SENIOR INSTRUCTORS

OUR APPROACH

Our instructors are the heart of our dojo, each bringing a wealth of experience, dedication, and passion for karate.
Fully trained and DBS-checked, we are committed not only to teaching the techniques of karate but also to guiding students on their individual journeys of self-improvement.

Our instructors believe that every student, regardless of age or ability, has unique strengths and potential, and they work to bring out the best in each person.

With years of experience in both practicing and teaching karate, our instructors emphasise a well-rounded approach to training. They are lifelong learners themselves, continually refining their knowledge to offer the highest quality of instruction.

Whether working with children just beginning their karate journey or adults returning after years away, our instructors meet each student where they are, helping them set and achieve personal goals.

Our instructors are dedicated to creating a dojo where students feel like part of a family, training together and supporting each other.

We embody the philosophy that karate is for everyone and work tirelessly to build a community rooted in shared growth and mutual respect.

Through our commitment, we inspire each student to develop not only their skills in karate but also a strong sense of character and inner strength.

SHIHAN PAUL FERRIS

Shihan Paul Ferris, 8th Dan, a direct student of Sōke Kenji Kusano, is the backbone of our dojo, and a masterful karate instructor whose dedication to the discipline is matched only by his ability to adapt and connect with students of all ages and backgrounds.

With decades of experience, Shihan Paul exemplifies the essence of traditional karate, combining a deep respect for technique with a compassionate approach to teaching.

His disciplined nature sets a strong example, instilling focus and determination in every student. Yet, he brings a lighthearted energy to the dojo, making each class both challenging and enjoyable.

Shihan Paul believes that karate is for everyone, and his teaching style reflects this inclusivity. He has a unique talent for tailoring his instruction to suit each audience, whether working with young beginners, seasoned practitioners, or families training together.

His commitment to excellence and his ability to balance discipline with fun have earned him the respect and admiration of students and peers alike.

Under his guidance, students not only learn karate’s physical techniques but also its deeper lessons of perseverance, respect, and self-mastery.

SHIHAN-DAI A JOHN COLES

Shihan-Dai John, 6th Dan, is a highly respected instructor known for his keen eye and unwavering attention to detail.

With years of dedicated practice, he has mastered the art of precision in karate, emphasising the importance of perfecting every movement and technique.

Shihan-Dai John believes that true power in karate comes from a solid foundation, and he inspires his students to continually refine their skills with patience and care.

His teaching style is meticulous and focused, helping students understand the nuances that elevate their karate practice.

Shihan-Dai John’s commitment to detail enables him to guide students toward mastery, one step at a time, while building their confidence and discipline.

Under his guidance, students not only learn to perform techniques with accuracy but also develop a deeper understanding of karate’s principles and values.

SHIHAN-DAI B MARK JONES

Shihan-Dai Mark, 4th Dan, is a highly capable and respected teacher who embodies the true spirit of karate through his exceptional control, humility, and strength.

With years of experience, he has mastered the art of teaching, guiding students through their karate journey with patience and clarity.

His teaching style is rooted in the principles of discipline and self-control, demonstrating that true strength comes from within.

Shihan-Dai Mark’s approach is one of balance - he emphasises the importance of mastering techniques with precision, while also fostering a sense of humility and respect within each student. His calm demeanour and steady presence in the dojo inspire students to focus, stay grounded, and embrace the challenges of their training with resilience.

He believes that karate is not just about physical strength, but about developing the mental and emotional fortitude needed to overcome obstacles and grow as individuals.

Through his guidance, students not only become stronger martial artists but also cultivate inner strength, respect, and a sense of personal pride.

SENPAI HANNAH

Hannah holds the distinguished title of Senpai—our most senior student instructor—and it's a role she has earned through years of commitment, growth, and service to the dojo.

As a 2nd Dan black belt and Senpai level instructor, she brings a decade of experience, patience, and dedication to her teaching.
Her approach is calm and methodical, often leading by quiet example rather than loud instruction, and her sharp technique reflects the years of focused training and refinement she’s put in.

As a Senpai, Hannah holds herself to high standards, and those around her naturally rise to meet them.
Students of all ages respond well to her clear, composed presence and genuine commitment to helping them improve.

Whether she’s leading a kihon drill or guiding a junior through their kata, her attention to detail and thoughtful corrections make a lasting impact.
Outside the dojo, Hannah is known for her love of sleep—often joked about but always well-earned!
She brings a sense of balance to everything she does, believing in the importance of rest as well as hard work. Her dislike of sprouts is legendary, but nothing else seems to throw her off her stride.

Inspired by the battle-ready phrase “Waga tachi wo abi yo!” (Feel the wrath of my sword!), Hannah trains with purpose and passion, showing us all that strength doesn’t always need to be loud—it just needs to be consistent.

DAI SENPAI SUMMER

Summer began her karate journey seven years ago, and since then she has grown into one of the most respected figures in the dojo.

With the rank of 2nd Dan under her belt, Summer is an exceptional martial artist and a natural leader.

She carries herself with clarity, energy, and a quiet confidence that younger students look up to and fellow instructors respect.

As a Shidoin A instructor, Summer plays a key role in shaping the training environment, ensuring that sessions are focused, fun, and full of spirit.

Her cheerleading background shines through in her high energy, sharp focus, and team-first mindset.
While Summer is known for her warmth and encouragement, she’s also a serious and thoughtful practitioner of karate.

She trains with intent, believing firmly that what you do in practice will define how you perform under pressure. Her favourite quote, “You can only fight the way you practice,” perfectly sums up her approach: committed, consistent, and courageous.

Off the mats, Summer isn’t afraid to show her personality—she’ll talk openly about her intense dislike of moths, but she never lets fear stop her from showing up and giving 100%.
She’s a vital part of the dojo’s heartbeat, a guiding figure for juniors, and a trusted teammate for her peers.

Summer’s journey is still unfolding, but she has already left a lasting mark on those around her.

SHIDOIN DAVID

With over 28 years of training, David is one of the most experienced and respected members of our dojo.

A 3rd Dan black belt and Shidoin A level instructor, he brings a depth of knowledge, wisdom, and perspective to every session he leads.

His long-standing commitment to karate is matched only by his passion for helping others grow—not just as martial artists, but as well-rounded individuals.

David’s approach to karate is deeply rooted in holistic living. He believes that the true essence of martial arts lies in the balance of mind, body, and spirit.

His interests in health, fitness, and meditation are seamlessly woven into his teaching style, creating an atmosphere where students are encouraged to train with intention, awareness, and purpose.

He pushes his students to go beyond technique—challenging them to develop resilience, discipline, and a mindset of growth.

A natural mentor, David doesn’t tolerate laziness or giving up easily. His high standards come from a place of belief—that every student has the potential to achieve greatness if they’re willing to put in the work.

He often reminds students with his favourite phrase: “Whether you think you can or cannot, you’re right.” It’s a philosophy that underpins his entire teaching ethos: mindset matters, and effort leads to excellence.

As a senior instructor, David is calm, focused, and highly respected across all age groups. His decades of experience make him not only a skilled martial artist, but also a cornerstone of the dojo community.

SHIDOIN ADAM

Adam is a 2nd Dan black belt and Shidoin B level instructor who has been training for over six years.
Despite his relatively fast progression, his impact in the dojo is deep and far-reaching.

As a senior instructor, Adam is known for his sharp eye, dynamic energy, and a sense of humour that balances perfectly with his serious commitment to the art of karate.

With a love for kumite and all things competitive, Adam brings intensity and excitement to every sparring session—but he always keeps things respectful and technical.

His guiding phrase, “We don’t want blood, we want points.” perfectly sums up his mindset: controlled aggression, precision, and a clear focus on skill over brute force.

Whether he’s coaching a junior through their first tournament or pushing senior grades to refine their timing, Adam always champions smart, strategic karate.

Outside the dojo, Adam has a passion for good food and creativity. An illustrator as well as a martial artist, he brings an artistic eye to his training—always thinking about movement, flow, and form in both visual and physical expression.

His dislike of losing doesn’t make him a sore sport—it just fuels his drive to constantly improve, both in himself and in those he teaches.

Adam is a standout role model for students of all ages, and his unique combination of grit, guidance, and good humour makes him an invaluable part of our senior teaching team. Whether on the mats or behind a sketchbook, he’s always working to bring out the best in himself and others.