We were thrilled to welcome Year 6 students from Holy Trinity Primary School in Ripon to The Karate Dojo over the past few weeks as part of our Karate for Schools initiative. Across three consecutive Fridays, nearly 60 pupils took part in dynamic and engaging PE sessions – replacing the usual team sports with something a little different: karate.
Led by Sensei Ady Gray, these sessions aimed to broaden the sporting experiences of the children by introducing them to martial arts – a discipline that focuses on individual growth within a group setting. For many of the children, it was their first time trying karate, and they rose to the challenge with impressive focus, respect, and energy.
“A big percentage of children do not enjoy team games. Karate gives them the chance to shine individually while still feeling part of something,” said Sensei Ady.
“It was amazing to see how hard they worked and how much they improved in such a short time.”
The students not only learnt karate techniques but also important life lessons in self-discipline, perseverance, and focus. The atmosphere in the dojo was electric—filled with enthusiasm, determination, and plenty of smiles. The students’ behaviour was outstanding and they represented Holy Trinity with pride.
We’re incredibly grateful to Mrs Knight and the staff at Holy Trinity for supporting this venture and recognising the value in giving their pupils a new and meaningful experience.
To quote the students themselves, their feedback was heartfelt and full of gratitude:
“Arigato for teaching us! You could have got £1,000 but instead you gave us it for free. This for our class means a lot.” – Oscar
“Thank you for the best 3 lessons of karate. We enjoyed it so much!” – Miles
“The karate lessons were great. I really loved them – and so did everyone else, especially as we got a mini school trip around town!”
“Thank you for teaching us karate! I love your enthusiasm. You are a kind and caring person.”
S: Super fun
E: Enjoyable
N: Never bored
S: Sensible
E: Enthusiastic
I: Incredible
A: Awesome
D: Dojo
Y: Yes dude!
“You make learning so fun! I do karate already, but you’re the best karate teacher I know!”
“Thank you, Ady, for letting us train with you in your amazing dojo. You helped me dive back into karate!” – Harry
“Thanks for a wonderful time. All of our class had a ‘wonderos’ time. You truly are a great person.”
“To Ady (the best Sensei of karate): Thank you (Arigato) for letting us do karate with you. The art of karate is amazing. Thank you for teaching us.”
The sessions also marked a special milestone for Sensei Ady, who is proudly celebrating 30 years of teaching karate in Ripon this year. It was a perfect way to share that passion and legacy with the next generation.
We’d like to extend a warm invitation to any students from Holy Trinity who’d like to continue their karate journey – you are always welcome at The Karate Dojo.
And finally, if you’re a teacher or parent interested in providing your school with a similar opportunity, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to partner with more schools to help students discover the many benefits of karate.
