Business Details
14 Years
experience
Taekwondo Classes for All Ages in Rottingdean, Brighton
Established in March 2012, DAN Taekwondo School in Rottingdean, Brighton, was founded by Joanna and Simon, former instructors at Vo's 2 Taekwondo School. Following the retirement of Chief Instructor Rachel Innes, we opened DAN Taekwondo to uphold the high standards of teaching and competition success. Our mission is to promote Taekwondo through its martial arts tenets while developing the spirit of every student. With over 30 years of combined experience among our instructors, including national and international competition participation, we offer structured gradings, seminars, and competitions. Our programs focus on physical development, flexibility, self-discipline, and self-defence in a safe environment.Separate classes for children and adults ensure tailored instruction, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and respect. Students receive monthly newsletters, access to a comprehensive online student area, and opportunities to participate in events like photo competitions. We prioritise open communication, with instructors available to discuss training, fitness, or health concerns. Our facilities include free on-site parking and a dedicated training space at Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary School.
Services
Taekwondo Classes
Kids Classes
Adult Classes
Grading Preparation
Self-Defence Training
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- Experienced instructors with 30+ years of combined Taekwondo expertise
- Separate, age-specific classes for children and adults
- Focus on discipline, fitness, and practical self-defence techniques
- Free trial class with no obligation to join
- Flexible belt progression based on individual readiness
Associations and certifications
- World Taekwondo Federation (WTF)
What people say
Supportive instructors
Family-friendly environment
Improved fitness
Visible confidence gains
Fun training atmosphere
Services
Kids Taekwondo Classes
Our kids' Taekwondo classes for ages 6-14 combine physical training with character development. Students improve fitness, flexibility, and self-discipline while learning self-defence techniques. The curriculum includes games for agility and teamwork, with a focus on respect and overcoming challenges. Classes are led by DBS-checked instructors.
Adult Taekwondo Classes
Adult Taekwondo sessions cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Training includes sparring, poomsae (patterns), and fitness drills to enhance strength and flexibility. Classes emphasize practical self-defence applications and mental focus, with opportunities for gradings and competition participation in a supportive environment.
Self-Defence Training
Self-defence instruction teaches effective techniques for real-world scenarios. Students learn to assess threats, de-escalate situations, and apply physical responses safely. Training includes situational awareness, striking techniques, and defensive blocks, suitable for all ages and fitness levels seeking personal safety skills.
Grading Preparation
Our grading preparation program follows a structured syllabus for belt progression from white to black belt. Students master poomsae (forms), sparring techniques, and theoretical knowledge required for each rank. Instructors provide individual feedback to ensure students progress at their own pace with confidence.
Fitness Training
Taekwondo-based fitness sessions improve cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility. Classes incorporate dynamic warm-ups, technical drills, and high-intensity intervals to build endurance. Training adapts to individual goals, whether weight loss, muscle toning, or enhancing athletic performance through martial arts principles.
People
Simon Pattenden
Chief Instructor
With over 15 years of Taekwondo experience, Simon Pattenden leads DAN Taekwondo School. He competed nationally in poomsae and sparring, holds a Level 2 coaching qualification, and has trained under Grand Masters across the UK. His teaching focuses on technical precision and student development.
Joanna Janse van Vuuren
Senior Instructor
Joanna Janse van Vuuren, a DBS-verified instructor, brings 12 years of competitive Taekwondo experience. She specialises in children's classes, fostering confidence and discipline through structured training. Her expertise includes first aid and adaptive teaching methods for diverse learning needs.
Chris
Instructor
Chris, a qualified black belt instructor, contributes 8 years of practical Taekwondo experience. He focuses on adult classes and competition preparation, with a background in sparring techniques and tournament judging. His approach combines traditional martial arts values with modern fitness training.
Questions
Do you offer free trial classes?
Yes, we provide a free trial class for all newcomers. No prior experience is required, and you can join at any fitness level.
What age groups do you cater for?
We teach children aged 6+ and adults. Separate classes ensure age-appropriate instruction, with family discounts available for multiple participants.
What benefits does Taekwondo offer?
Taekwondo improves physical fitness, flexibility, and self-defence skills. It also builds confidence, discipline, and mental focus through structured training and goal-setting.
Are instructors qualified?
All instructors hold black belts, Level 2 coaching certifications, and DBS checks. They have competed nationally and trained under experienced masters.
Where are classes held?
Classes take place at Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary School in Rottingdean, Brighton. Free parking is available during training hours.
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