Junior Instructor Program

General

What is the Junior Instructor Program?
It’s a leadership development program for active GB Montréal-Ouest students aged 14 and up. Participants complete an online course through the Gracie Barra Institute, pass an exam, then do 10 hours of practical training assisting real classes. At the end, they earn an official certificate and can join our team as Junior Instructors.

When does it start?
March 16, 2026.

How long does it last?
4 weeks. One session per week, 2.5 hours each (4:15–6:45 PM).

What days is it available?
Monday through Thursday. Each participant picks the day that works best for them — first come, first served.

How many spots are available?
Only 5 for this first cohort.

How much does it cost?
It’s completely free.

Eligibility & Selection

Who is eligible?
Active GB Montréal-Ouest students, aged 14 and up, grey/white belt minimum. They need to have a current membership at our school.

My child trains somewhere else — can they apply?
No, this program is exclusively for active members of GB Montréal-Ouest. It’s an investment in our own community.

My child is 13 — can they still apply?
Not for this cohort, but we’ll likely run future rounds. We’d encourage them to apply when they turn 14. Let Bruno know so we can keep them on the list.

How are participants selected?
Applications are reviewed individually. Earlier submissions get priority, but the final selection is based on maturity, motivation, and readiness — not just speed. Bruno reviews every application personally.

My child is shy — is this still for them?
Absolutely. This program isn’t only for the loudest kids — it’s designed to build confidence, not require it. Some of the best instructors are the quiet, attentive ones. If your child is curious and willing to step outside their comfort zone, that’s exactly the kind of student we’re looking for.

Program Content

What’s the online course about?
It’s an official Gracie Barra Institute course covering teaching fundamentals, class structure, safety, communication with students, and the GB philosophy. There’s an exam at the end and an official certificate upon passing.

What does the practical part involve?
They assist real classes — helping demonstrate techniques, supporting younger students, managing groups, and learning how to run a class under our instructors’ guidance. It’s 10 hours total over the 4 weeks.

Will my child be teaching on their own?
No. They always work alongside a certified instructor. The role is assistant, not lead. They’re learning how to teach, not being thrown in alone.

What happens after they complete the program?
They earn a GB Institute certificate and become eligible to join our team as Junior Instructors. The ongoing commitment would be one day per week, same time slot (4:15–6:45 PM).

Is joining the team mandatory after completing the program?
No. The certificate is theirs regardless. But we hope they’ll want to continue — and most kids who go through this kind of experience do.

Common Concerns

Will this take away from my child’s own training?
It actually enhances it. Teaching is one of the most effective ways to deepen your own understanding of techniques. They’ll also be on the mats for 2.5 hours that day, which is more mat time than a regular class. Many high-level athletes credit their growth to their time teaching.

Is 14 too young for this kind of responsibility?
We don’t think so — and research backs it up. At 14, young people are at a developmental stage where taking on meaningful responsibility builds identity and self-worth. This program is supervised, structured, and supported. They’re not being given more than they can handle — they’re being given exactly the right amount to grow.

My child already has a lot going on with school. Is the time commitment manageable?
It’s one afternoon per week for 4 weeks — 2.5 hours. The online course can be completed at their own pace. We specifically designed it to fit alongside school and other activities without being overwhelming.

What if my child starts and realizes it’s not for them?
That’s okay. We’d rather they try and learn something about themselves than never try at all. There’s no penalty for not completing the program. But we do ask that participants commit seriously when they apply — the spots are limited and others may be waiting.

Will this affect their belt progression?
No. Their belt progression continues on its own track. If anything, the maturity and technical understanding they develop through teaching often accelerates their own growth.

Why is it free? What’s the catch?
There’s no catch. We’re investing in our community. These young instructors make our school stronger, our classes better, and our culture richer. It’s the same philosophy behind the Gracie Barra mission — Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone. Developing leaders from within is one of the best investments we can make.

How to Apply

Apply here: APPLICATION FORM

Applications close when the 5 spots are filled.

Questions? Book a call with Bruno: