Cultivating Mastery in Teaching

In Kali Sikaran, instructor training is the heart of our commitment to excellence. These programs are designed to continually develop our instructors, keeping them at the forefront of the art through updates on evolving training programs, refined instruction methodologies, and practical insights drawn from decades of collective experience. We provide a space to address questions, share best practices, and refine teaching skills—ensuring every instructor can inspire and empower their students effectively. Whether you're an aspiring teacher or a seasoned practitioner, our training fosters growth, adaptability, and a deeper connection to the art.

Philosophy of Instructor Training

Our instructor development philosophy is rooted in the same principles that define Kali Sikaran: progressive growth, functionality, and community. We view teaching as an extension of the warrior mindset—requiring discipline, empathy, and continuous adaptation. Training sessions emphasize not just technical proficiency but also effective communication, student motivation, and safe, inclusive environments.

Key elements include:

  • Ongoing Updates: Regular reviews of program changes, incorporating new techniques, safety protocols, and real-world applications.

  • Methodological Refinement: Workshops on instruction strategies, such as progressive scaling, feedback techniques, and adapting to diverse learner needs.

  • Collaborative Learning: Interactive forums for answering questions, troubleshooting challenges, and sharing experiences to elevate teaching quality.

  • Experience-Driven Insights: Leveraging our team's vast background to provide practical, time-tested advice on everything from class management to advanced skill integration.

    This holistic approach ensures instructors remain inspired and equipped to guide others on their Kali Sikaran journey.

Our Instructor Development Programs

We offer structured, multi-level instructor training tailored to different stages of expertise. Programs run periodically in Perth, Western Australia, and in Norway, blending in-person sessions with optional online components for flexibility.

Core Components:

  • Foundational Instructor Certification: For new instructors, covering basics of class structure, technique breakdown, and student assessment. Focuses on building confidence in delivering safe, engaging and effective lessons.

  • Advanced Methodology Workshops: Dive into updated training curricula, innovative teaching tools, and adaptive strategies for various group dynamics (e.g., beginners vs. advanced practitioners).

  • Specialized Updates and Q&A Sessions: Dedicated gatherings to discuss program evolutions, answer specific queries, and explore instruction challenges—drawing on real scenarios from years of practice.

  • Mentorship and Peer Review: Pairing with experienced mentors for personalized guidance, including observation, feedback, and role-playing to hone skills.

  • Annual Refresher Seminars: Comprehensive reviews to integrate the latest insights, ensuring consistency across our community.

  • Continuously Improving Instructor Programs: We constantly update and improve our instructor programs, now with the aided support of online training videos based off of the instructors questions and requests.

Meet Our Lead Instructors

Our instructor training is led by a team with unparalleled depth of experience, bringing authenticity and wisdom to every session.

  • Guro Michael Santos: With over 28 years as an instructor in Kali Sikaran and related arts, Santos specialises in blending traditional techniques with modern applications. His expertise in close-quarters tactics and Panantukan/Sikaran (Filipino Boxing/Kickboxing) has shaped countless practitioners, and he excels at mentoring others in clear, engaging instruction.

  • Lahong Guro Heikki Martikainen: Boasting 30 years dedicated to Kali Sikaran, and over 46 years exploring a multitude of martial arts styles, systems, and organisations, Heikki offers a broad, integrative perspective. His background informs adaptive teaching methods, program development, and helping instructors navigate complex student needs with precision and experience.

Together, their combined decades of experience provide a rich foundation for guidance, helping instructors evolve through proven strategies and innovative approaches.

Benefits of our Instructor Training

Participating in our Instructor Trainings yields lasting advantages:

  • Enhanced teaching skills, leading to more engaged and successful students.

  • Access to the latest program updates and methodologies for staying current.

  • A supportive network for ongoing questions, collaboration, and professional growth.

  • Increased confidence in handling diverse training scenarios, from group classes to one-on-one coaching.

  • Personal development, fostering resilience, leadership, and a deeper appreciation for the art.

  • An appreciated way to have a say in the direction and development of our system.