Children as young as 10 are taking lessons in how to avoid being stabbed.
Specially adapted self-defence classes are being run by a martial arts school at All Souls Clubhouse in Camden, north London, for 10 to 16-year-olds.
The workshops will teach youngsters how to deal with confrontations and advise them to run away from potential attackers or hand over their property.
A total of 16 teenagers have died as a result of violent crime in London since the beginning of the year.
Dalia Terret, from KB Fitness, who is running the courses, said: "We thought it would be helpful for the community if we could offer something positive for the children.
"Quite a lot of kids I've spoken to about the current crime situation are worried and scared and not quite sure what to do if they are attacked with a knife or another weapon."
Ms Tarret said the classes were about being confident and how to avoid being a victim of crime.
She said the children would be taught that "running away is not a bad thing and they don't have to fight".
Officers from the Metropolitan Police were due to attend the first lesson on Saturday to watch and give advice.
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