About St Martins Junior Karate Club
Friendly, inclusive karate training for children and families in the Lancaster area.
A welcoming place to learn karate
St Martins Junior Karate Club provides friendly, structured karate classes where children can develop confidence, fitness, discipline and practical skills at their own pace. We welcome complete beginners as well as children with previous martial arts experience.
What makes our club different
We aim to create a positive environment where children feel supported, encouraged and able to progress at a pace that suits them.
Supportive teaching
Our instructors create a calm, encouraging environment where children can ask questions, build skills and learn without unnecessary pressure.
Progress at every pace
Every child develops differently. We help students work towards clear goals while recognising individual confidence, ability and experience.
Confidence beyond karate
Karate can support concentration, resilience, self-control and confidence that children can carry into school, home and everyday life.
Our Heritage and Jack Parker
St Martins Junior Karate Club was founded in 1985 by Sensei Jack Parker, whose values, teaching philosophy and commitment to young people remain at the heart of the club today.
Jack believed that karate should be about far more than learning techniques or achieving belts. He saw it as a way for young people to develop confidence, discipline, respect, resilience and self-control in a supportive environment. He wanted every child to be encouraged, treated as an individual and given the opportunity to progress at a pace that was right for them.
That approach continues to guide the club. We aim to teach karate in a way that is structured and disciplined, while also being welcoming, patient and inclusive. Children are encouraged to work hard, support one another and recognise that progress is not measured only by grades or competition results, but also by the confidence, character and friendships they develop along the way.
Jack remained an important part of the club throughout his life, and his influence continued through the instructors and members he taught. Following his death in 2015, the club has worked to ensure that his values are not simply remembered, but actively carried forward in the way we teach and support each new generation of students.
His black belt remains proudly displayed by the club, and the Jack Parker Memorial Trophy is awarded in his memory. These are visible reminders of our history, but his greatest legacy is the ethos that continues to shape everything we do.
Jack’s values are not only part of our history — they continue to guide how we teach, support and encourage every student today.
Our Wider Karate Family
St Martins Junior Karate Club works closely with St Martins Karate Carnforth. Although they are separate clubs, they share strong links through their instructors, members and a common approach to karate.
Chris is actively involved with both clubs, and members regularly come together for events such as gradings, competitions, special training sessions and other club activities. This close relationship gives students opportunities to train with a wider group, make new friendships and feel part of a supportive karate community beyond their regular classes.
Community and Charity
St Martins Junior Karate Club has always aimed to make a positive difference beyond the dojo. Over the years, members, families and instructors have taken part in community events, demonstrations, fundraising activities and other opportunities to support local people and organisations.
The club has a particularly strong connection with St John’s Hospice. By the end of 2025, we had raised more than £10,000 for the hospice over approximately ten years, thanks to the generosity and commitment of our members, families and supporters.
Community involvement remains an important part of the club’s identity. It gives our young people opportunities to work together, contribute to worthwhile causes and put the values of respect, responsibility and compassion into practice.
Our club and community
St Martins Junior Karate Club is part of St Martins Karate Group and provides friendly, structured training for children in the local community. Our aim is to help students enjoy karate, develop strong foundations and feel part of a supportive club.
Classes are led by experienced instructors who focus on safe practice, clear instruction and steady progress. Students are encouraged to work hard, respect others and take pride in their development, without creating an overly competitive atmosphere.
Experienced, responsible instruction
Our instructors combine technical experience with a strong commitment to safe, age-appropriate teaching. We maintain clear standards for safeguarding, training and conduct so that children and families can feel confident in the club environment.
Safeguarding and welfare
Safeguarding is central to how the club operates. Our instructors follow clear procedures for reporting concerns, managing photography and social media, supervising children and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
Qualified and experienced
Classes are led by experienced instructors with recognised martial arts backgrounds, appropriate safeguarding checks and ongoing training. Younger leaders and assistant instructors always work under suitable adult supervision.
Ready to find out more?
Explore our classes, meet the instructors or book a free trial to see whether St Martins Junior Karate Club is right for your child.