Kent Karate Schools

Karatê꧁操你꧂ ᥫ᭡✞

We are pleased to announce a rare training opportunity with Hanshi Reverend Joe Ellis, 8th Dan, on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, at the Thannington Resource Centre in Canterbury, starting at 7:15 PM. This session will focus on technical training utilising traditional Japanese kyokushinkai and tsuyoi karate methods, emphasising the training philosophies of both Mas Oyama, 10th Dan, and Gerry Bryan, 10th Dan. Participants will receive a session booklet outlining key training points and a certificate of attendance personally signed by Hanshi. The session fee is £10. Both NAKMAS members and non-members are welcome to attend.

(Photograph shows Hanshi taken on Wednesday 5, August 2026. Ⓒ Shihan Dr Sandra-Beale Ellis 7th Dan).

All children’s classes are now closed for the summer holidays and will reopen from Monday September 7, 2026; the adult classes are still running and children are invited to attend the adult sessions during the summer providing they have a minimum grade of 4th kyu (purple belt).

www.kentkarateschools.co.uk

This photo shows Shihan Dr Sandra presenting Shihan Joshua with the NAKMAS 5th Dan black belt certificate after the recent audit and assessment by the NAKMAS National Management Committee at Kingsmead Leisure & Pools last Sunday.

For Shihan Joshua, this moment is a giant achievement in his karate journey and a testament to his years of dedication and training. Shihan Dr Sandra and Shihan Joshua also joined their peers in celebrating this milestone, showcasing the spirit of camaraderie within the karate community.

Shihan teaches children’s educational karate, which is autism-friendly, at Active Life - Kingsmead Leisure Centre Canterbury on Saturdays from 9 until 10am (free car parking is available).

www.kentkarateschools.co.uk

Kent Karate Schools area grading sheet is now available from your instructor or online via our Facebook Group via https://www.facebook.com/groups/kentkarateschools

JOSHUA TRAYLOR

Joshua Traylor was promoted to 5th Dan (Shihan) by the NAKMAS National Management Committee today after a formal assessment and audit.

Everyone at the Kent Karate Schools congratulates Joshua, and we are incredibly proud of him.

www.kentkarateschools.co.uk

CHILDREN’S CLASSES AT KINGSMEAD EVERY SATURDAY 9AM UNTIL 10AM

KENT KARATE SCHOOLS: FOUR DECADES OF DISCIPLINE AND TRADITION

Kent Karate Schools has long been at the forefront of promoting not only self-defence and martial arts proficiency but also a strong ethos of inclusivity, particularly regarding autism and anti-bullying initiatives.

Since its inception in 1983, the schools have cultivated an environment where expert nationally registered instructors leverage the disciplined art of karate to empower students, instilling confidence and resilience. Their comprehensive curriculum is tailored to accommodate individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring that each student receives personalised attention that respects their unique abilities and needs.

By integrating structured routines with empathetic mentorship, Kent Karate Schools actively combat bullying by educating students on respect, empathy, and non-violence principles. This holistic approach underscores their commitment to social responsibility within communities, making them more than just martial arts institutions—essentially leading figures in community well-being and individual growth through strategic partnerships with parents and national and local educational institutions.

In the heart of martial arts excellence since 1983, Kent Karate Schools stands as a beacon of leadership and skill.

www.kentkarateschools.co.uk

† PHIL HADDEN

Yesterday's funeral for Phil was a sobering experience.

It was packed; all seats were filled, and people were standing in a lovely church in Broadstairs, Kent, remembering with much love and emotion the man they called husband, dad, granddad, brother, and friend.

It was deeply touching and very emotional, but Phil would have been proud of his family yesterday as he clearly was in real life.

Phil was so very supportive of me and Sandra back in my twenties. He supported us as friends and helped us through some very hard times. He was able to work things out with care and love, and I regret not properly thanking him for all the support he gave us both those many years ago while he was alive. The regret will remain with me until the end.

Phil was so generous to let us be at the hospital when his daughter was born. Both Sandra and I will never forget those emotions that Phil and we had and the joy of a child being born, a daughter, whom he loved so very much.

Phil was a person who everyone loved and liked. Supported by his lovely and adoring wife, Mandie, they both had wonderful, beautiful children brought up with much love and support, which clearly shows and is evident today.

Yes, Phil was a talented karateka and a true martial artist, but most importantly, he was a kind, loving, and very affectionate human being, as many people will confirm.

To Mandie, you will miss your husband dearly, as will all your family and friends. But I give you and your family a promise. I will always be here for you all. Whatever support you need now and in the distant future, I’m here for you, hand on heart.

Yes, we will all remember Phil in our own way. Both Sandra and I will always be so very grateful for knowing Phil and Mandie and for the cherished memories we have of their children.

A great man like Phil leaves an indelible mark; may his journey beyond be filled with the love he so generously shared.

Rest in peace, Phil. You left a wonderful legacy, and I will never forget you.

Joe x

(Photo shows Phil)