With saddened hearts, we remember our shihan, teacher, mentor and friend who passed away in the early hours of the 30th September 2024.
John Howell Sensei, Kyoshi 7th dan, holder of the All Japan Kendo Federation Korosho, former President and Chairman of the British Kendo Association, senior Councillor of the European Kendo Federation, over 55 years involved in Kendo, helping to shape the landscape of British Kendo, and teacher and friend to many people – he will be heavily missed.
WHAT IS KENDO
Kendo is the Japanese art of fencing and was how the samurai improved and maintained their fighting skills during 250 years of peace. The study develops one's spirit, fencing skills, discipline, manners, social values, etiquette, confidence and fair play – as well as developing a competitive and considerate attitude towards others and society.
Recognising this cultural heritage, we teach Kendo using traditional and modern methods.
KENDO STARTS WITH RESPECT, AND ENDS WITH RESPECT
Tsubaki Kendo Club teaches kendo as governed by the British Kendo Association –
part of the International and European Kendo Fedration (FIK/EKF) and overseen by the parent organisation,
the Zen Nihon Kendo Remnei of Japan (ZNKR/AJKF).
Sunday: The main class for all members and visitors at all levels.
Friday: Keiko session for all those using armour.
Club instructors have many years training in Japan, UK and Europe.
We are proud to have students on the GB National Team, and GB Team hopefuls;
and the club is grateful for the links with high level Japanese teachers and
Japanese National Team elite players.
The Junior Academy is for under 18s. Juniors receive specific classes targeting their ability levels and have dedicated coaches. The Academy is where we prepare juniors to be the leading Kendo players of the future.
An 4 Week Beginners Course runs once a year and is the ONLY way we accept new inexperienced members into the club from 13 years old upwards.
If you are interested in kendo, please get in touch.
Those under 13 are automatically accepted into the Junior Academy class, so please visit the page.
WHEN & WHERE
SUNDAYS – 10:30-12:30 (all levels and ages)
FRIDAYS – 20:30-21:30 (armoured Juniors over 15 and Adults)
Carshalton High School for Girls (CHSG), West Street, Carshalton SM5 2QX, UK
FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN
FROM 6 TO 60+ YEARS OLD –
IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO START KENDO
COVID REQUIREMENTS
As part of our ongoing Covid requirements, all attendees MUST be wearing a men shield
(a half shield is the minimum) during practice.
UK and Overseas experienced Kendo players are always welcome.
If it's your first time to visit us, please contact us before coming.
JOINING & COSTS
Tsubaki fees are paid in advance and monthly by members, or by the class for non-members only.
On joining, you'll be asked to setup a Standing Order.
You must also join the British Kendo Association (BKA) via their online membership page.
They are the governing body, part of the EKF/FIK and the main All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF).
Adult Members (18+)
One off joining fee : £30
Fee DOES NOT include BKA membership
Adults (18+) monthly fee : £39
5th Dan and over members : FREE
Junior Academy (U18s)
One off joining fee : £30
Fee DOES NOT include BKA membership
Junior Academy monthly fee : £28
Visitors (all ages)
Sunday : Adults £10 per class
Sunday : Juniors £8 per class
Friday : £8 per class
5th Dan and over : FREE
Club member gradings: Free of charge and start from 7th Kyu up to 2nd Kyu.
National BKA gradings: These have a fee and are taken on specified days throughout the country – 1st Kyu to 5th Dan grades.
International gradings (AJKF and EKF/FIK): To grade overseas (including 6th and 7th dan),
permission must be sought from the BKA's Director of International Affairs – internationalaffairs@britishkendoassociation.com
You will eventually need to buy your own shinai, bokuto (bokken), a dark blue Kendo-gi (jacket) and hakama (bottoms).
In time and at the discretion of the instructors, you will be asked to purchase and use Kendo armour (Bogu).
Please wait until you are asked to do so.
BKA and Tsubaki membership fees must always be up-to-date.
NO BKA MEMBERSHIP MEANS NO INSURANCE, SO NO PRACTICE.
