Kent Karate Schools

22/05/2026

The Kent Karate Schools chief instructor, The Reverend Joe Ellis (8th Dan/Hanshi)…

FROM DOJO TO DIVINE: A PRIESTS JOURNEY IN COMBATING BULLYING

Determining the most effective strategy to combat bullying involves considering both physical and moral dimensions.

As a senior karate 8th Dan black belt within a full contact karate style, it represents advanced proficiency in martial arts, suggesting not only formidable self-defence capabilities but also qualities such as discipline, confidence, and the ability to defuse confrontations through non-violent means when appropriate. Occasionally, however, a violent response would also be appropriate.

On the other hand, an ordained priest embodies profound ethical influence and moral authority, potentially offering a different approach by fostering dialogue grounded in empathy and encouraging reconciliation through compassion and guidance rooted in spiritual teachings. Both paths are valuable; mastery in martial arts can empower individuals physically and mentally, while spiritual leadership can catalyse transformative discussions about conduct and ethics.

Ideally, integrating physical readiness with moral courage creates a balanced strategy: one that empowers individuals to protect themselves physically if necessary while promoting broader cultural shifts toward kindness and understanding that address the roots of bullying behaviour.

From my personal experience, during my early days as a black belt, I found myself in serious trouble when I confronted bullies physically, regardless of their background. However, 45 years later, I was ordained as a priest. Hand on heart, I can say that both karate and the priesthood combined are a powerful combination at seeing off bullies.

The dual path of priesthood and karate embodies a profound truth: mastery is not merely in the techniques we wield, but in the compassion we share.

—Rev Fr. Joe Ellis

Taken from the blog via https://revjoeellis.church/blog

10/05/2026

JOSHUA TRAYLOR

Joshua Traylor was promoted to 5th Dan (Shihan) by the NAKMAS National Management Committee today after a formal assessment and audit.

Everyone at the Kent Karate Schools congratulates Joshua, and we are incredibly proud of him.

www.kentkarateschools.co.uk

30/03/2026

CHILDREN’S CLASSES AT KINGSMEAD EVERY SATURDAY 9AM UNTIL 10AM

KENT KARATE SCHOOLS: FOUR DECADES OF DISCIPLINE AND TRADITION

Kent Karate Schools has long been at the forefront of promoting not only self-defence and martial arts proficiency but also a strong ethos of inclusivity, particularly regarding autism and anti-bullying initiatives.

Since its inception in 1983, the schools have cultivated an environment where expert nationally registered instructors leverage the disciplined art of karate to empower students, instilling confidence and resilience. Their comprehensive curriculum is tailored to accommodate individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring that each student receives personalised attention that respects their unique abilities and needs.

By integrating structured routines with empathetic mentorship, Kent Karate Schools actively combat bullying by educating students on respect, empathy, and non-violence principles. This holistic approach underscores their commitment to social responsibility within communities, making them more than just martial arts institutions—essentially leading figures in community well-being and individual growth through strategic partnerships with parents and national and local educational institutions.

In the heart of martial arts excellence since 1983, Kent Karate Schools stands as a beacon of leadership and skill.

www.kentkarateschools.co.uk

08/03/2026

27/02/2026

† PHIL HADDEN

Yesterday's funeral for Phil was a sobering experience.

It was packed; all seats were filled, and people were standing in a lovely church in Broadstairs, Kent, remembering with much love and emotion the man they called husband, dad, granddad, brother, and friend.

It was deeply touching and very emotional, but Phil would have been proud of his family yesterday as he clearly was in real life.

Phil was so very supportive of me and Sandra back in my twenties. He supported us as friends and helped us through some very hard times. He was able to work things out with care and love, and I regret not properly thanking him for all the support he gave us both those many years ago while he was alive. The regret will remain with me until the end.

Phil was so generous to let us be at the hospital when his daughter was born. Both Sandra and I will never forget those emotions that Phil and we had and the joy of a child being born, a daughter, whom he loved so very much.

Phil was a person who everyone loved and liked. Supported by his lovely and adoring wife, Mandie, they both had wonderful, beautiful children brought up with much love and support, which clearly shows and is evident today.

Yes, Phil was a talented karateka and a true martial artist, but most importantly, he was a kind, loving, and very affectionate human being, as many people will confirm.

To Mandie, you will miss your husband dearly, as will all your family and friends. But I give you and your family a promise. I will always be here for you all. Whatever support you need now and in the distant future, I’m here for you, hand on heart.

Yes, we will all remember Phil in our own way. Both Sandra and I will always be so very grateful for knowing Phil and Mandie and for the cherished memories we have of their children.

A great man like Phil leaves an indelible mark; may his journey beyond be filled with the love he so generously shared.

Rest in peace, Phil. You left a wonderful legacy, and I will never forget you.

Joe x

(Photo shows Phil)

27/02/2026

Old video of Hanshi Rev Joe Ellis teaching in Wiltshire when he was the National Chair of TABKO (The All British Karate Organisation).

Source: Peter Manning 8th Dan/

29/01/2026

† PHIL HADDEN

It is with much sadness that I am announcing the passing of a former senior student and coach of the Kent Karate Schools, Phil Hadden, as seen in the photo with me.

Phil was a person of high moral worth and was a great supporter of me and Sandra.

The news has come as a shock to both Sandra and me. We have fond memories of Phil, his wife of 45 years, Mandie, and his beautiful children.

My prayers and deepest thoughts are with Mandie, his children and friends right now.

The Reverend Joe Ellis
(8th Dan/ Hanshi)
Chief Instructor

18/01/2026

Our chief instructor, The Reverend Joe Ellis (8th Dan/Hanshi)…

I am uncertain whether it is appropriate to wear a karate gi as a substitute for an alb while it is being cleansed. Both are white. I'm certain that my bishop will have something to say about it..!

www.revjoeellis.church

17/01/2026

We offer two adult, nationally recognised karate classes: one in Canterbury on Wednesday evenings and another at Draper Mill’s Primary Academy on Fridays from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

Full information is available on our secure website at https://kentkarateschools.co.uk