not engage in a combat display or tournament. Any AOBC member found to be under the influence of alcohol or any illegal substance during training or while participating in an event or tournament will have their licence and membership revoked.

Health – Any AOBC member or person attending regular training, workshop or taster session is required to notify the AOBC of any medical conditions that they have. Before starting any sporting activity please consult your doctor.

Safety equipment – When training, AOBC members and non-members are required to wear any appropriate safety equipment (fencing helmet, gauntlets, pads, box, chest protectors, etc) necessary for the type of training you are participating in. Failure to do this could result in injury.

Anyone participating in TE-MA must understand that it is a contact martial art and that English Country Backswording is a contact sport and that injuries can occur. Safety in training and bouting is paramount.



Child protection policy

Equal opportunities statement