As the year begins to draw to a close, October has been an incredibly busy and successful month for the club. From fantastic performances at the Southern Championships to our final Colour Belt Grading and a fun-filled Halloween session for our Tigers, there’s been lots to celebrate. Here’s a look back at what’s been happening and a few important dates to keep in mind as we head into the festive season.

Southern Championships

What a fantastic day this was! A huge well done to everyone who was involved in one of our favourite local competitions — competitors, referees, umpires, coaches, and parents. It was another outstanding success for the club, finishing top of the overall leaderboard!

We ended the day with a meal together at the Cowick Barton —  a lovely evening spent reflecting on what was truly a remarkable day for the club.

Congratulations to our Medal Winners:

• Joshua – Gold in Sparring
• Lucy – Bronze in Patterns
• Luna – Silver in Sparring
• Ela – Gold in Sparring
• Amelia – Silver in Sparring
• Alara – Bronze in Sparring
• Neil – Gold in Patterns
• Sarah – Bronze in Sparring, Gold in Team Patterns, Gold in Team Sparring
• Gemma – Bronze in Sparring
• Lorraine – Bronze in Sparring
• Cassie – Gold in Sparring
• Alex – Silver in Sparring, Silver in Team Sparring
• Ethan – Silver in Patterns, Gold in Sparring, Gold in Team Sparring

Colour Belt Grading

And just like that, our final Colour Belt Grading of the year has come and gone! With most of our Colour Belts grading this time, it was a busy few weeks of preparation. Everyone worked extremely hard to get ready for their final challenge of the year — many straight off the back of the Southern Championships!

We’re delighted to announce that all 23 students passed their grading — a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.

Congratulations to our Promotions:

• 9th Kup: Steve
• 8th Kup: Clara, Faryn, Jasper, Lauren & Tristan
• 7th Kup: Ivy
• 6th Kup: Amelie, Matilda, Peter, Aga, Carolina, Rafael, Aimee & Neil
• 5th Kup: Lucy, Henry & Isaac
• 4th Kup: Luna
• 3rd Kup: Zosia, Ela & Alara
• 2nd Kup: Pablo

A Passes: Steve, Faryn, Jasper, Lucy & Alara

A special congratulations to Alara, who was awarded the Grading Award!

We couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of you for your hard work, dedication, and focus. Thank you also to our amazing Black Belts for their guidance, and to all the parents and families for your encouragement and support throughout the process.

Halloween Fun for the Tigers

On the 1st of November, our Tigers enjoyed a fun session of Halloween-themed games and activities. It was fantastic to see everyone dressed in their scariest costumes and joining in the celebrations. A big thank you to everyone who helped make the session a success.

Change of Venue (Wednesday Class)

Please note that on Wednesday 26th of November and Wednesday 3rd of December, classes will take place in the Dance Studio at St Luke’s School instead of West Exe. This is the same venue as our Thursday classes. Usual time of 6:00 - 7:00PM. 

British Championships

Sunday, 30th of November – Worcester Arena

The British Championships marks our final competition of the calendar year! This national event is an excellent opportunity for competitors to gain experience, particularly for those aiming for the European Championships next year. The deadline to enter is Wednesday, 12th of November. Good luck to everyone taking part!

Next Club Senior Grade Session

Monday, 1st of December

Our final senior grade training session of the year will be held on Monday, 1st December, following the British Championships. Open to Black stripes and above, this will replace the second hour of fitness/sparring. We encourage as many senior grades as possible to attend and make the most of this focused session.

Christmas Party!

Friday, 19th of December – Royal British Legion, Alphington

Save the date for our favourite event of the year — the End of Year Christmas Party! Tickets will be available soon, so please reserve yours as soon as they’re released.

We’ll also be announcing our Student’s Student of the Year awards — one adult and one junior — so start thinking about your nominations!

Christmas Break

19th of December – 5th of January

The Christmas Party marks the end of training for 2025. We hope you all enjoy a well-earned rest and a joyful festive season. Training resumes on Monday, 5th January 2026, with an exciting calendar ahead to kick off the New Year.

Key Dates for 2026

• Monday, 5th January: First Session Back
• Thursday, 29th January: Colour Belt Pre-Grading
• Saturday, 31st January: Black Belt Patterns Course
• Sunday, 1st February: South-West Championships
• Sunday, 8th February: Colour Belt Grading

October has truly shown the strength, spirit, and dedication of our club community. Whether through competition, grading, or simply showing up with enthusiasm and teamwork, you’ve all contributed to another fantastic month. Is it great to see the club as a whole moving forwards!

As we move into the final weeks of the year, let’s finish strong, celebrate our achievements, and look forward to an even more successful 2026!