Children’s Karate Classes in Folkestone TUESDAY
Kudos Martial Arts and Karate at Folkestone
More than martial arts – we develop confidence, discipline and
character for life through karate TUESDAY
About the Folkestone Club
For ages 5 to 10 years old.
Looking for quality karate classes for your child in Folkestone? Kudos Martial Arts Folkestone has been teaching children traditional Kyokushin karate for over 25 years. Founded by Shihan Paul Sarginson, our club has built a reputation as Folkestone’s premier martial arts school for children, helping hundreds of young students develop confidence, discipline, and essential life skills through expert karate instruction.
Our children’s classes (ages 5-11) take place at Martello Primary School in the heart of Folkestone, providing a safe, professional environment where your child can learn, grow, and thrive. With experienced instructors, a proven curriculum, and a supportive community of families, we offer everything your child needs to succeed in their martial arts journey.
Serving Folkestone and surrounding areas including Hythe, Hawkinge, Cheriton, Capel, Sandgate, and Seabrook, we make quality children’s karate training accessible and convenient for local families.
Why Parents Choose Our Folkestone Children’s Karate Classes
Over 25 Years of Excellence in Teaching Children
Since our founding, we’ve specialized in bringing out the best in young students. Our Folkestone club has produced countless confident, disciplined children who’ve gone on to achieve black belt grades, compete successfully in tournaments, and most importantly, carry the life skills learned through karate into every aspect of their lives. When you choose our children’s karate classes, you’re choosing a proven track record of success.
Expert Instructors Who Understand Children
Our Folkestone 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.
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 colored belt system, teaching children to set targets, work hard, and achieve genuine accomplishments. This builds real confidence based on actual achievement.
Perfect Folkestone Location with Easy Access
Our classes take place at Martello Primary School on Warren Way (CT19 6DT), a spacious, light, and airy facility in central Folkestone with its own car park. Getting to class and parking is never an issue. We’re easily accessible from Folkestone town center and surrounding areas including Hythe, Hawkinge, Cheriton, Capel, Sandgate, and Seabrook.
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.
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What Your Child Will Learn in Our Folkestone 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 Folkestone Children’s Karate Club
Over 25 years, we’ve helped hundreds of Folkestone children achieve remarkable transformations through karate training. Our club has produced many black belts, instructors, and tournament champions—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
The Folkestone club is supported by many dedicated brown and black belts who train regularly, providing excellent role models for younger students. We’re home to both junior and adult knockdown fighters, showing children what’s possible when they commit to their training.
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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Folkestone Children’s Karate Class Schedule
Easily accessible from: • Folkestone town center • Hythe and surrounding areas • Hawkinge • Cheriton • Capel-le-Ferne • Sandgate • Seabrook
Our training facility is a large, light, and airy main hall with excellent lighting—perfect for karate training. The school staff support our club fully, and the venue features its own car park making drop-off and collection straightforward for busy parents.
Martello Primary School
Monday 6.00pm to 7.00pm
Main School Hall
Warren Way
Folkestone
CT19 6DT
Martello Primary School
Thursday 6.00pm to 7.00pm
Main School Hall
Warren Way
Folkestone
CT19 6DT
Martello Primary School
Train alongside your child in our popular family session
Saturday 10.00am to 11.00am
Main School Hall
Warren Way
Folkestone
CT19 6DT
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Booking Calendar
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 in Folkestone
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 Folkestone karate family!
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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 Folkestone 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
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Shihan Bob
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Sensei Andy
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Sensei Mark
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Sensei Nisia
Shihan Bob
Sensei Toby
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Sensei Jon
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Senpai Phi
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Senpai Glenys
Shihan Bob
Senpai Gemma
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Google Reviews
Read our Google Reviews from our students and families.
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What to Expect at Your Child’s First Karate Class in Folkestone
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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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 Folkestone club?
Children can start from age 5 in our children’s classes. We teach ages 5-11 together in dedicated sessions designed for primary school children. If your child is 11+ and showing advanced ability, they may be able to join our youth and adult classes with instructor approval.
Does my child need any experience to join?
Not at all! Most children who join our Folkestone club have never done karate before. Our instructors are experienced at teaching complete beginners and will guide your child through every step. We adapt exercises to each child’s current ability and help them progress at their own pace.
What should my child wear to karate class?
For trial classes and initial sessions, comfortable athletic clothing (t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms or leggings) is perfect. We train barefoot, so no special footwear is needed. Once your child becomes a member, they’ll receive a karate gi (uniform) which they’ll wear to all future classes.
Where exactly in Folkestone are the classes held?
Classes take place at Martello Primary School, Warren Way, Folkestone CT19 6DT. We train in the main hall—a large, spacious facility with excellent lighting. The school has its own car park, making drop-off and collection easy. We’re centrally located with good access from Folkestone, Hythe, Hawkinge, Cheriton, and surrounding areas.
Can I watch my child's karate classes?
Yes, absolutely! We encourage parents to watch, especially for trial classes. You can observe from the viewing area and see exactly what your child is learning and how much fun they’re having. Many parents tell us watching their child’s progress is one of the highlights of their week!
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 benefits parents report. The structured environment, achievement through belt progression, physical mastery, and supportive community all contribute to building genuine confidence. Parents consistently tell us they see improvements in their child’s behavior at home, focus at school, and overall self-belief.
Is karate safe for children?
Safety is our absolute priority. All instructors are DBS checked and safeguarding certified. We use age-appropriate techniques, controlled partner work, and close supervision. Children learn proper control before any contact work, and all training progresses gradually. Minor bumps occasionally happen (as with any physical activity), but serious injuries are very rare.
How do I book my child's trial class?
Booking is easy! All new students must book in advance through our online calendar system [link]. Simply select your preferred class time, complete the booking form, and we’ll confirm your child’s trial session. The trial class costs £10 and gives your child a full experience of our training with no obligation to continue.
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.