Junior classes

Junior Judo Classes (Ages 5–14) Our junior classes are specially designed for children aged 5 to 14, running Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 18:00–19:15. Led by our passionate, expert coaches, these sessions create a fun, safe space where kids learn judo skills while building confidence, making friends, and developing important life qualities—all at their own pace.
No experience is needed, and we welcome every child: whether they're bursting with energy, a bit shy, a natural athlete, or just curious to try something new. Our focus is on enjoyment, respect, and steady progress in a supportive environment where every youngster feels valued and encouraged.
Tuesday 18:00 -19:15
Thursday 18:00-19:15

Mastering new techniques and succeeding in a positive setting helps children feel capable and proud. Many parents notice their child stands taller and speaks up more after just a few weeks.

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Judo is a brilliant, playful way to get active—improving coordination, core strength, agility, and overall fitness through games, drills, and partner work. It’s exercise that feels like fun, not a workout.

Learning to listen, follow instructions, and stay present on the mat builds concentration and self-control that carries over to school, homework, and everyday life.

Kids pick up practical techniques for standing throws, groundwork, and safe self-defence in a controlled, non-aggressive way. It’s empowering knowledge delivered with care and emphasis on respect.

Training together creates natural bonds—children laugh, encourage each other, and form friendships that often last beyond the dojo. New kids settle in quickly in our welcoming group.

Judo’s core values—politeness, humility, and mutual respect—are woven into every class, helping kids develop kindness, resilience, and a strong sense of self-worth.

Why Judo is special for kids

Judo isn’t just a sport—it’s a positive way of life that nurtures physical health, mental strength, and character. Our classes are crafted to help each child thrive: building resilience through gentle challenges, fostering teamwork, and celebrating small wins along the way. Whether your child dreams of grading higher, competing one day, or simply having a great time while getting fitter and more confident, we’re here to support their journey.

Led by Head Coach Luke Brown (5th Dan, former Great Britain international, UKCC Level 4 qualified), our award-winning coaches bring elite experience and genuine care for young people. Luke has earned recognition including the Postgraduate Diploma Prize in Advanced Sports Coaching, and the whole team is dedicated to making judo enjoyable and rewarding for every child.

All coaches are DBS checked and fully insured, creating a safe, supportive space where parents can relax knowing their child is in excellent hands. We tailor guidance to each youngster’s needs—helping them master techniques, build fitness, have fun, or even pursue competition if that’s their goal.

Come as you are—no need to buy anything upfront! For your first class:

  • Wear comfortable athletic clothing: a plain t-shirt (or rash guard) and loose shorts/leggings/track pants (no zips, buttons, belts, or hard parts that could snag).
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  • Bring clean indoor-only flip-flops or slides to wear off the mat (we train barefoot on clean mats).
  • A water bottle is a good idea—training gets intense!
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  • Remove all jewellery, keep nails short, and arrive with a positive attitude.

We can often provide a loaner judo gi (uniform) if you want to try one, or just train in your kit for the first few sessions while you decide if it’s for you.

Not right away—most clubs (including ours) let you try a few sessions (typically 1–4 free or low-commitment tasters) before requiring British Judo Association (BJA) membership.

Once you’re hooked and want to continue regularly, grade, or compete, you’ll need a valid BJA licence for insurance, official recognition, and access to events. It’s straightforward to apply online via the BJA site—we can guide you through it. Introductory/short-term options are available if you’re just testing the waters.

Got more? Drop us a message via the contact form, or just turn up to a Tuesday/Thursday session and chat with the coaches. We’re a friendly bunch and happy to answer anything—whether it’s about fees, gradings, or what a typical evening feels like.

The

Coaching

Our expert coaching team

Led by Head Coach Luke Brown (5th Dan, former Great Britain international, UKCC Level 4 qualified), our award-winning coaches bring elite-level experience combined with genuine care and understanding of children and young people. Luke has been consistently recognised for his coaching excellence, including the Postgraduate Diploma Prize in Advanced Sports Coaching, and the entire team shares his passion for helping every youngster thrive.

What sets our coaching apart is our commitment to seeing each child as an individual. We value every member for who they are right now—their personality, their starting point, their unique strengths and interests—and we tailor our guidance to support their personal journey. Whether a child is shy and building confidence, full of energy and needing focus, naturally athletic, or simply here to have fun, we meet them where they are and help them grow at a pace that feels right for them.

what to bring
with you

Excellent
Based on 31 reviews
Martyn Hayes
Martyn Hayes
2022-08-03
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It's a fantastic judo club, really friendly. The coaches are really good with all the kids and really knowledgeable.
Rob Gaskell
Rob Gaskell
2022-02-14
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Superb Sensei and a great junior class
April Edwards
April Edwards
2020-02-13
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Great club, friendly environment and very knowledgeable coaches. I would recommend to anyone, beginner and advanced. Fantastic place to learn judo.
Jack
Jack
2020-02-12
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I have been training at Leigh for over a year now and feel that this is a fantastic judo club. The coaching staff are excellent and very welcoming. There is a friendly atmosphere at the club and support is provided to judoka of all levels.
Agnieszka Conradie
Agnieszka Conradie
2020-02-12
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My son & I, we train at the Judo Club for 1 year now. Friendly & safe environment. Luke is a knowledgeable & an outstanding coach. My son is learning respect & discipline, while he is having a lot of fun at the same time. The perseverance, love & joy of learning is reflected in the children taking part in training. All judo team (Luke, Tom, Vicki & Rob) are professional coaches & they have a great ability to bring out the best in children of all levels & abilities. They interact well with children of all ages. I appreciated the focus on skill, but even more so on character - kindness & sportsmanship. Every training is a very positive experience for me & my son. I would encourage anyone, regardless of age or physical ability to give it a try, & I can think of no better group of people to pursue this Judo Club in Lowton. Thank you Aga & Brad.
Paul Jervis
Paul Jervis
2019-08-30
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My daughter has been here nearly 5 years now and still absolutely loves it. She has made life-long friends and it has also made made her quietly confident, given her manners and respect. Luke takes no messing around be it from the kids or the adults and as such you can see the kids develop into young adults with great values. This is not only a judo club. It is an extended family where everybody knows everybody and welcomes new people with open arms There is also activities outside of judo for the kids and adults. Camping. Cinema bowling trampolining and lots more. come along. You won't be disappointed.
Clint Smith
Clint Smith
2019-01-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My 2 Children & Me ... have been training JUDO here for nearly 2 years .. I can’t recommend Leigh Judo highly enough this place is great for kids & adults to Learn & Train Judo - build confidence & make new friends ..

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