Judo classes for every pupil
Every year group from Year 7 to Year 13 has judo within PE, and adaptive judo sessions run each week so that every pupil, including those with SEND, can take part.
Judo builds technical precision and body control, and our coaching places equal weight on respect and self-confidence. Whether a pupil is stepping onto the mat for the first time or already competing, they train in a supportive environment at their own level.
Coached by a Level 5 British Judo Association coach
Pupils train in our purpose-built school dojo, where the Judo Academy runs a full training programme throughout the week.
Simon Ward
Level 5 British Judo Association Coach, one of only 12 in England, with the International Judo Federation Academy Instructor Award and an MSc in Advanced Sports Performance Coaching from Sheffield Hallam University. Simon has coached 19 judoka to National Judo Titles, led the England U18 team to victory at the 2017 UK School Games and serves as a Great Britain Support coach for the National Team.
A clear route from first contest to national arenas
The competition calendar runs through all three terms, from novice events for red and yellow belts to national championships. Kingsley judoka have won 25 British National Schools' Judo Championships.
The Peninsula Independent Schools Judo League, over three rounds
The Grand Prix Schools League
The British National Judo Championships and the British Nationals Schools Judo Finals in Sheffield
Home Nations tournaments, including the Welsh, English and Northern Ireland Opens
Kingsley's own Novices Tournament and West Country Green Belt & Below Open
A route to the University of Bath through DiSE
Kingsley provides a pathway to the University of Bath for Sixth Form judoka through the DiSE (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) programme.
Judoka can also join the ACE Programme (Athlete Centred Education), which adds strength and conditioning, nutrition, sports psychology and video analysis to their training.
A community judo club on our Devon campus
Kingsley's dojo is home to a community judo club, and each August the school hosts the John Davies Western Area & England International Judo Summer Training Camp.
Active Start for under 8s and Fundamentals for under 12s, on Monday and Thursday evenings
A combined Development and Advanced Squad session, and recreational judo for adults
Technical work and randori in the dojo
Scholarships for talented judoka
Generous judo scholarships are available, including for Sixth Form students, and Sports Scholars join the ACE Programme for extra support alongside their training. To find out whether your child could qualify, see the judo scholarship page or speak with our Admissions team.
Frequently asked questions
Can pupils with SEND take part in judo?
Yes. Judo is part of the PE curriculum for every year group from Year 7 to Year 13, and adaptive judo sessions run each week. Our coaches adapt training so that pupils with SEND can take part safely and enjoy the sport at their own level.
Do you need experience to start judo?
No. Beginners and experienced judoka are both welcome, and every pupil has judo within PE. The community club runs Active Start for under 8s and Fundamentals for under 12s, and the Kingsley Novices Tournament gives red and yellow belts their first experience of competition.
What competitions and pathways are available?
Judoka compete in the Peninsula Independent Schools Judo League, the Grand Prix Schools League, Home Nations tournaments, the British National Judo Championships and the British Nationals Schools Judo Finals. Sixth Form judoka can follow the DiSE programme, which provides a pathway to the University of Bath.
Are there judo scholarships?
Yes. Kingsley offers generous judo scholarships, including for Sixth Form students, and scholars join the ACE Programme for extra athlete support. Contact our Admissions team to find out about eligibility and how to apply.
Northdown Road, Bideford