Martial Arts Instructors – DBS Checked Experts, St. Helens
The Martial Arts Academy has passionate martial arts instructors in St. Helens. Safeguarding accreditation. Over 25 years of experience.
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Child-Friendly
DBS-Checked
Years Of Experience
Meet Adam Leahy - Safeguarding Lead
We admire Adam’s lifelong dedication to martial arts, a journey spanning over two decades. His 5th Dan black belt in Atemi Jitsu represents more than technical mastery; it reflects the discipline, perseverance, and respect that shape his character. With additional grades in Judo and Taekwondo, Adam brings a broad and balanced perspective, enriched by continuous learning across many styles. As a teacher, he nurtures confidence and well-being, ensuring every student feels supported. We value his vision of creating an environment where martial arts extend beyond physical skill, guiding others toward resilience, personal growth, and lifelong respect. Get in touch for more details regarding our services.
Meet Logan Burton
We have witnessed Logan’s incredible transformation since he first stepped onto the mats in 2017. Within just two years, his unwavering dedication earned him a black belt, a milestone that quickly led him to teaching by 2021. Atemi Jitsu remains his core art, but Logan’s passion for learning has taken him through Muay Thai, BJJ, and Judo, giving him a rich and adaptable approach to teaching. We are inspired by his ability to connect with students, instilling not only technical skills but also discipline and self-discovery. Logan shows us that commitment and perseverance can unlock extraordinary achievements.
Meet Daz Thompson
We’ve shared in Daz’s remarkable martial arts journey that began over a decade ago alongside his daughter. From karate to achieving 2nd Dan, his story expanded into Iaido, ninjitsu, aikido, krav maga, Ju Jutsu, and Wing Chun. His love for kobudo introduced him to traditional weapons, while his curiosity even reached into medieval sword techniques. Through these experiences, Daz discovered lessons in discipline, resilience, and respect. As an instructor, he creates a positive and encouraging space, guiding students to grow both in skill and character. We appreciate his passion for sharing knowledge and inspiring others to achieve their finest.
Meet Dave Briars
We are fortunate to have Dave, whose martial arts path spans over 35 years of training, teaching, and coaching. Beginning with Judo and Sport Kung Fu, his search for practical effectiveness led him into the Royal Marines at 18, where he earned his Green Beret and trained worldwide. His career included close protection work and qualifications in personal training, blending physical fitness with real-world self-defence. Dave’s teaching in Combatives is direct, effective, and realistic, but always delivered in a supportive environment. We appreciate his ability to balance the serious nature of combat skills with a friendly and approachable style.
Meet John Brett
We have learned so much from John, whose martial arts story spans more than 40 years. Starting with Kyokushinkai Karate at age 8, he developed a solid foundation before exploring Aikido, sword skills, and Japanese arts under respected teachers. His career in security sharpened his practical knowledge, while his time in Kickboxing and Vale Tudo deepened his breadth of experience. After an injury ended competitive training, he rediscovered his passion through teaching. John embodies resilience, adaptability, and dedication, showing us that martial arts is not just about technique but about a lifelong journey of growth, wisdom, and personal evolution.
Meet Angel Thompson
We admire Angel’s incredible journey, starting at age 5 with Karate Jutsu and Kubudo. Earning her junior black belt by 8, she began helping in children’s classes, discovering her love for teaching. She has worked through multiple martial arts achievements, including a full black belt in Atemi Jitsu, proving her determination and resilience. Angel inspires us with her ability to transform challenges into strength, showing young students that confidence and courage grow with effort. We are proud to see her passion continue to flourish, and her role as an instructor brings encouragement, positivity, and motivation to everyone she teaches.
Meet Sophie Hammill
We are inspired by Sophie’s journey into martial arts, which began six years ago and quickly became a defining passion. Finding her place in Atemi Jitsu, she discovered more than self-defence—it taught her patience, respect, and resilience. The dojo became a second home, where she built friendships and pushed herself to new levels. Recently, Sophie embraced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, enjoying its balance of strategy and physical challenge. Her energy, dedication, and love for continuous learning shine through in every class. We value the positivity she brings, reminding us that martial arts is about both community and personal growth.
Meet Josh Gee
We’ve watched Josh grow from a young beginner at age 7 into a dedicated and accomplished martial artist. Atemi Jitsu captured his heart early on, and through years of commitment, he proudly earned his 1st Dan in 2022. His willingness to push beyond comfort zones led him into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where he embraces the excitement of new challenges. For Josh, training is about more than belts; it’s about progress, laughter, and resilience. We are inspired by his enthusiasm and courage to keep learning, proving that martial arts is a lifelong journey filled with discovery, growth, and personal achievement.
Meet Our Junior Instructors
We take pride in supporting our Junior Instructors, who play a vital role in both their own growth and in inspiring others. These young leaders step forward to help guide classes, offering relatable role models for younger students. Their involvement fosters responsibility, builds leadership skills, and strengthens their confidence. We are proud to see them take on teaching roles, as it reinforces the lessons of discipline and perseverance they have learned themselves. Through their example, we see how martial arts develops not only skilled practitioners but also future leaders who can motivate and encourage their peers with pride.
Recently changed to here for PT sessions with Adam, absolutely the best decision I've made, highly recommend here, patient, understanding, knowledgeable. I truly look forward to my sessions here. Very good value for money if you're looking for a personal trainer, please look here for your mental health and fitness goals. I go for mental health it's a bonus staying active also, if you're suffering from mental health, exercise is the best medicine.
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