Hari Singh Nalwa Combat Academy (HSNCA) has been running for over 12 years, supported through goodwill and donations/gifts from the local community. Our excellent calibre of coaches run multiple martial arts, including Boxing, Thai boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, and more, throughout the week, including weekends. Most coaches volunteer pro-bono, giving back to the community that gives to them. Starting the October half-term period, we would like to expand our current evening classes and facilitate additional classes throughout the day to give kids and teens from all backgrounds a safe space to go during the summer break to not only participate in martial arts-based activities but also build a network of new friends. We aim to engage and support vulnerable young people, getting them off the streets and away from criminal influences. We hope to develop their confidence while educating them about the importance of self-defence and conflict management.

What we'll deliver:

• 3 x 1.5 hour Boxing classes a week over a 13 week period
• 2 x 1.5 hour evening Muay Thai (thai -boxing) classes a week over a 13 week period
• 2 x 1.5 hour Jujitsu classes a week over a 13 week period
• 1 x 1.5 hour MMA classes a week over a 13 week period

Why it's a great idea:

Our program offers a secure and supervised environment for children and young adults of all ages to gather during the evenings. They will learn martial arts-based skills, ensuring their physical development, safety, and security. The club's vision is to create a family-based training environment through the selfless work of our volunteers and professional coaches. The classes are creative places where the students can make new friends during and outside the club. Our student base comes from varied backgrounds socially, economically, and culturally, helping break down barriers within and outside of the club. We will also provide a snack (fruit-based or other) after each class. As we are based in our Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship), a free hot meal will also be available to those who may require meal support at anytime.

Steps to get it done:

• Offer the 3 martial arts disciplines previously mentioned throughout the week by our professional coaches
• Retaining our summer 'interns' as permanent members once the summer programme expires
• Helping the students to take on a healthier lifestyle even if they decide not to stay with the club

The HNSCA gym was founded and continues to embrace the Sikh philosophy of Naam Japna (the focus on God), Kirat Karni (honest living) and Vand Chakna (sharing with others). This approach aspires to support participants in improving their approach to training, critically reflecting on their personal development, and managing their well-being. In the Leicester East area, especially in the North Evington region, there are currently very few places and opportunities for young people and families to participate in exercise activities typically offered at professional gymnasiums. Many of our participants are from a low socio-economic background and benefit from attending many free classes (including yoga, strength and conditioning, and boxing sessions). A healthy community inspires people to be positive individuals in the local and wider communities.