Adults
I have been training Shotokan Karate with Jean since 2013 in Australia. As a Sandan since 2003 in America, I have trained with many top instructors from different parts of the world, including Japan, England, Israel and France. Sensei Jean has been a significant influence in my training and has provided the opportunities for me to grow and continue to develop my own karate through his unique perspective. He emphasizes and demonstrates core strength, proper breathing, and developing strong techniques at both basic and advanced levels. Through intense training sessions, I have experienced the challenges of pushing myself to my limits as well as the relaxed calm feeling that tends to be generated by the end of a class. Sensei Jean promotes good health and fitness and always speaks in a calm and reassuring manner which I believe comes from a lifetime of his own dynamic training history. His classes are often tempered with kumite (sparing) and contact as appropriate, in order to develop resilience and the ability to respond appropriately if one ever needed to protect themselves in a real fighting situation. In class, we train hard and also laugh together, keeping good camaraderie among ourselves. I enjoy training with Sensei Jean. I have come to respect him as a senior instructor and a friend who is truly dedicated to inner peace and harmony through improving character through Karate.
Ben R. Sensei 3rd Dan (Sandan) Instructor
Jean has been my Karate Sensei since 2015. He is my friend and mentor and helped me immensely thru my life journey. I am the strongest I’ve ever been physically, mentally, and emotionally, and I have no doubt it is due to Jeans’ counsel. Jean, everyone needs to hear this. You are an inspiration in the dojo. It is the knowledge you imparted to me both physically and mentally that has helped me become the karateka I am.
Jason M. Sensei 3rd Dan (Sandan) Instructor
I have been training with sensei Jean Boussard at Byron Shire Shotokan Karate Do and Self Defence since 2010 and thoroughly enjoy it. Karate has given me good physical health, emotional calm and control, mental clarity, focus and good self-defence. Sensei Jean’s class is always challenging and fun with a great bunch of students who are always happy to help beginners. I recommend Jean’s tuition to anybody of any age.
Fabio Q. Sempai 2nd Dan (Nidan) Instructor
I am a 2nd Dan Black belt in Shotokan Karate, I obtained my Shodan with JKA Australia & my Nidan with TSKFA Australia and have trained for over 14 years, I would like to take the opportunity to express how beneficial it is and appreciative I am, to train with Sensei Jean Boussard. His training encompasses all aspects of the physical body while incorporating a layered approach to application, self-defence, breathing, stretching and emotional health. His teachings are tailored to all students’ levels, needs and understanding and his support is always positive. I highly recommend Sensei Jean’s training and guidance as an essential steppingstone for a healthy, safe, well-balanced body and life.
Christine S. Sempai 2nd Dan (Nidan)
I’ve started karate when I was 5 and stopped about 6 years ago. All this time I was training in the South of France and discovered quite a few different dojos but always following the Shotokan path. In my teens,I got into Sport karate or competition which was a wonderful outlet at that time. Later on, I kept training at the Saint Eutrope karate club dojo founded by sensei Rene Cabardos, where I passed my shodan black belt. Under the F.F.K.A.M.A and the teachings of Sensei Alain and sensei’s Cabardos son, I spent the last 4 years of my training in France in this dojo.
I restarted my training with Sensei Jean in 2017, I deeply feel everything is coming back step by step. Sensei Jean’s way of sharing karate is based on self-defence helping in building up self-esteem and mutual respect with a profound knowledge of the human body’s conception.
I’m deeply happy and excited to be part of the team and ready to deepen my study of this beautiful martial art.
Pierre A. Sempai 1st Dan (Shodan) Instructor
I’ve been a Karateka at Bangalow Hombu Dojo for several years, moving from junior to advanced grade, and I still learn something new at every class. Sensei Jean has broad knowledge and experience of martial arts, with great teaching methods for all grades and ages, and an excellent warm up routine to promote fitness and strength. Sensei Ben is also an excellent skills teacher and demonstrator. The Byron Shotokan Karate dojos are a great place to build health and confidence with non-aggressive self-defence skills and inner and outer strength.
Alex J. Sempai 1st Dan (Shodan)
After many years of training in various styles and dojos in Martial Arts I took a break of some 12 or so years. Back now for the last 13 months training with Sensei Jean of Byron Shire Shotokan, I believe my level of expertise has been extremely enhanced with the knowledge that Sensei Jean has imparted not only with the technical side which is based on the Kase-Ha system but more importantly in true self defence style.
Sensei has a very calm and collected approach to his teaching with strong emphasis on deep controlled breathing and core strength plus the ability to show the true essence of Karate. To summarise the yin/yang flow, with calm attitude/explosive effective defence if required.
George R. Sempai 1st Dan (Shodan) and 74 years young
Thank you, Sensei very much, could not have come this far without your support, and guidance.
Sam F. 1 Kyu
Dear Sensei Jean,
When I brought Sam to your Karate Dojo, he was a small, skinny cheeky boy who had a brief attention span and was a little unruly. Through your guidance he at almost 19 has achieved the highest Brown Belt in Shotokan Karate (next is the black belt) and has become a strong young man who is full of confidence physically and mentally.
It takes a special gift to be able to connect with young children, command their respect and keep their attention by making karate fun.
Sam sees you as an important mentor in his life and I can’t thank you enough for your dedication to his Karate journey.
He loves Shotokan Karate Do, but we have also noticed he is a much more disciplined boy. He respects you and you have a wonderful way with the children. We are very lucky to have you taking Sam in his journey. It’s incredible how good he is under pressure; his will is now so strong. When Sam had his Grading for his three brown belts in Kase-Ha Shotokan Karate, it was extremely hard and complicated, and you pushed him to exhaustion, but he blitzed it. I am extremely proud of him and his dedication to succeed.
The father of Sam F. (18) 1 Kyu
I have found the Shotokan Karate at Bangalow to be the most realistic and useful in terms of self-defence. The Dojo has a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere with the emphasis on traditional Karate. I am back training here at Jindabyne mainly with kids and doing basics. I did talk you up to the sensei here and he was impressed with your booklet and syllabus.
I have been focusing on the tips you gave me and hopefully will be showing better kime next time I see you. I really enjoyed training with you and look forward to getting back to your Dojo.
John I. 3 Kyu
As mentioned in the school s description, Sensei Jean is a lifelong student with many teachers and influences. This is immediately apparent when attending Jean’s classes which give the student more than just knowledge of Karate but tools to take on their lifelong journey of self-discovery and improvement which is the art of Karate Do. Adding to this is the genuine love of his students and passion and commitment he brings to every session which is truly infectious and leaves the student with a feeling of having a meaningful experience and not just learning a ‘few moves’. I am grateful to have met Sensei Jean and be able to train at his Dojo which I hope to do for many years to come. I can only think and speak of Sensei Jean and his Academy of Martial Arts in the highest regard and urge anyone looking into Karate and Practical Self Defense to contact Sensei Jean.
Jeff H. 6 Kyu
After 18 months training with Sensei Ben Ruble at Mullumbimby Dojo I’m a convert. Ben’s classes are intensive and always leave me feeling energised. He has a fine attention to detail, knows just where I’m going wrong and how to put it right, and most importantly, loves karate as an art which is spiritual as much as physical. After a morning class with Ben I feel bulletproof. Nothing can touch me for the rest of the day. As well as attending Sensei Ben’s classes, I also train intermittently with Sensei Jean Boussard at Bangalow Dojo. The two teachers’ styles are very different, but they share a love of Shotokan which is highly infectious, and Sensei Jean, with his emphasis on self-defence, provides a balance to Ben’s firm grounding in basic techniques. Between them, they make Byron Shire a great place to train karate. Respect to you both, Sensei Ben and Sensei Jean.
Ben W. 6 Kyu
Jean Boussard Sensei is a highly skilled practitioner and teacher of Karate. After one year of attending his classes, my physical fitness has improved immensely in my middle age. Besides the health benefits, I have acquired a sense of mental clarity and emotional calm during a difficult period of my life. Though Karate is a martial art, Jean Sensei ‘s holistic approach to the discipline helps his students to work on their self-development more broadly, and I strongly recommend his classes for those of all ages.
Dr Nick M. 6 Kyu
Dear Sensei Jean, I am writing to thank you for teaching my son and I Karate.
Since Sam started to train at your Dojo the change in him both in strength of body and mind has been quite remarkable. Your style of instruction is perfect for the kids, the combination of discipline and fun works so well.
You convinced me to join Sam s class and as a unfit overweight 57 year old I was quite nervous at taking up a Martial Art for the first time. I am so happy I pushed myself to take the step, after 3 months I have gone from 92 kg to 84 kg today, my core strength has returned, and I feel healthier than I have for many years. I now realise Shotokan Karate is much more than the punching and kicking, the strength, stretching and yoga exercises that you incorporate in the classes, and it has made a real difference to my life. For all you guidance Karate has really helped me get fit and strong, I think I do feel many years younger thanks to you. I would wholeheartedly recommend Byron Shire Shotokan to both children and adults.
Andrew F. 6th Kyu
Thank you for a wonderful introduction to karate, looking forward to many years of training and development, wishing you and your family all the best for Xmas and the new year, we will see you on Tuesday
Jake D. 6 Kyu
At 33 years old I started Karate here at the Bangalow Dojo in April 2021. I absolutely love it. It’s so much more than just a physical practice. It’s a discipline, a philosophy, a way of life. For me it’s improving confidence, power, coordination and focus. Sensei Jean makes everyone feel welcome, creating a truly supportive environment to learn and grow in, and also a lot of fun. I feel part of a family here and have made friends with some great people. I couldn’t recommend this enough for anyone, of any age!
Kylie C. 6 Kyu
Before coming to the Byron Shire Shotokan dojo I had tried different martial arts, without really settling for one path. After a year practicing and learning from Sensei Jean I am confident karate shotokan kase ha is the path for me.
Not only do we learn the principles of power and inner strength inherent to traditional Shotokan , but the Kase ha teachings focused on practical self defence brought me a strong feeling of self-confidence, calm and focus in my daily life.
Sensei Jean is energetic and compassionate, and he is transmitting his great knowledge and skills with patience to everyone : kids or adults, white or black belts, men or women. He likes to integrate strengthening exercises, breath work, stretching and meditations in his lessons for a complete martial arts training.
Arthur M. 6 Kyu
I got taken along to watch by a friend of mine and Jean Sensei invited me to join the class as a guest. I felt encouraged and included which Jean is very good at. He really believes in you.
At the beginning the moves can be confusing but this is to be expected and we are told that in time these things become automatic. There is no pressure to get it right first time as it is like ‘polishing a diamond’.
The warmup and stretches will have you feeling stronger and calm. It’s a bit like a fighting yoga class!
I’d had an idea I wanted to join some kind of local group and it turned out to be the perfect answer to that.
My children started soon after me and now we all train together. It’s great to have them involved too and see them progress.
I like the idea we are training in something that has been passed down from previous Masters. Jean’s instruction provides a direct link to that origin. He’s the real deal.
Sensei, thank you I really felt involved and present in the class this morning and the conversation afterwards at the cafe was very insightful and very motivating. I’ve been telling my girls about it just earlier. I feel like I have opened the door to a new, exciting part of my life. Blessings mon Ami
Justin C. 6 Kyu and father of Bethany (11) 8 Kyu and April (7) 9 Kyu
40 years ago in my 20s I began Shotokan training in North Queensland. For the past 20 years I have had a deteriorating chronic condition that has affected my overall health, wellbeing, and caused physical decline. I was led to believe by medicos my symptoms were just part of the condition and I had to accept I was getting old. Medicos were very good in their lane, and adamant about all the things I couldn’t do. I began to believe them and this affected my future outlook about everything in life. Then I discovered the Bangalow Shotokan Karate Dojo and decided to say ‘yes’. Yes to doing something I once enjoyed immensely and yes to taking the chance to improve my health outlooks, despite my diagnosis.
I thought I was a co-ordinated person until I began classes with Jean, and yet after only a few sessions I found my footing and became more conscious, happier in self and felt considerably better overall. Due to my condition my muscles were deteriorating at the time I joined, and yet, after several months and now passing my yellow belt, I have been surprised to find my muscle tone has improved immensely and I feel more confident in everything in my life. My mental aptitude is directly affected the chronic health condition and yet committing to training 2 to 3 times a week on average I have noticed considerable changes to my ability to counteract this particular issue as well. I also have arthritis of the spine and some days I struggle to push past the pain it triggers, but once I am at the dojo and stretching out, partaking in yoga and training the pain subsides and I feel better overall.
I have had my setbacks along the way, with my physical and mental health, from the chronic condition, and yet the members of the dojo I train with regularly have been most engaging, but Sensei Jean has been an incredible support to help me stay focused on being positive through all challenges. His wisdom, insight, guidance and expertise as a martial arts trainer continues to inspire me to be my best, but his friendship and genuine care about myself, my family and each member of the dojo is a profound and unique attribute I am grateful to have encountered in my life journey. I encourage anyone of any age to join this community of like-minded souls of good vibes and skill training for self-defence and to better battle life’s ups and downs calmer, a trained holistic approach and with more confidence.
Ian J. 8 Kyu
Doing your classes is always good for me , they are grounding and a wonderful way to wind down, especially if there is some stress in my life.
I always love spending time with everyone after the class. My experience is that people that train with you are good people, it attracts good people.
I look forward to attending training
John W. 8 Kyu
Jean is an excellent teacher. He has a deep respect for Karate both spiritually and regarding technique and articulates the teachings in a way that is clear and easy to understand. The classes are fun and challenging and I always feel very supported and encouraged on my training journey.
Jessica J. 8 Kyu
Rhys used to be able to climb the rope and beat the state champion to the top, when he was 8 after 5 years of gymnastics.Then the car accident happened and he gave up sports one by one. First gymnastics, then running and high jumps in athletics, then cricket, soccer and basketball, but kept going with swimming. Regaining his confidence to return has taken hell and high water. Seeing him slowly regain confidence through Karate has more than surprised me. He is talking about goals again and beginning to socialise age and enjoy life and he is only at the bare beginning. As I keep saying, your influence is profound.
Rhys’ health is a work in progress, but the spark to want better has been reignited thanks to your leadership. Before meeting you I had tried not to slip into feeling like all hope was lost.
I never thought Rhys would ever engage in Karate. There is so much in what you do, I’m not sure if you are aware of the extent of your gift.
Wellness and mental health are at the core of the direction I have honed my business niche, bc I know first hand the challenge on several levels, as an entrepreneur, a patient, a woman, for those confronted by injury, life confronting issues and age. I could not have envisaged the changes which have happened since our first encounter with you, the Dojo and martial arts.
Donna J. and her adult son Rhys, both 10 Kyu
Karate is giving me the discipline and community Tribe which I enjoy. After class, I often feel an endorphin high. Karate takes me away from my head and I enjoy being taught by Sensei a different form of exercise. It is strength work, coordination, mental discipline. I also enjoy learning the Dojo etiquette. It is very respectful behavior and this is a wonderful foundation for young ones and reminders for adults on how to treat each other.
Heeling D. 10 Kyu
Tigers and Tigresses
I do love my husband and son being leaders. It’s so good for them to help out. You are such a positive influence on them. It is heart-warming.
The mother of Roy C. (16) 1 Kyu
Karate Do has supported my son in many ways. He is noticeably calmer and more positive after classes and has developed strength, balance and fitness.
The mother of Isaac P. (15) 2 Kyu
My two sons are really engaged with karate with Sensei Jean Boussard at the Byron Shotokan Dojo.
Initially I was struck by the rigour and physical discipline during the weekly sessions but now I observe a stronger mental stamina and resilience that has been wonderful to witness. My eldest son has just graded to his first brown belt and his commitment to learning more challenging kata is impressive. As is the poise, power and focus that karate demands. My son gets so much out of these sessions: he is far more in tune with his body and its capabilities, and he feels supported by his sensei and the fellow karatekas.
Karate with Sensei Jean Boussard has had a profound and very positive effect on my son, and I know he will take these learnings of respect and self-defence into his adolescence and beyond.
The mother of Aurelien R. (13) 2 Kyu
Sensei Jean Boussard is clearly an expert in Shotokan Karate, but more importantly, he is a sincere and talented teacher. He provides a safe, genuine and wholesome space to nurture students in the art of Karate. I wholeheartedly recommend him and his sincere and accurate approach to teaching my son. With gratitude
The father of Jesse E. (12) 3 Kyu
I took my son to Byron Shire Shotokan Karate as a martial arts novice. I had no idea what to expect but thought it would be a good form of exercise for a boy not interested in “running around a field after a ball”. What I found was a supportive and encouraging environment fostering respect, strength and mindfulness. Jean Boussard Sensei holds the class with calm strength and a lightness that brings out the best in the kids.
The mother of Fergus S. (14) 3 Kyu
I wanted to pass on our ongoing appreciation for your exceptional teaching that benefits Beau in so many ways. Certainly, in areas of self-defence and self-confidence but also his persistence and growth mind set. Thank you for your ongoing support of Beau’s learning and development.
The mother of Beau S. (13) 3 Kyu
Thank you for being such an engage teacher. Amelia loves karate.
The mother of Amelia A. (11) 5 Kyu
Thank you for helping Woonona she is enjoying karate very much. I really appreciate it when other grown ups provide education/mentorship to our kids as it helps them understand the world and how to work with or learn from others. Kindest regards,
The mother of Woonona B. (16) 4 Kyu
Since my son started Karate Do with Jean Boussard Sensei, I have definitely noticed an increase in focus, co-ordination, strength and flexibility, as well as an improvement in self- esteem. I highly recommend Karate Do for children of all ages, and especially teenage boys.
The mother of Ocean C. (14) 5 Kyu
My son Oscar, 12, has been training with Sensei Jean in karate for over 2 years and it has given him many benefits in all areas of his life and wellbeing. His posture, agility and fitness have dramatically improved as has his ability to concentrate. Oscar really enjoys going to the classes in Bangalow and many of his school mates have joined now so there are a strong group going through the levels together. Jean holds the space extremely well and the group are mentally and physically a strong bunch of karate kids.
The mother of Oscar O. (13) 5 Kyu
Our son has attended karate lessons for over 2 years. As well as self-defence the classes teach self respect and respect for others. He has benefited immensely and grown in strength and confidence. I recommend highly to any parent Byron Shire Shotokan.
The parents of Jarra W. (14) 6 Kyu
I have found Jean’s approach as an instructor of Shotokan to be incredible for my son, who began learning with Jean at age 10 with no prior experience. Sensei Jean is patient, highly experienced with a very calm demeanor which has a positive effect on his students. He encourages his students with a high expectation & valuable feedback of what they need to work on & what they are doing well. I find the environment of positive male role models the perfect environment for my son to learn these skills in self-defence & discipline. I am confident my son will gain his black belt with Jean as his mentor!
The parents of Floyd W. (12) 6 Kyu
Since starting Karate-Do here at Byron Shire Shotokan, I have felt the massive impact it has had on my attitude and behaviour. It has shown me the valour in being honourable, and the strength in doing the right thing.
Sensei Jean is great with anyone, and I greatly look forward to lessons twice a week. The energy around the dojo is always great and fun, and Byron Shire Karate-Do and Self Defence attracts many great people. I would highly recommend joining and trying Karate for yourself. A great place full of great people. (and from his parents: it is an absolute pleasure knowing you and the Karate experience enriches Shlomi in many ways. Many many thanks and respect)
Shlomi S. (13) 6 Kyu
Thanks so much Jean. I am super proud of him and really happy that he has found something that he can really focus on and enjoy. Ajani has learned so much and it has been amazing for him on all levels. I am very grateful Ajani has you as a strong man in his life. He respects you very much, as do I.
The parents of Ajani A. (10) 7 Kyu
Attending and training in Shotokan Karate Self Defence has so far brought discipline, focus, a sense of calm and also fun.
The parents of Sonny and Grace R. (10 and 13) both 7 Kyu
Scout is really loving the class so much. It’s wonderful to see her so proud when she progresses to each grade.
The mother of Scout W. (11) 8 Kyu
I appreciate all the time and effort you put into training Orlando and nurturing him. The kids are all lucky to have you as a mentor.
The mother of Orlando G. (10) 8 Kyu
My son has been learning karate with Sensei Jean for 18 months now. Sensei Jean is a wonderful teacher who exudes the teachings of martial arts. He is patient, kind and thorough in his teaching of the classes. My son thoroughly enjoys his lessons and through Sensei Jean’s instruction is progressing quickly. I highly recommend Byron Shire Shotokan Karate Do for girls and boys of any age. Last week I think the class was hit by all the energy in the cosmos, it is still very powerful today ,I think the dragons are flying around. Thank you so much!
The mother of Kwey M. (11) 8 Kyu
Noah came back transformed and just teaching his sister in the living room his new skills. It sounds wonderful how you teach the children. Noah was proud of himself. I love the discipline and respect you teach. You are so kind! Your work is powerful. Noah is doing very well. Thank you so much.
The mother of Noah S. (13) 9 Kyu
I have not seen Marnix this happy in a very long time! All night he continued his moves, it is inspiring!
The mother of Marnix V. (12) 9 Kyu
Cubs
My 9-year-old daughter has been learning Karate with Jean for over 18 months. Her focus, discipline and determination have been nourished by Jean’s no-nonsense attitude to training. She loves attending these classes.
The parents of Maisy H (9) 5 Kyu
I have recently been re-immersed in the world of Karate, after a lifetime hiatus (it seems that long anyway). I was a karateka in my teens, and had to stop when I moved, I had never wanted to stop. I loved martial arts, I studied others, and couldn’t get enough of them. The traits of those years stayed with me, more than just a memory. I always enjoyed the structure of karate, the disciplines, the rigour of training, the consistency and the repetition, it built a familiarity, a love for being challenged, and a real aspiration to rise to every challenge, to beat them. To me karate was a hard style martial art, it became reflexive, needed no thought, muscle and movement memory became instinctive. As a sport/discipline/martial art it is incredibly beneficial to enhance our life’s journey. I’m now a voyeur of it again, pining to be a part of the training, but only able to watch, occasionally.
My 2 children started karate a year ago, and I offered to develop a social media platform on Instagram for the club. I watch the classes, see the same vigour of the karatekas learning, being challenged, overcoming fears, gaining confidence, increasing abilities, often exponentially, and of them being respectful. We told our children they have to do karate until they earn their black belts. No option given (we’re being didactic, I believe in this discipline.
My children love Sensei Jean, who smiles at his classes, pushes his students to better karate, informs them of explosive speed, and the need for calmness.
It’s a rounded life coaching he imparts, his own lifetime of partaking and teaching this martial art embodies itself in the best you could ever hope for from a Sensei (teacher).
You can tell he also has rounded out his Martial arts with his yoga practice, which balances his karate training, rounds out his teachings even more.
He has patience and empathy, yet moves the classes along to their next goal, their next milestones, their next grading (often their next belt).
It is this Sensei and his ability with classes of all ages, genders and abilities I admire.
He brings the best out of his students. Many have been with him from the debut of their journeys in karate to their black belts, others are in the midst of that journey.
The club is so welcoming, and for those as me who have studied previously, is also beckoning as it teaches correctly, and pushes students hard, often beyond the abilities they think they have, yet they get there.
I am really excited watching classes, from Cubs (the children), to adults, especially Black Belt training, I can barely refrain from bowing and joining in.
Its a club of optimism, all working together, often smiling as straining in a warm up excercise, smiling as trying to understand the moves, forgiving of those who take a little more time to get the sequence together, forgiving of those who have the wrong foot forward, correcting so the class as a whole can move forward.
This club teaches respect, calmness, control, and builds strength, both physically and of character.
I can’t wait to train again. But for now I’m thrilled my children can, and I’m glad to see them in this world class Shotokan Karate Academy, being taught by the best, fostered to great achievements.
Thankyou Sensei Jean.
My son, Indigo: age 10, orange belt.
How I feel about karate:
It’s helping me get fit, it helps me focus, Its great to learn new things
I enjoy it.
I feel more confident knowing karate.
I feel stronger, it helps develop my muscles.
I feel like I’m accomplishing growth when I practice and pass my gradings.
I like being told by Sensei Jean that I’ve done well.
My daughter, Dune: age 8, orange belt
I love karate because I make new friends.
It teaches me how to defend myself,
I can tell it makes me stronger, and happy.
I feel confident in karate because i have been doing it for a long time.
I love my sensei.
I love to practice it, even at home.
The father of Dune (8) and Indigo (10) W. both 7 Kyu
Billy and Charlie began learning Shotokan Karate with sensei Jean 2 years ago. Sensei has been a very positive role model for the boys with the perfect balance of patience, fun, kindness , discipline. The twins really look forward to attending weekly classes. They have been training extra hard the last month for their orange belt. Thanks to sensei teaching of martial arts Billy and Charlie have both grown in fitness, strength, flexibility, self-confidence, focus. Since starting Shotokan Karate Self Defence my then 6yr old twin grandsons Billy and Charlie have been warmly welcomed and inspired by the Shotokan Community. When watching their classes I witness the teachings of a gentle blend of encouragement, self-awareness and discipline. The boys are constantly improving and learning new techniques whilst displaying focus and enthusiasm as they continue to practice, I look forward to watching them grow in strength of mind and body. It is beautiful to see all those little guys having so much fun. Billy and Charlie are very happy. They say you are a good teacher.
The grandmother of Billy and Charlie. L (both 7) both 7 Kyu
Our youngest son has taken up karate at 6 years of age and his co-ordination, concentration and mental capacity has already increased. Embodying the kata physically and mentally is a great weekly practice for him. Our son’s core strength and flexibility has certainly improved, and he enjoys being in a group where he is challenged and has the opportunity to learn and develop. Secretly he wants to be a ninja (!) and he is discovering an ancient practice that has real relevance today. For someone who is quiet, reserved and introverted, Karate is bringing him to a strong grounded place where he is solidly connected to his body and his spirit.
The mother of Remy R. (8) 7 Kyu
It has been such a joy to witness Willow shine in her Karate.
Sensei Jean builds a great report with his students and he guides them well.
It has been wonderful to witness the overflow of her Karate training into all aspects of her physical, mental and emotional well-being .
The parents of Willow (10) 7 Kyu
Shotokan karate has helped develop confidence and flexibility to our son. He loves learning the new katas.
The parents of Leon L. (7) 8 Kyu
So glad we found Shotokan Karate in Bangalow. Jean is an excellent teacher for my 6yr old son. Noah has progressed quickly and enjoys his weekly lessons. Not only is he learning self-defence skills, but also discipline and focus.
The mother of Noah. H (7) 8 Kyu
Billy started Karate classes with Jean Sensei when he was six. It has been great for him to interact with students of different ages and varying levels.
It has been a fabulous tool for his mental health, it has helped increase his focus and mental clarity and kept him in control of his emotions. His physical wellbeing has also benefited greatly. Thank you, Jean, for the wonderful lessons and your meditative-like calmness. I would highly recommend getting your kids involved.
The parents of Billy O. (8) 9 Kyu
I love seeing her dedication to something she is so passionate about .
Dear Jean, all your patience and encouragement with Maximo (and the other children) is greatly appreciated. Ee is starting to get the concept! Now just get them into Karate for the respect and discipline. I may not say it enough but thank you Jean for bringing this into their lives. It’s really appreciated
The parents of Maximo (9) and Xeres (6) M. both 9 Kyu
Thanks Jean. We are very impressed with your teaching and how focused Harvey is. He is enjoying the training immensely. It was very lovely to see how far he had come in a short time, and he loves it so much Have a lovely day!
The parents of Harvey S. (9) 9 Kyu
We are very proud of Paqari, Jean She is so stoked and wanted to train more when she got home last night 😊 Thank you for all you are doing, Sensei. Karate is such a beautiful martial art, and we are truly grateful for how you inspire this generation 🙏
The parents of Paqari B. (8) 9 Kyu
Karate as a discipline and support for control of emotions brings so much to our son. Maxwell in particular needs some support in this area at the moment. We are trying to reinforce in our family values of kindness which you are also a great role model for. Thank you, Sensei. 🙏🥋
The parents of Maxwell E. (7) 10 Kyu
Leon loved his trial lesson!! And is very keen to continue.
Thank you for welcoming Leon into your beautiful Karate school. I was so impressed with how you helped him feel so comfortable and also welcomed by his peers.
Look forward to this new journey for Leon. It will be so great for him in so many ways.
The mother of Leon M. (5) 10 Kyu