About Our School

Since Wirral UKTA was set up in 1995 we have come a long way, producing martial artists of a high standard and establishing ourselves on the World stage.
 
The school is overseen by an elected management committee made up of instructors, students and parents of junior members. Our constitution and policy documents can be viewed here.
 
With instructors trained by First Grandmaster Rhee Ki Ha, and a senior Instructor, who has trained under General Choi Hong Hi, Founder of Taekwon-do, you can be sure that our Taekwon-do is authentic.

The UKTA is the UK’s original Taekwon-Do Association, founded in 1967 by Grandmaster Rhee Ki Ha. It is overseen by a Masters Council consisting of Masters (7th & 8th Dan) & Grandmasters. We are also members of the ITF. There are some groups who claim to teach ITF Taekwon-do but with no ITF qualifications, training or recognition, from or by, the ITF. All our Instructors hold genuine ITF qualifications and are active members of ITF England.

In 2010 our senior Instructor was awarded UK 'Instructor of the Year' by Grandmaster Rhee Ki Ha, and Sport England have invested over £3000 in us. We are members of the British Taekwondo Council, the official Sport England recognised National Governing Body for Taekwon-do.

If you are interested in the competition side of Taekwon-do, two instructors and two junior black belt members have represented England Internationally at European or World level. All brought home medals, one becoming World Champion in patterns and in sparring. (NB. These are ITF World & European Championships, not association open competitions that call themselves World or European)

FAQ's


  At what age can my child start?
Children aged 6+ can join, (or 8+ in the Liverpool classes). Sometimes parents ask if younger children can join and we occasionally take 5½ year olds, however, these children usually have parents who are also members. 5½ year olds will be considered on an individual basis and we only have a few places at any one time. If you want your child to achieve black belt and continue Taekwon-Do into adulthood, it is important that they do not start too young. Read the article What Age Should a Child Start Martial Arts?

Can my child and I train together?
Yes, parents can train with their child at the family classes but you should attend some adult classes too for your own development.

How often should I train?
It is recommended that you train at least twice a week, however, some people can only manage once a week which is OK but progress will be slower. Some people like to train more often, with our 'unlimited membership' you can train up to 5 times per week.

How often can I grade and how long will it take to become a Black Belt?
There is an Area Grading every 3 months conducted by an 8th Dan Master or 9th Dan Grandmaster, for those who are ready, any students needing to grade between these times will be graded by our International examiner. No-one can tell you exactly how long it will take you to reach Black Belt as everyone is different. If an instructor guarantees you will get a black belt in a certain time then you might as well just buy one from a shop as train under that instructor.

What is the minimum age to get a  Black Belt in the ITF?
11 years old

Can I take part in competitions?
We provide regular competition opportunities. ITF competitions allow you to compete with various skill aspects, not just sparring. Many of our students have won medals in National championships. See competitions for more information. It should be noted however, that we teach the true martial art and never compromise its integrity for the sake of competitions.

I’m in my 40s and unfit, am I too old to start?
No. Many people have achieved black belt in their 40's, 50s and beyond, and if you are interested in competition there are veteran categories too. Beginners aren’t expected to have a high level of fitness, this builds up over time. Our members come in all shapes and sizes.

Will you accept my grade from a different Taekwon-Do Association?
If your previous instructor holds ITF qualifications, this is not a problem. If not, it may still be possible, however, not all non-ITF groups meet ITF standards, so each person is looked at individually. We don’t want you to have to pay to grade again so your grade will be recognised once you meet standards. If you have been a black belt or instructor with another association we will work with you one-to-one in confidence. Please bear in mind that a child can't be a black belt in an official ITF school until they are 11 years old, therefore if you have a child who is younger than this wth an unofficial  black belt, they will definitely not be transfered over as a black belt.

How much does it cost?
See prices

Why didn't you reply to my email?
I did! Check your junk mail. If you've left a voicemail message and not had a reply, please call again or email as sometimes numbers left in messages can be hard to distinguish.

When can I start?
New students are always welcome. Please  email before coming, so we can look out for you. (See classes for venue details)

Contact: info@wirraltaekwondo.com