Frequently Asked Questions

We generally welcome students from age 5 and up. Our classes are designed to be engaging for children while maintaining the discipline of traditional martial arts.

Yes! We highly encourage family training. Karate is one of the few activities where parents and children can share the same experience, progress through the ranks together, and support each other's journey.

For your first few sessions or a taster, comfortable loose clothing (like leggings or tracksuits and a t-shirt) is perfect. We train in bare feet.

Yes, staying hydrated is essential. You are welcome to bring a water bottle, which is kept at the side of the hall for easy access during designated breaks.

In accordance with our safeguarding policy, requirements are as follows:

• Under 12s: A parent or legal guardian must remain at the venue for the entire duration of the session.
• Ages 12–15: A parent or guardian must be present to drop off and pick up the student from inside the hall.
• Ages 16–17: Students may attend and depart independently with prior written consent from a parent or guardian.

Yes. Every instructor holds an Enhanced DBS check and is registered with the annual update service. Maintaining a safe and secure environment is our highest priority.

Yes. All of our training venues provide free parking on-site. Venues are also equipped with changing rooms and toilet facilities for student use.

Taster Sessions are open to non-members. This allows you to experience a class before committing to membership.

All blocks of sessions, advanced courses, and gradings are strictly for registered members. This ensures everyone is covered by our professional liability insurance.

We use Stripe to process all payments securely. You can book sessions through our website using any major debit or credit card. We do not handle cash at the venues.

Yes. We stock high-quality Karate Gis (uniforms) and belts. Purchasing through the club ensures you have the correct style and quality for our training syllabus.

The Shotokan Karate Bible is the definitive visual guide to the style we practice. It is an essential resource for students, covering basics through to the core syllabus patterns.

Yes. The Advanced Shotokan Bible focuses on higher-level Kata and technical applications required for those working toward brown and black belt ranks.

Yes. Students from recognized Shotokan associations are welcome to wear their current rank. We perform an informal assessment during your first few weeks to ensure you are comfortable with our specific syllabus before you move to the next level.

Yes, please. Bringing your previous record book or Dan certificate helps us verify your history and ensures we can correctly register your details for insurance purposes.