Ethos

Capoeira is a versatile activity that appeals to young people and offers something new for hard-to-reach sectors of our society e.g. children with behavioural/ learning difficulties.

CCs main philosophy is to recognise childrens natural affinity with movement, games and music, and guide this in positive, developmental ways.  Our core focus is on personal development using the multi-disciplinary activities of Capoeiras' music, history, etiquette and movement, with more subtle elements of the art-form and its teaching for children with complex needs.

Practicing Capoeira takes us all beyond what we predict is possible with our own bodies. As we surpass our perceived limitations, we feel a subtle change in our sense of self. This aids the growth of self-confidence within a fun environment. That is why it works, there are so many elements that set Capoeira apart from other activities

We like to work with any group, from gifted and Talented to all Complex needs groups including Severe Learning Difficulties and Behavourial Difficulties. We can use Makaton sign language as well as flash-cards but require 1-1 supervisers for participants.

Children with complex needs present special challenges but bring very special rewards. While it is unlikely that any of our children will attain to the level that might be expected from a young dedicated person without learning difficulties, every single one of the pupils attending the Capoeira sessions has made significant learning gains. While our children are different, it is probably true to say that if you can help our children to learn, you can make it happen for any children. You have passed with flying colours

David Bridson, then Deputy Headteacher Hall School, Norwich. Dec 2006

Progression forYoung People

Capoeira Communities meet young people in a variety of ways; through their schools and colleges at one-off multi-cultural days, public performances, taster sessions with independent youth organisations catering for various needs. From there, children take the opportunity to learn at a regular class in Norwich, or class set-up near them due to local demand. They can train to a high skill level over a number of years which includes travelling the UK and Europe to visit other groups or events. They can increase their confidence by becoming part of our Performance team, giving them new experiences within the arts. Beyond this we offer long-term progression pathways, where they can start to train as an assistant and then Instructor to work as part of our team, inspiring new audiences of children completing the cycle.

Workshops and regular classes

TYPICAL WORKSHOP CONTENT

Over an hour long workshop we would start with a 5 minute welcome and introduction followed by appropriate warm-up and stretch (10mins) We work with an audience specific approach, i.e. games for little children, simple structured stretching exercises for young teens, copying games for special needs groups.
We then move onto teaching a basic sequence of movements, by learning each part individually then a sequence that they can execute with a partner; Including a simple kick, dodge and escaping movement. (25 mins)
We look at the intention behind the game, and how to create the right atmosphere, including playing simple instruments, (10mins) finally we bring all the elements together and play with the students and set them to play each other. (10 mins)

In workshops we can look at a variety of elements:

• Enjoyable movements
• Playing instruments; Drums, Tambourines, bells, berimbaus.
• Singing
• Fitness; flexibility, agility, strength.
• Balance; posture and using movement
• Playfulness
• Afro-Brazilian history, Capoeira history, context and folklore.
• Playing instruments; Berimbaus, atabaques, pandeiros, ago-go bells, reco-reco.
• Singing in chorus
• Body conditioning; flexibility, agility, core strength.
• Development of reactions.
• Music, rhythm and timing; movement of shoulders, waist and feet.
• Balance; physical posture and mental composure.
• Hustling with body movement; the timing of faking movements and change of direction.
• Observation of the opponent.
• Energy and vitality; creating explosive power to move.

Formatting for your needs

We can arrange workshops to suit your needs. We like to work in blocks of one-hour to one- and-a-half hours. We offer single workshops and whole days. We are available for residential stays and international workshops.
A typical day can run up to three long workshops or four intensive workshops. E.g. 4 x 1 hour,
3 x 11/2 hours.
This format can run over any period of time; consecutive or random days.
Ideal class size is 15 participants per instructor. Although contracts can vary considerably.

Please contact us to discuss your schedule for more options.

Equipment and preparation

Workshops need a clear open space to work in. Approximately one- square metre per participant. If this is not possible we can organise the exercises so that participants take it in turns to practice; half watching from the side line, then rotating.

The floor or ground should be a hard, smooth floor of stone, concrete, wood or on short, dry grass. Carpeted floors are NOT preferable.

We like to use background Capoeira music for all our workshops; therefore we need either an electricity power point, or notice to provide our own battery power.

Participants should be prepared for a physical workout, and be wearing loose, comfortable clothing, and either trainers or go barefoot. It is advisable to have drinking water available.

We are fully insured with public liability and instructor indemnity to 5M. We are "Enhanced CRB" checked, and have first-aid, good practice, child protection and education awareness certification as run by Norfolk County Councils Sport Coach programme.

Please fill in this online booking form with your request so that we know exactly what you would like...alternatively email us directly on the address below, or call our office.

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