Business Details
33 Years
experience
Westwood Karate Academy | Traditional Karate in Leigh-on-Sea
Westwood Karate Academy was founded in 1993 by Alan and Carol Parrish to teach traditional Shotokan Karate to the highest standards. Based in Leigh-on-Sea, we operate six venues across the region, offering classes for children aged four and above, as well as adults. Our instructors hold black belts from 4th to 7th dan, with decades of competitive and teaching experience, including international championship wins and squad coaching roles.We provide structured training seven days a week, with regular gradings, private tuition, and access to national/international competitions. Our affiliations with Traditional Shotokan Karate UK and the World Union of Karate Federations ensure members receive licensed, insured instruction. All staff undergo DBS checks and first-aid training, maintaining a family-friendly environment focused on character development through martial arts.
Services
Karate Classes
Private Tuition
Competition Training
Belt Gradings
Family Sessions
After-School Clubs
Seminars
Equipment Sales
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- Instructors with 4th-7th dan black belts and decades of competitive experience
- Seven-day training schedule with 15+ classes weekly across six venues
- Free four-week trial with no obligation to join
- Family-friendly environment with simultaneous children's and adult classes
- Competitive pricing from 30/month with flexible attendance options
Associations and certifications
- Traditional Shotokan Karate UK
- World Union of Karate Federations
What people say
Brilliant club
Patient instructors
Great family environment
Visible progress
Excellent coaches
Services
Shotokan Karate Classes
Traditional Shotokan Karate instruction for ages four and above. Classes focus on kata (forms), kihon (basics), and kumite (sparring). Family-friendly environment with simultaneous children's and adult sessions. Seven-day schedule with 15+ weekly classes across six venues.
Private Tuition
Personalised one-to-one karate lessons at our Honbu Dojo. Tailored sessions for new members, competition preparation, or supplementary training. Available at 25 per session with qualified black belt instructors.
Belt Gradings
Regular belt progression opportunities from white to black belt. Structured syllabus aligned with Traditional Shotokan Karate UK standards. Includes technical assessments and character development evaluation.
Competition Training
Elite coaching for national and international competition. Squad training for kumite and kata events. Former champions and England squad coaches provide expert guidance for tournament preparation.
After-School Clubs
Partnership programs with eight local schools. After-school karate sessions for pupils aged four to 16. Focuses on discipline, fitness, and confidence-building within school environments.
People
Alan Parrish
Chief Instructor
7th dan black belt with 50 years' experience. Former England squad coach and international competitor. Trained under Japanese masters at London's Marshall Street dojo. Joint chief instructor of Traditional Shotokan Karate UK.
Carol Parrish
Senior Instructor
4th dan black belt with 35 years' teaching experience. Multiple national and international championship medalist. Co-founder of Westwood Karate Academy and former senior instructor of Traditional Shotokan Karate UK.
Charlie Tarr
Professional Instructor
5th dan black belt with 25 years' experience. World Traditional Karate Organisation squad member. Gold medalist at 2016 European Championships and 2018 WTKO International Competition. Qualified instructor since 2012.
Mason Gill
Instructor
4th dan black belt with 20 years' competition experience. Three-time World Championship medalist including 2011 kumite gold. WUKF European Kumite Champion and qualified instructor since 2016.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We teach children from four years old and adults of all ages.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear loose clothing like a T-shirt and jogging bottoms. Train barefoot.
Do I need prior fitness experience?
No prior fitness required. Karate training develops fitness progressively.
Are there competition opportunities?
Yes, we offer competition training and participate in national/international events.
Can I watch my child's class?
Parents are welcome to observe sessions at all our venues.
What payment options are available?
Monthly memberships from £30 with flexible attendance options.
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