Juniors (ages 9–17)

Shotoryu Bideford runs traditional karate classes for children and teenagers aged 9 and over at Abbotsham Village Hall, just outside Bideford, North Devon. Beginners are welcome, no experience is needed, and your child’s first lesson is free.

When and where

• Junior class: Thursday, 6:30–7:30pm
• Abbotsham Village Hall, Abbotsham, Bideford, Devon EX39 5AP
• Free on street parking. 

Cost

• First lesson: free
• Lessons: £5 each, pay as you train
• Annual membership: £15 for 12 and under, £25 for 13 and over. This includes insurance, and membership is needed before your child can grade.

What your child will learn

• Traditional Shotoryu karate: basic techniques, kata (set forms) and partner work
• Self-defence: how to avoid trouble, move out of the way and stay safe
• Confidence, focus, self-discipline and respect
• Fitness, balance, coordination and flexibility, built up gradually

Our club is non-competitive. Children progress at their own pace, not by beating others.

Belts and gradings
Juniors work through the coloured belt system, and gradings are held regularly throughout the year. Older juniors can also attend the annual Shotoryu summer school at West Buckland School.

Safe and well run

• Head instructor Peter Grant, 5th Dan, has over 40 years’ experience in Shotoryu karate. Assistant instructor Charles Teape, 3rd Dan, has over 30 years in martial arts.
• Instructors are DBS checked, insured and first-aid trained.
• Members of the British Martial Arts & Boxing Association (BMABA) and Shoto Ryu Karate Kai

Your first lesson
Your child should wear a T-shirt and jogging bottoms (no zips or jewellery) and bring a drink of water. To help children focus, we ask parents to drop off at 6:25pm and collect at 7:30pm. Peter is always happy to chat before or after class, or on the phone beforehand.

Questions parents ask

• What age can my child start? From 9 years old.
• Does my child need to be fit or sporty? No. Classes build fitness gradually.
• Is karate safe for children? Yes. Classes are supervised and controlled, and the club is non-competitive.
• Can parents train too? Yes. We have adult classes, and many families train together.
• Can I watch the class? We ask parents to drop off and collect, as children focus better without an audience. You’re welcome to talk to Peter before or after any session.

Book a free first lesson: call Peter on 07813 083954 or email peter@bideford-karate.co.uk