Junior Champions (Ages 7 - Teen)

Confidence, discipline, resilience and strength with McKinstry Family Karate.

Junior Champions

Ages 7 - Teen

Confidence, discipline, resilience and life skills through Tang Soo Do

Strong bodies. Focused minds. Confident young people.


Our Junior Champions Programme is where children and young teens discover the confidence, discipline, and character that will carry them through school, home, and life.

Designed for ages 7–teen, the programme blends traditional Tang Soo Do with modern coaching to help students grow in both skill and mindset. Every class builds real martial arts fundamentals — strong stances, sharp strikes, forms, pad drills, controlled partner work, and practical self-defence — all delivered in a safe, structured, high-energy environment.

But the real transformation happens beyond technique.

Students learn how to listen, focus, stay calm under pressure, and treat others with respect. They develop courage, perseverance, and a sense of responsibility — the qualities that define our values at McKinstry Family Karate.

Junior Champions is where many of our future leaders begin.
It’s a supportive path that helps young people stand tall, stay disciplined, and discover what they can achieve with the right guidance.

What your child will gain:

  • Improved confidence, focus, and self-belief

  • Traditional Tang Soo Do skills with clear belt goals

  • A positive, bully-aware environment where every child thrives

  • Leadership foundations woven naturally into weekly training

  • A strong sense of respect, responsibility, and community

See what our Junior Champions Parents say

Junior Champions Programme — FAQ Section

What age group is the Junior Champions Programme for?

The programme is designed for children aged 7 through the teenage years. It offers age-appropriate coaching, structure, and challenge for every stage of their development.

Does my child need any previous martial arts experience?

Not at all. The programme is completely beginner-friendly. Many students join with no experience — our instructors guide them step-by-step from the basics to advanced skills at a pace that suits them.

What will my child learn?

Students develop:
• Strong fundamentals in Tang Soo Do
Confidence, focus, and discipline
• Real-world awareness and basic self-defence
• Respect, resilience, and positive character skills
• Improved coordination, fitness, and balance

Every class strengthens both mind and body.

How often can my child attend?

Your membership allows your child to attend all Junior Champions classes each week, giving them plenty of opportunity to practise, progress, and enjoy training.

How long is each class?

Junior Champions sessions are 60 minutes, structured to keep students engaged, active, and progressing.

Is it safe? Are your instructors trained?

Yes — safety is our highest priority.
All instructors are DBS-checked, safeguarding and first aid trained, and qualified through the British Martial Arts & Boxing Association.
We follow strict safety standards, controlled drills, and progressive training appropriate for each age group.

Will my child be sparring?

Yes, but safely and at the right time. Sparring is introduced progressively with protective equipment and instructor supervision. It builds confidence, skill, timing, and respect — never uncontrolled aggression.

How do belt gradings work?

Students earn their belts when they demonstrate readiness across skills, technique, and attitude.
We grade three times per year, giving students plenty of time to prepare and achieve a high standard.

What should my child wear?

New students start in comfortable sports clothing. A free uniform (dobok) and sparring gear is included in the three-month trial programme.

How do we get started?

Simply click Book Your Child’s First Class anywhere on the site, choose the Junior Champions option, and select a day that suits you.
Your child’s first class is an easy introduction — friendly, welcoming, and structured to help them settle in quickly.