5 months attended 2nd Oct 2006—15th March 07

Stuart Masterson

I have enjoyed my time at the academy immersely, and feel that I have learnt a lot in the time I’ve been here, both about martial arts and myself.
The atmosphere in the school is terrific; everyone gets on very well and the more experienced students are always helping the newer students with their learning. All of this together leads the group a real sense of family, which is very important when you are so far away from home. It has been very interesting to meet people from so many different countries, something that might not have experienced if I hadn’t come here.
In the time I’ve been at the academy, I’ve been taught by all of the masters for at least a short period of time, and all are excellent; the high level of skill they have in their various disciplines commands instant respect from the students.
The gradings are an excellent incentive for ensuring that forms are learnt to a high standard. The atmosphere at the gradings is fantastic, with everyone supporting each of the students being tested. It also provides a good opportunity to see what the other students are learning and to see forms performed by the masters.
Concerning the staff at the academy, all of them seem to do an excellent job; the kitchen staff are always cheerful and try to cater for our needs, such as providing extra dishes and more bread. The translators do a fantastic job and are always willing to make phone calls on our behalf or are at hand when we want to talk to the masters.