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Sabrinavia Google

about 1 month ago

We are so happy that we decided to enrol our child with Islington Martial Arts. Mr. Patel has helped our son understand and practice principles that are very important to us, such as integrity, respect, resilience and humility. Our child’s confidence has increased greatly and he now even helps to teach the younger ones which has further helped him develop the kind of leadership skills he will need in the future! We highly recommend Islington Martial Arts! Thank you!

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Rosangela D'Erchiavia Google

2 months ago

A wonderfully welcoming space for adults who want something more meaningful than the gym. I recently attended a trial class at Islington Martial Arts, and I genuinely enjoyed every minute of it. Mr Patel was incredibly welcoming from the moment I stepped through the door. The class was engaging, dynamic and mentally stimulating. A great way to ease into the weekend. Even as a complete beginner, I felt supported, encouraged, and completely included. If you’re an adult looking to build confidence, improve coordination, de-stress after long workdays, or simply try something uplifting and different, I couldn’t recommend Islington Martial Arts more. It’s a truly special place.

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Belarbi Wassilavia Google

3 months ago

Our kids Inasse and Lokman start attending a Martial arts classes from September and I am very happy and proud of the progress they have made, but all of this with the help and the support of Mr Patel. He guided, helped and gave them more confidence. Today, I can say that I made the right decision to enroll them in this academy. I would like to say a big thank you to their instructor, Mr Patel, I have great respect for your professionalism. He really does his job wholeheartedly. Translate a conversation

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Jamie Beattievia Google

3 months ago

Mr Patel has done an amazing job with my daughter in Choi Kwang Do! She's gained so much confidence and enthusiasm for the class, and it's been incredible to see her thrive. The way mr Patel teaches and supports the students is truly exceptional - he's patient, encouraging, and brings out the best in each child. My daughter loves going to class every week and always talks about the fun she has. We're so grateful for mr Patel and the positive impact he's had on her life. Highly recommend!!

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Miiivia Google

4 months ago

My son is six years old and autistic, with a PDA profile. For years I struggled to find an extracurricular activity that truly suited him, something structured but not overwhelming, where he could learn, socialise and feel proud of himself. We tried many clubs, and each time it ended the same way: “We cannot meet his needs.” Then we found Islington Martial Arts. From the very first conversation with Mr Patel, I felt understood. He listened carefully, asked about my son’s needs and was completely honest about what might work best. Mr Patel offered a trial day and then a trial month, taking time to manage expectations while validating my son’s interest and ability. He cared deeply about how my son would experience the class, not just about gaining a new student. The moment he put on his uniform and stepped onto the mat, I could see his joy. For the first time he found something that captivated his focus, he was stimulated, he listened and responded to clear, respectful instruction. I cried after his first class because I had never seen him engage that way before. It was an emotional milestone for me to witness as a mother. Over the past few months the change in him has been remarkable. He looks forward to every session, asks how he did afterwards and repeats the class values at home. “Am I being respectful?” has now become part of our daily language. The structure, warmth and routine of the classes have built his confidence in ways that are being noticed and appreciated by school, family and friends. I have seen his confidence grow as he raises his hand at the start of class to volunteer to read the class principles and promise, something he would never have done before. Mr Patel and his team have created a genuinely inclusive, patient and empowering space for children of all abilities. My son recently earned his White Belt Senior and the pride on his face was heart warming. Mr Patel goes above and beyond. He has even added an additional Saturday session and has even facilitated online educational classes for parents where he invited speakers to share experiences and educate on neurodiversity which has been informative and validating. He shares resources such as videos to help students practise their patterns at home and encourages families and friends to be invited to attend students gradings so every child feels celebrated and has a special moment to remember. His approach is ingrained in growth that is developed in a way personal to each child. He reminds families that martial arts is more than an after school activity; it is a mindset and a way of life that needs to be nurtured and incorporated in and out of class for students to receive its full discipline and values. What stands out most is his professionalism and commitment to the art. Mr Patel does not avoid difficult conversations when it is in the best interests of his students, including gently reminding parents to also stay present during the class so their children can benefit from that undivided attention and support which does wonders for their self esteem. Mr Patel has a holistic and just way about his delivery. He has created a sacred, safe and non-competitive space that recognises each child individually. I am endlessly grateful to the team at Islington Martial Arts. You have given my son not just a class but a safe place to grow, belong and believe in himself. Although the class is for my son, my own confidence has also grown as a young parent because Mr Patel is kind and validating in the way he recognises, praises and encourages each parent for their efforts and how that is reflected and crucial to ultimately support their child’s progress. He reminds us that we work together, and that resonates with me because I do believe 'it takes a village to raise a child', and I'm grateful my son has Mr Patel as a positive male role model to support in our journey. I look forward to my youngest son joining Choi Kwang Do next year. Pil Seung :)