With our Christmas graduation we traditionally present some annual awards.

The Special Awards recognise students who we feel should be recognised for their character or example they’ve set, and then we have our Student of the Year who we feel has shown the best overall example of the martial arts this year.

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Special Awards for 2025:

Juniors:

Daniel Ford

Daniel’s not always found the technical side of the training ‘easy’, but he’s shown real tenacity to stick at his training, and that’s a very admirable quality in a youngster which many could learn from.  Well done Daniel!

Adults:

Hannah Cornford

When Hannah first enquired about training she told us that she wasn’t even sure she’d be able to do it, having some medical challenges including joint issues and a condition which left her in constant pain. She was also recovering from a serious injury at the time but she wanted to ‘give it a go’.   It’s fair to say she hit the ground running, as our only beginner at the time she threw herself into er training both feet first and has made some great progress already

In recognition of an excellent start to your martial arts journey, the consistent focus and effort you’ve shown in your training, and the excellent example you demonstrate to your peers.

Calvert Pratt:  

Mr P has been one of the most consistent and dedicated students we’ve ever had the pleasure of training with.  Joining us nearly 10 years ago, he’s demonstrated the true character of a Black Belt, and has been entirely selfless in his approach, always willing to help others, to work with new beginners and been Master O’s regular ‘uke’ for demonstrations in class etc. for years now.   He’s decided to hang up his belt for a while, and we’ll miss him tremendously at the school. If ever a student deserved a Black Belt it’s Calvert, and we’ll very much look forward to seeing him for gradings and socials even if not in the regular classes (for now….)

“In recognition of your many dedicated years of focus, effort, and martial spirit. You’ve demonstrated a first class example to your peers, shown the very essence of ‘Black Belt Attitude’ and become an inspiration to all who’ve trained with you. Thank you for being such an outstanding ‘uke’ over the years!”

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Student of the Year 2026
Alfie Bayliss

Alfie has always been a keen student, but since he was promoted to black belt candidate in September we noticed that inspired him to really raise his game in anticipation of te next stage of his training.  Alfie has shown a really first class attitude since then, with a very respectful attitude and a real willingness to step up in class, leading by example at all times and showing exactly what we’re looking for in a future black belt!

Well done Alfie!