How to Join Our Classes
We run karate classes in Sunderland throughout the week based in Pennywell. If you would like to give karate a try or continue previous training, simply come along to one of our lessons. You can try your first-week training TOTALLY FREE, so you’ve nothing to lose! Anyone from age 5 can join.
No special equipment or kit are needed to train, simply turn up in comfortable clothing around 10 minutes before the lesson begins and introduce yourself to one of our friendly black belts who will be happy to answer any questions you may have and point you in the right direction.
There are no joining fees, or any hidden costs and you simply pay for the lessons as you train. After your first month of training if you find you are enjoying lessons and wish to continue you will then need to buy a karate suit and a license. We have karate classes for kids, as well as karate classes for adults too. There’s no age limit.
Benefits of karate
- Learn Self Defence
- Learn Traditional Karate
- Learn Competition Karate
- Improve Fitness & Wellbeing
- Develop Strength & Co-ordination
- Improve Mental Health
- Develop Discipline & Focus
- Improve Self Confidence
READY TO JOIN?
Timetable & Locations
Pennywell Community Centre
MONDAY
7.00PM – 8.00PM
(Junior Class)
7.00PM-8.30PM
(Intermediate Class)
WEDNESDAY
7.00PM – 8.00PM
(Junior Class)
7.00PM-8.30PM
(Intermediate Class)
Class Costs
Here at Honto Shin Karate Academy, what sets us apart from many is that all instructors teach on a voluntary basis. We are a non-profit club and as such we don’t need to charge high class costs – just enough to cover the halls we hire. We keep our class costs to a minimum to ensure karate is accessible to all, you simply pay as you train at £2.50 per class. We do offer people the option to pay monthly though if you prefer for ease – just ask us and we can help you get set up. We really don’t mind how you pay – it’s entirely your choice.
Pay as you go
£2.50 per class - Simply pay as you train
- Classes Running Twice a Week
- Train As Many Classes As You Want
- First Week Free To Try
About US
Honto Shin Karate Academy was founded in 1983 by Sensei Liz Fraser and teaches karate in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear. The club quickly grew into a massively successful one, churning out multiple competition champions from the talented student base thanks to Sensei Fraser’s vast experience and disciplined and focussed approach to teaching.
Sensei Fraser, over the years, has tutored more than 60 students to reach the coveted black belt with some going even further to 2nd, 3rd dan, etc. In 2012 Sensei Fraser was voted the pride of Wearside by the people of Sunderland who voted in their droves for the tireless contribution that she has provided to karate in Sunderland and her community for almost 40 years. The main running of the club falls to Sensei Andy Nesbitt 5th dan, who has trained loyally with Sensei Fraser for over 26 years, and assisted by Adam Foster, 4th Dan and assistant instructor Anth Dowd 2nd Dan, who is also our clubs safeguarding officer.
We welcome anyone to take up karate at our club, regardless of age or ability. Karate can be practiced by anyone. Our starting age is age 5 onwards and is open to both children and adults. Club instructors are fully DBS checked, hold various teaching, safeguarding, first aid and other qualifications.
words of our students
Instead of us trying to convince you how good we are, why not hear it direct from some of our students? Check out what some of them have to say about why they love practicing karate and what they love about our club.
Kiera
"I love karate as it helps me relax, it helps me with my focus, I make new friends and get to help others. It’s great for fitness and mindset and you also learn to defend yourself. The club is amazing and the Sensei and Senpai are amazing, They're so helpful and kind and they go above and beyond to help out. They do it all for free and I hope to be a Sensei or Senpai with the club when I’m older ."
Daniel
"I love karate as it gives me something to focus on. It helps keep me fit and I love that I have met some new friends along the way. I really enjoy it and try hard every lesson."
Alex
" In January 2022 I was introduced to Honto Shin karate club and I love training every week with my friends. In my short time at the club I have learned my first kata and a combination of blocks, strikes and competed in my very first in club competition and earned 2nd place for my kata. I have to work hard every lesson to help develop my karate skills and I love it."
Safeguarding
Honto Shin Karate Academy are committed to safeguarding children and young people under the age of eighteen and all instructors within the club share this commitment. Instructors and adults within our club or organisation take all welfare concerns seriously and encourage children and young people to talk to us about anything that may be worrying them. Our objective will always be to always act in the best interest of the child.
For any safeguarding issues or inquiries, please contact our dedicated safeguarding officer whose details are listed below
Honto Shin Karate Academy Safeguarding Officer:
Name: Anthony Dowd
Email: a.dowd@karate-sunderland.co.uk
Local Authority Safeguarding Lead (Sunderland):
Name: Danielle Rose
Email: lado@sunderland.gov.uk
Telephone: 0191 5617198
Like what you see?... Ready to Join?
Get your first week free!
To join our classes, just enter your details in the short form and we will contact you to answer any questions you may have. This will also set you up on our student management app, which you will be able to download, book your classes, track your progress, and more. We look forward to helping you on your martial arts journey.
Check our reviews
Pennywell Honto shin is a fantastic club !! The sensei are very professional, knowledgeable! Keep lessons fun but disciplined and care about all of their students!.. it’s like one big family and all of the black belts and higher ranking students are so humble and will help anyone who’s struggling. My daughter has been attending Pennywell Honto Shin since she was 7 and has thrived here and gained so much confidence and discipline.
Terri N. - Parent
Been a member of the club for about 10 years now and I have loved every second of it. Fantastic teachers who dedicate themselves to the art and ensuring every student gets the highest quality of training. Would highly recommend to anyone looking to get into martial arts.