The History of the Ilyokwan Black Belt Academy

The Dursley School of Tae Kwon-Do was founded in 1995 by Richard Olpin. Since then, the school has gone from strength to strength. In 2002 the school was renamed to the “Ilyokwan Black Belt Academy”.

(What does “Ilyokwan” mean? Click here to find out! )

What you will learn at the Black Belt Academy?

Our system is a blending of traditional and contemporary martial arts that offers you not only an effective self defence program, but means for a personal development, character development and self discipline.

With this formula for success you will be able to handle the constant pressures of everyday living more easily. Children learn to concentrate and focus their energy constructively which results in better school work and grades.

The Ilyokwan syllabus’ progressive style of martial arts training will provide you with a comprehensive course based on the Korean Martial Art of Taekwondo, the most popular Martial Art in the world today!

In addition to our core skills from Taekwondo, you will also learn effective street self defence techniques and skills to help you with the psychology of a confrontation. In advanced stages of training senior students may choose to learn how to use traditional martial arts weapons, both as an art form and in practical application.

Our children’s programmes cater to the very specific needs of a growing child, profiding a strong base of motivation, self-discipline, confidence and respect.

“It’s not about punching and kicking…
…it’s about caring”

In the News…

Key dates in the history of the Black Belt Academy
1995In September 1995 Richard Olpin opened “The Dursley School of Taekwondo”
2000First Black Belts
2001Master Olpin left his day job to teach full time
2002re-name the school as the “Ilyokwan Black Belt Academy”
2004Master Olpin inducted into the World Wide Martial Arts Hall of Fame
Promoted to 5th Degree Black Belt
2009BNMAA Award for Contribution to Martial Arts in the UK
2013GIMA Instructor of the Year 2013
Master Olpin promoted to 6th Degree Black Belt