In co-operation with the Disability Sport Wales Development Officer for the Vale of Glamorgan; Rob Copeland became involved in several schools teaching Karate to children and teenagers with disabilities & Special Needs.

These classes were met with an overwhelming response, enjoyed by the children and supported by teachers and support staff.

As a natural progression; Vale Karate has become involved in the curriculum of one school (Rob Copeland regularly teaches as part of the curriculum of Ysgol Maes Dyfan in Barry) and has two extra curricular classes, at Barry YMCA Hub on Tuesdays.

Traditional Karate, taught in the correct way, by an experienced and patient instructor is a fantastic form of training for children with additional needs; added to a comprehensive stretching programme all parts of the body are exercised from practicing the basic blocks, strikes, punches and kicks, with both left and right sides given equal emphasis.

Kihon (the basic techniques) and Kata (the classical forms of set combinations) are explored, though Kumite, the fighting side of Karate is not practiced as yet, as safety is paramount. 

This class; fun, friendly but disciplined is an excellent activity for children and teenagers with disabilities and additional needs. 

We are very proud that we have managed to recruit the assistance of several competition organisers in opening doors for children with special needs and to date The Welsh Bushi-Kai, Imperial Karate club, The Welsh Karate Association and the Welsh Karate-Kai have added 'Special Needs' Kata events to their tournaments. 

The WKGB Welsh Championships and the BKF British Championships have also recently included Special Needs Categories in their Championships!

Call us for a chat and to reserve a place

TUESDAYS

BEGINNERS 6pm, 

MORE ADVANCED 6.45pm.

Barry YMCA Hub.