Meet the Team
At the Black Belt Academy, we teach traditional Karate. However, this is not our only focus. While self-defence is necessary, we focus on helping our students to develop themselves. Developing self-confidence and self-belief are far more essential skills and attributes.
We equip our young students with the skills to deal with unhealthy peer pressure and to understand the importance of working hard to achieve a goal. We believe this is very important in a world of instant gratification.
Confidence, discipline, and respect - are the principles that our Academy is built on. I hope you experience what our Academy can do for you or your child.
Chief Instructor -
Sensei Simon Bushby
I first started training in September 1988 after watching a karate class with my dad. Even at that young age, I knew I had found something special. Watching that first lesson, I set my mind to my first-ever goal - I was going to be a Black Belt!
Throughout the years, I have repeatedly used that same mindset to achieve my martial arts grades and win competitions. I have also accomplished goals in my personal life, like completing 200km plus ultra-marathons in both the Amazon jungle and Kenya and completing an Ironman.
Martial Arts has given me so much more than simply the skills of learning how to kick and punch. I genuinely believe that it has the power to change a person's life, regardless of whether they train for six months or 60 years. Martial Art is a bit like an onion; once you start peeling back the layers, you discover its true depth.
I am incredibly passionate about helping my students develop skills of perseverance, discipline and respect alongside vital life skills.
Dan Grades Received
- Junior Shodan – December 1993
- 1st Dan – June 1995
- 2nd Dan – June 1997
- 3rd Dan – June 2000
- 4th Dan – June 2004
- 5th Dan – Sept 2009
Sensei Andy Woolcott
I started training in Dorchester with Sensie Craig Nevitt in 1982.
During my journey I have also trained with Sensie Ernie Molyneux (8th Dan IOGKF), Sensei George Andrews, 8th Dan, Sensie James Rousseau (9th Dan)
I believe that my training has given me the self confidence, fitness and determination to not only progress my karate training, but given me the determination to be the best I can, in my career and personal life.
1981 - Began training in Karate with Sensie Craig Nevitt
1987 - Graded Shodan (1st Dan)
2017 - Graded Nidan (2nd Dan)
2021 - Graded Sandan (3rd Dan)
Sensei Tom Tilbury
I started Karate training at five to build confidence and become more independent. I have developed so much self-confidence and self-respect from karate - It has taught me not only to respect and better myself but also to encourage and better those around me.
Karate training has helped me interact with people and become more relaxed in situations I would have found challenging. It has also helped me stay fit and to help reach personal goals and keep progressing. Karate has kept me motivated and made me keep trying harder.
I am always learning something new and being able to apply the knowledge.
I love teaching karate as it brings a new light to karate and a different perspective. It is incredible seeing other people progress, and it is so rewarding. Applying my knowledge to others and seeing them learn is excellent. I have learnt just as much from teaching karate as I have from training myself, as it is an entirely different angle, so I improve myself and strengthen others.
My current grade is 4th Dan black belt (Yon-Dan)
David Snelling
I joined the academy in 2011 at the age of 7. Before I started karate, I was shy - but being part of the academy and training in karate really built my self-confidence.
I now still enjoy all the classes and can have a laugh who those I train with.
The best part about teaching a class is when you can see that they are enjoying themselves and having fun, while exercising and getting fit.
I am now 3rd dan and still enjoy every minute.
Lorna Woolcott
My daughter started her training as a 4-year-old little dragon and is now a 12-year-old Black Belt. It was watching her train that initially inspired me to begin my own path within the academy in 2017.
The Academy has a very inclusive family feel about it, which has been invaluable. Karate keeps me focused, keeps me moving and is a brilliant way of meeting people.
The best part of my role within the Academy is watching the young students not just grow, but progress and develop with the vital teachings that Martial Arts has to offer. It is a pleasure to be part of their journey.
Karen Gilmour
My journey started in October 2018 when I joined the Kickfit class on a Saturday morning.
I loved it straight away and I soon had the bug. It was fascinating watching the students practising their katas before class. I soon joined an adult beginner’s class and I was so proud of myself when I passed my first belt grading. Nearly 4 years later, I am on track reach my black belt in December 2023.
This year I joined The Black Belt Academy team as the safeguarding lead, helping with the Little Dragons. My experience as a qualified social worker working with children and families at risk of harm or in need of support.
Karate has not only improved my physical health and fitness but has helped me manage my mental health which is ultimately what pushes me on.
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