Community

Family run karate club building confidence in local kids

Karate champion Shannon Rex runs local classes for kids, giving them self defence skills and keeping them off the streets.

A group of kids in karate suits
Karate students at Rex Shotokan Karate Club

REX SHOTOKAN KARATE began in February 2022, with one class per week and eventually expanded to four classes per week. With over 60 kids attending their sessions weekly, their goal is to give them self-defence, discipline, confidence, and fitness while having fun.

The club is a family-run company, and everyone in the family has a passion for Shotokan Karate. The classes’ head teacher had desired to be a karate teacher since she was five years old, when she began karate, and has been practising for 17 years, becoming a two-time European champion in the process. She wants to pass on her knowledge, give back to her community, teach the next generation about the heritage of a traditional sport, and pass on the skills and discipline that karate taught her to use in all aspects of life that will benefit the children she teaches.

As a family-run club, they strive to provide a welcoming environment in which children can safely practice martial arts. Sempai Terry is one of the members who works there; he assists parents with questions and assists the head teacher in helping some of the students who are having difficulty learning new techniques and keeping them motivated to keep trying. He has over 13 years of martial arts experience. Lisa who works at the desk, helps parents order uniforms and answers questions that anyone may have. Head teacher, Sensei Shannon, a 3rd degree black belt, has 17 years of experience and 8 years of teaching experience, as well as being a two times European Champion, among other titles. She teaches all of the classes and seeks to produce students with a high level of respect for others and the sport, as well as the true spirit of martial arts.

a group of kids in karate suits having a lesson
A karate class in session

To join call 07308 474334 or email [email protected] to book a free trial, with no previous experience needed. Once the trial has been completed, you are welcome to come to any of the classes.

Classes are £7 a class; per child and there is a pay as you go system.

Monday –
Aged 5-7 class – 4.30 to 5.30pm
Aged 8+ class – 5.30 to 6.30pm
Jean Stokes Community Centre, N1 0DX.


Tuesday –
Aged 5+ – 4.30 to 5.30pm
Goodinge Community Centre, N7 9EW.


Thursday –
Aged 5+ – 4.30 to 5.30pm
Goodinge Community Centre, N7 9EW.

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