Kudos Martial Arts
More than martial arts – we develop confidence, discipline and
character for life through karate
Children’s Karate Classes in Sandwich
About the Sandwich Club
For ages 5 to 11 years old.
Looking for quality karate classes for your child in Sandwich? Kudos Martial Arts Sandwich has been teaching children traditional Kyokushin karate for over 20 years, building a reputation as the area’s most established and trusted martial arts school for children. Originally founded by Yuji Okamoto — a Kyokushinkai instructor from Japan — our Sandwich club has deep roots in authentic Kyokushin training and has helped hundreds of young students across the local community develop confidence, discipline, and essential life skills.
Our children’s classes (ages 5-11) take place across two convenient Sandwich venues — Sandwich Leisure Centre on Fridays and Sandwich Technology School on Tuesdays — giving local families the flexibility to choose the day and location that works best for them. Both venues are on Deal Road, just next door to each other, and offer the same high standard of Kyokushin instruction in safe, professional environments.
Serving Sandwich and surrounding areas including Deal, Walmer, Eastry, and Ash, we make quality children’s karate training accessible and convenient for families across East Kent.
Why Parents Choose Our Sandwich Children’s Karate Classes
Over 20 Years of Excellence in Sandwich
Since our founding, the Sandwich club has grown into one of the most established and well-respected martial arts schools in East Kent. What began as a single class has developed into a thriving community across two venues, driven by the enthusiasm of our junior students and their families. The adult classes grew naturally from parents of our children wanting to join in — a testament to the quality and atmosphere our instructors create. When you choose Kudos Sandwich, you’re choosing a proven track record built over two decades.
Two Convenient Venues — One Great Club
With classes running on both Tuesdays at Sandwich Technology School and Fridays at Sandwich Leisure Centre, we offer unmatched flexibility for busy families. Whether Tuesday or Friday suits your schedule better, your child will receive exactly the same high standard of Kyokushin instruction at either venue. Both are located on Deal Road, making it easy to switch between sessions as needed.
Expert Instructors Who Understand Children
Our Sandwich instructors are experienced at working with children aged 5-11. All are DBS checked, safeguarding certified, and trained in age-appropriate teaching methods. They know how to make karate fun and engaging while maintaining the discipline and structure that helps children thrive. Your child will receive expert instruction from teachers who genuinely care about their individual development and progress.
Traditional Kyokushin Karate for Young Learners
We teach authentic Kyokushin karate — a traditional Japanese martial art with a structured progression system perfect for children. Unlike generic “kids’ karate” programs, Kyokushin provides clear goals through our coloured belt system, teaching children to set targets, work hard, and achieve genuine accomplishments. This builds real confidence based on actual achievement, not empty praise.
Superb Training Facilities
Join a welcoming community of Sandwich and East Kent families who value martial arts training for their children. Our classes create an environment where children encourage each other, celebrate each other’s successes, and build lasting friendships. Many of the friendships formed on the mat become some of the closest and most enduring our students will ever make.
Supportive, Family-Friendly Community
Join a welcoming community of Folkestone families who value martial arts training for their children. Our classes create an environment where children encourage each other, celebrate each other’s successes, and build lasting friendships. Parents often tell us the friendships their children make at karate become their closest relationships.
Not Your Average Children’s Karate — This is Kyokushin
Why Kyokushin is different — and why it matters for your child
You may have seen children’s karate classes that feel more like a structured play session — colourful belts handed out freely, soft techniques, and little genuine progression. That’s not what we do.
At Kudos Martial Arts we teach Kyokushin karate — a traditional Japanese full-contact martial art with a global reputation for producing some of the toughest, most technically accomplished martial artists in the world. Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin, built this art on a simple principle: genuine training produces genuine results. We carry that principle into every children’s class.
For children, this means:
- Real skills — techniques that actually work, taught progressively and properly
- Real progression — belts earned through genuine effort and achievement, not attendance
- Real confidence — built on actual accomplishment, not empty praise
- Real discipline — the kind that transfers to school, home, and every area of life
Safer than you might think — smarter than most
Many parents wonder about contact in children’s karate. Here’s what makes Kyokushin genuinely different from other combat sports:
- No repeated blows to the head — Kyokushin rules prohibit face punching, protecting children’s developing brains
- Full body contact when age-appropriate — with proper protective equipment including body armour and head guards
- Progressive introduction — contact work is introduced gradually as children develop technique, control, and readiness
- Full competition option available — children who want to compete can enter full contact knockdown tournaments with comprehensive safety equipment, giving them real competition experience in the safest possible environment
All the toughness, all the development, all the achievement — with a safety-first approach that other combat sports simply don’t match.
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What Your Child Will Learn in Our Sandwich Karate Classes
Our children’s karate program (ages 5-11) follows a comprehensive Kyokushin syllabus designed specifically for young learners. Classes combine traditional discipline with fun, engaging activities that keep children excited about training while building essential skills.
Physical Skills and Fitness
• Traditional karate techniques – punches, kicks, blocks, and stances
• Physical fitness and stamina development
• Flexibility and coordination improvement
• Balance and body control
• Age-appropriate self-defense skills
• Bag work for developing power and accuracy
Mental and Emotional Development
• Improved focus and concentration
• Discipline and self-control
• Confidence building through achievement
• Goal-setting through belt progression
• Awareness and attention to detail
• Respect for instructors and training partners
Character Building
• Listening skills and following instructions
• Perseverance through challenges
• Courage to try new things
• Respect for others and themselves
• Responsibility and commitment
• Positive attitude toward learning
Social Skills
• Making friends with training partners
• Teamwork and mutual support
• Learning to win and lose gracefully
• Communication with instructors and peers
• Being part of a positive community
• Encouraging others’ success
All of this happens in a structured, disciplined yet fun and friendly environment where every child can progress at their own pace while being challenged appropriately for their age and ability.
Lovely Kyokushinkaikan Karate Club. My children have been attending every Saturday for many years. Lovely Senseis and Senpais who support everyone. They pay attention to everyone. I highly recommend them.
E P P
Bringing my kids to this club and later joining them too, has been the best thing I have ever done. The Sensei are patient but at the same strict which is having positive impact on discipline, non competitive environment. The membership fees are very reasonable and affordable.
N D
Everyone is very professional, organised and friendly. Communication is good and prices are reasonable. My son absolutely loves attending his classes and grading.
J T
Success Stories from Our Sandwich Children’s Karate Club
Over 20 years, we’ve helped hundreds of Sandwich and East Kent children achieve remarkable transformations through karate training. The Sandwich club has a proud history of producing dedicated students, black belts, and tournament competitors — but our greatest pride comes from the everyday successes we see:
• Shy children finding their confidence and voice
• Energetic children learning focus and self-control
• Children improving their behavior and concentration at school
• Young students developing genuine friendships and belonging
• Kids achieving goals they never thought possible
• Families growing closer through shared training
One of the most special aspects of our Sandwich club is how naturally families grow together through karate. Children who start with us often inspire their parents to join the adult classes, creating a shared family journey through martial arts that makes the Sandwich club truly unique.
But you don’t need to aspire to competition or black belt to benefit from our classes—every child who trains with us gains valuable skills, confidence, and character that serves them throughout life.
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Sandwich Children’s Karate Class Schedule
Easily accessible from: • Sandwich town centre • Deal • Walmer • Eastry • Ash • Surrounding East Kent villages
TO MAKE YOUR BOOKING – SELECT FROM THE CHOOSE YOUR CLASS LIST BELOW
Sandwich Technology School
Tuesday
6.00pm to 7.00pm
Sandwich Technology School
Main Hall
Deal Road
Sandwich
CT13 0FA
Sandwich Leisure Centre
Friday
6.00pm to 7.00pm
Sandwich Leisure Centre
Dance Studio 1
Dover Road
Sandwich
CT13 0BU
Booking Calendar
Sandwich Technology School
How to Book Your Child’s Class
Our children’s karate classes (ages 5-11) offer excellent value with flexible options.
All new students must book in advance. Simply:
1. Choose your preferred class time from our schedule above
2. Book online through our calendar system
3. Arrive 10 minutes early for your child’s first class
4. Bring your child in comfortable athletic clothing
5. Meet our instructors and get started!
Children’s Karate Class Pricing at
Sandwich Tech
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP (Recommended)
• 1 class per week: £39/month
• 2 classes per week: £60/month
TRIAL CLASS
Not sure if karate is right for your child? Try before you commit!
• One-off trial class: £10
• Experience a full session before any commitment
• Meet our instructors and see our training firsthand
• No obligation to continue
Payment is by bank transfer (BACS) and must be arranged in advance. We’ll provide full details when you book.
We look forward to welcoming your child to our Sandwich karate family!
Booking Calendar
Sandwich Leisure Centre
How to Book Your Child’s Class
Our children’s karate classes (ages 5-11) offer excellent value with flexible options.
All new students must book in advance. Simply:
1. Choose your preferred class time from our schedule above
2. Book online through our calendar system
3. Arrive 10 minutes early for your child’s first class
4. Bring your child in comfortable athletic clothing
5. Meet our instructors and get started!
Children’s Karate Class Pricing at Sandwich Leisure Centre
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP (Recommended)
• 1 class per week: £39/month
• 2 classes per week: £60/month
TRIAL CLASS
Not sure if karate is right for your child? Try before you commit!
• One-off trial class: £10
• Experience a full session before any commitment
• Meet our instructors and see our training firsthand
• No obligation to continue
Payment is by bank transfer (BACS) and must be arranged in advance. We’ll provide full details when you book.
We look forward to welcoming your child to our Sandwich karate family!
Your Child’s First Karate Class in Sandwich
Starting something new can feel daunting for children (and parents!). Here’s what happens at your child’s first class to help you both feel prepared and comfortable.
Before Class
Arrive 10 minutes early so we can welcome you properly. Your child should wear comfortable athletic clothing (t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms or leggings). We train barefoot, so no special shoes needed. Please ensure long hair is tied back and all jewelry is removed for safety.
Meeting the Instructors
Our friendly instructors will greet you and your child, explain how the class works, and answer any questions. They’ll make your child feel welcome and explain what to expect during the session.
During Class (60 minutes)
Classes follow a structured format:
• Warm-up exercises and stretching (10 mins)
• Basic techniques practice – punches, kicks, blocks (20 mins)
• Fun drills and games that teach karate skills (15 mins)
• Partner work or kata (forms) practice (10 mins)
• Cool-down and closing (5 mins)
Your child will work alongside other children their age in a supportive, encouraging environment. Our instructors ensure everyone participates at their own level—there’s no pressure, just encouragement to try their best.
After Class
We’ll check how your child found their first session and answer any questions you have. If your child enjoyed it (and most do!), we can discuss membership options and next steps. There’s absolutely no pressure—you can take time to decide what’s right for your family.
Parents Are Welcome to Watch
We encourage parents to stay and watch, especially for trial classes. All our classes have viewing areas where you can see your child’s progress. Many parents find watching so inspiring that they join our adult classes themselves!
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Expert Instructors Who Understand Children
“At Kudos Martial Arts, you’ll train with some of Kent’s most experienced and dedicated Kyokushin instructors. Our senior teaching team brings decades of combined martial arts experience, advanced black belt qualifications, and a genuine passion for helping students of all ages achieve their goals. Each instructor undergoes continuous professional development, and understands how to make traditional Kyokushin training both challenging and accessible.
Whether you’re a complete beginner taking your first steps in martial arts, a parent looking for quality instruction for your child, or a dedicated student pursuing black belt, our instructors provide expert guidance, individual attention, and the support you need to succeed. They don’t just teach techniques—they mentor, inspire, and create an environment where every student can discover their potential through authentic karate training.”
Our Sandwich club instructors are experienced at working with children aged 5-11. All are DBS checked, safeguarding certified, and trained in age-appropriate teaching methods. They know how to make karate fun and engaging while maintaining the discipline and structure that helps children thrive. Your child will receive expert instruction from teachers who genuinely care about their development.
Shihan Paul
7th Dan Black Belt
I started Kyokushin Karate just over 40 year ago. I am the head instuctor of Kudos Martial Arts and the founder of the IKK International Karate Kyokushinkaikan. My life has been sharing skills and knowledge of Kyokushin Karate to inspire others to be good and strong people.
Shihan Russell
5th Dan Black Belt
I am Shihan Russell Wilson I have over 40 years of experience in karate and martial arts holding 5th Dan in karate along with several additional Dan grade in other styles. I have dedicated my life to developing my own skills and those of others.
Throughout my journey I have taken part and competing in various competitions and served as referee as well as completing a wide range of training courses to further my knowledge. My passion for martial arts is matched by my commitment to teaching others with over 20 years of teaching guiding students of all ages and abilities.
I take great pride in helping students progress from beginners to achieving their 1st Dan. While the achievement belongs to the student i share in their success, confidence the smile on their face and a sense of accomplishment.
Senpai Chris
1st Dan Black Belt
I Started in 2006 after taking my son Marcus for a couple of weeks , loved Jean Claude van damne films so thought I’d give it a go , 20 years later I’m 2nd Dan & going for 3rd this year, been teaching for the last 5 years , it’s great watching the kids develop from the things I teach them & I’ve made some great friends in the IKK , osu 👊
Sensei Mel
3rd Dan Black Belt
I started my Karate journey in 2012 after years of watching my son training. I never thought I would do a grading little alone be able to reach 3rd Dan, Sensei.
I have taught on and off over the years but regularly now at Sandwich. I have competed in few competitions over the years and enjoyed the summer camps. Watching the progression of students is rewarding and being part of their journey is a pleasure.
Kudos is more than a karate club, it is like family with friendships that have lasted for many years. We all share the same passion for martial arts, and I feel privilidged to be a small part of our club.
Shihan Ian
5th Dan Black Belt
I have been training since 2006. The discipline of karate has had a massive impact on my life by developing fitness, confidence, strength and courage. I enjoy teaching karate as I have seen that learning this discipline has a real positive impact on the students’ lives as they learn, develop and improve.
Senpai Geoff
1st Dan Black Belt
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Google Reviews
Read our Google Reviews from our students and families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about martial arts training at Kudos? Here are answers to the most common questions we receive from prospective students and parents. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us directly and we’ll be happy to help.
Martial Arts FAQ Section
What age can my child start karate at your Sandwich club?
Children can start from age 5 at our Sandwich clubs. Both our Tuesday class at Sandwich Technology School and our Friday class at Sandwich Leisure Centre welcome children aged 5-11, with age-appropriate instruction that develops skills, confidence, and character at the right pace for your child.
Does my child need any experience to join?
Not at all! The vast majority of children who join us begin with absolutely no martial arts experience. Our Sandwich instructors are experienced at welcoming complete beginners and will guide your child through everything from the very basics. All that’s needed is a willingness to try — we’ll take care of everything else.
What should my child wear to karate class?
For trial classes and initial sessions, wear comfortable athletic clothing like a t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms for your first few classes. We train barefoot, so no special footwear is needed. Once you join, you can purchase a karate gi (uniform).
Where exactly are the Sandwich classes held?
We have two venues, both on Deal Road in Sandwich. Tuesday classes are at Sandwich Technology School, Deal Road, Sandwich, CT13 0FA. Friday classes are at Sandwich Leisure Centre, Deal Road, Sandwich, CT13 0BU. The two venues are right next to each other, making both easy to find. Both have their own dedicated car parks.
Can I watch my child's karate classes?
Absolutely — parents are always welcome to watch. We actively encourage parents to stay, especially for trial classes, so you can see exactly how your child is getting on. In fact, the Sandwich club has a wonderful tradition of parents being so inspired watching their children that they join the adult classes themselves!
How often should my child attend classes?
We recommend 2 classes per week for consistent progress and skill development. This helps children remember techniques, build fitness, and advance through belt ranks steadily. However, you can choose 1 or 2 classes per week based on your family’s schedule and your child’s other commitments.
Will karate help my child's confidence and behaviour?
Yes — this is one of the most common and rewarding things parents tell us. The structured environment, progressive belt system, and encouraging instructor team combine to build genuine confidence in children. Many parents notice improvements in behaviour at home, concentration at school, and social confidence within just a few weeks of starting.
Is karate safe for children?
Safety is our absolute top priority. All our Sandwich instructors are DBS checked and safeguarding certified. Classes use age-appropriate exercises and controlled partner work with progressive skill development. Children only participate in contact work once they’ve developed proper technique and understanding, always under close instructor supervision.
How do I book my child's trial class?
Simply choose your preferred day and use the booking calendar on this page to select your date — Tuesday at Sandwich Tech or Friday at Sandwich Leisure Centre. All new students must book in advance. Once booked, we’ll confirm your place and send all the information you need for your child’s first class — what to wear, what to expect, and how to find us.
What happens after the trial class if my child wants to continue?
If your child enjoyed the trial and you’re happy with what you saw, we’ll explain membership options and help you get started. We’ll provide details for monthly payment (by bank transfer), arrange for your child’s uniform, and welcome them into our Folkestone karate family. There’s no pressure—take time to discuss it with your child and decide together.
What is the difference between the Tuesday and Friday classes?
Both classes follow exactly the same Kyokushin curriculum and maintain the same high standard of instruction — the only difference is the venue and day. Tuesday classes are held at Sandwich Technology School and Friday classes at Sandwich Leisure Centre. Many families choose based on which day suits their schedule best.