Kids Martial Arts
Little Tigers
(Ages 5-8)
Where the journey begins - building coordination, confidence, and a love of movement in a fun, structured environment.
Listening, focus, and following instruction
Coordination, balance, and basic motor skills
Courtesy, respect, and fair play
Energetic, game-based learning
Little Tigers is designed for children aged 5-8 who are stepping onto the mat for the very first time. Classes are energetic, structured, and built around age-appropriate activities that develop physical coordination and basic motor skills while introducing the values of respect, courtesy, and self-discipline. Every class is designed to feel like fun - because at this age, enjoyment is the lesson. Children progress at their own pace, building a foundation that will serve them well both on and off the mat.
Little Dragons
(Graduates of Little Tigers)
The next step for Little Tigers who are ready for greater challenge, focus, and their first taste of real Kenpo.
Balance, agility, and fine motor coordination
Introduction to Kenpo self-defence concepts
Goal-setting and personal achievement
Increased discipline and self-awareness
Little Dragons is not an age group - it is an achievement. Students who have demonstrated the focus, discipline, and foundational skills developed in Little Tigers are invited to progress into this program, where they begin engaging with real Kenpo concepts for the first time. Classes introduce self-defence principles, basic techniques, and Kenpo terminology in a way that is still playful and encouraging, while expecting more from each student. This is where children begin to understand that martial arts is a journey with real milestones.
Juniors
(Ages 9-14)
Structured Kenpo training that builds real skills, self-reliance, and confidence through a progressive belt system.
Kenpo techniques, forms, and terminology
Focus, concentration, and self-discipline
Personal responsibility and leadership
Regular evaluation and belt progression
The Junior program is where training becomes serious - in the best possible way. Students aged 9 and above, as well as younger students with prior experience, train within a structured belt ranking system that provides clear goals and regular opportunities for evaluation and advancement. Classes cover Kenpo techniques, self-defence applications, forms, and the principles that underpin the art. Beyond the physical, students develop focus, personal responsibility, and the kind of quiet confidence that carries into school, relationships, and everyday life.
“Learn Kenpo correctly the first time. Who has the time to learn the same thing the second time.” - Paul Mills
Self-Defence for Children
Self-defence for children begins long before anything physical. Training focuses first on awareness, avoidance, and the confidence to use their voice, recognising situations early and making safer choices.
Where physical responses are introduced, they are taught gradually, age-appropriately, and with strong emphasis on control and decision-making rather than aggression. All training is closely supervised and designed to be empowering, not intimidating.
Is My Child Ready?
Every child is different. While Little Tigers is designed for children from age 5, age alone is not the deciding factor.
Emotional readiness, the ability to follow basic instruction, and a willingness to participate in a group setting matter more than a number.
A trial class will tell you everything you need to know.
Progression and Belts
Progression is based on:
Understanding
Effort
Behaviour
Consistency
Belts are earned gradually and reflect genuine development, not attendance alone. There are no rushed promotions or automatic gradings.
Each step is meant to build confidence and pride through real achievement.
Getting Started
A trial class allows both parents and children to experience the training environment without pressure.
Comfortable training clothes are all that’s required.
Questions are welcome, and parents are encouraged to observe.
Book a Trial Class
If you’re looking for a safe, structured martial arts program that supports your child’s confidence, discipline, and development, you’re welcome here.
Kids FAQs
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Children can begin training from 5 years old, when they can follow instruction and participate safely in structured martial arts classes.
A trial lesson is required to assess for readiness.
Our kids’ program focuses on confidence, discipline, movement skills, and self-control in a positive, encouraging environment. -
No. Our classes are beginner-friendly and designed to help you learn at your own pace.
Whether it’s your first time trying martial arts or you’re returning after years away, we’ll guide you step-by-step. -
Absolutely. Safety is our highest priority.
Training is controlled, supervised, and age-appropriate.
Students learn how to move safely, protect their training partners, and build skills gradually. -
Just wear comfortable activewear such as:
A t-shirt
Shorts or track pants
Bare feet
Uniforms are only required once you officially join the academy.
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Yes. Parents are welcome to watch, especially during the first few lessons.
Seeing how your child trains, how the class is run, and how the environment feels is important for building trust and confidence.
Once children settle in, some parents choose to step out to encourage independence, but this is entirely your choice. -
Simply book a trial lesson through our website or message us on social media.
You’re also welcome to watch a class first, meet Mike, and see what the academy is like. -
Beginners start at their own pace and are paired appropriately.
As students grow more confident, they work with a wider range of partners, always in a respectful and safe environment. -
Yes.
Private sessions are available for students who want personalised coaching, accelerated learning, or focused preparation for belts or self-defence. -
We take belt progression seriously.
Students advance based on consistency, effort, and real understanding, not just time in class.
Belts are earned, never rushed, ensuring each rank reflects genuine skill, confidence, and personal growth. -
Our core system is principle-based Kenpo, focusing on practical self-defence, timing, structure, and efficient movement.
We also integrate elements of Grappling, Judo, and controlled flow training to create a well-rounded, adaptable skill set.
Everything complements the Kenpo foundation and helps students build confidence and strong body mechanics. -
Kenpo teaches children why movements work, not just how to copy them.
It helps them understand:Awareness and distance
Control and timing
Structure and balance
Respect and discipline
This builds both physical skill and strong character.
Skill over Spectacle.
i.
Principle First
Every technique is taught with the reasoning behind it, so students learn to adapt rather than memorise.
ii.
Calm Under Pressure
Training environments are demanding but supportive. Composure is built through repetition, not fear.
iii.
Long-Term Development
No shortcuts, no belt chasing. Real skill takes time, and we honour that pace for every student.