Awarded Top Martial Arts School in the UK for the last 12 years, including 2024.
Boost your child's discipline, focus, social skills and confidence with our state-of-the-art kids' programme, designed to help pre-teens stay safe while developing a healthy body and a strong mind.
1. Recognised Leadership and Proven Success
With over 55 years of martial arts experience and more than 30 years of dedicated teaching, Deputy Grand Master Vince Cassar leads the Cassar Academy with unmatched expertise. Personally endorsed by Grandmaster Kwang Jo Choi as the flagship school of Choi Kwang Do worldwide, The Cassar Academy is recognised for its exceptional standards and sustained success. Additionally, the academy has been awarded the Top Single Martial Arts School in the UK by the Educational Funding Company (EFC) for over a decade - a testament to its impact and excellence within the global martial arts community.
2. Highly Trained and Skilled Instructors
Deputy Grand Master Cassar Cassar’s instructors benefit from his extensive knowledge through monthly training sessions, ensuring that each member of the teaching team is fully equipped to deliver the highest level of tuition. This approach guarantees that every instructor upholds the academy’s values, providing students with focused, effective instruction that supports their progress and safety.
3. Holistic Development
Choi Kwang Do is designed to enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Unlike traditional martial arts that focus on competition, the Cassar Academy promotes personal growth and self-improvement in a non-competitive environment.
4. Scientifically Based Training
The techniques we teach are based on modern scientific principles, ensuring that students use their bodies efficiently and safely. This approach not only maximises the benefits of their training but also reduces the risk of injury, making it suitable for children of all ages and abilities.
5. Comprehensive Self-Defence Skills
CKD equips students with practical self-defence techniques designed to be effective in real-world situations. The focus is on developing powerful techniques without the need for brute strength, allowing even smaller or less physically strong children to defend themselves effectively.
6. Enhanced Cognitive Function
The integrated movements of Choi Kwang Do are specifically designed to stimulate both sides of the brain, improving co-ordination, focus and cognitive abilities. This leads to better academic performance and greater ease in learning new skills.
7. Supportive and Inclusive Community
At the Cassar Academy, students join a welcoming, family-oriented community where they’re surrounded by support and encouragement. Training together builds not only martial arts skills but also close friendships and a sense of belonging that extends beyond the class. Our academy thrives on mutual respect, shared goals and a spirit of helping each other grow. Many of our students form lifelong bonds, creating a close-knit family within the academy that makes every individual feel valued and connected.
8. Comprehensive Health Benefits
Regular training at the Cassar Academy helps improve cardiovascular fitness, flexibility and muscle strength. Additionally, the stress-relieving aspects of CKD promote mental well-being, helping children manage anxiety and stress more effectively.
9. Character Development
CKD places a strong emphasis on developing qualities like respect, perseverance and self-discipline. These values are reinforced in every class, helping children become well-rounded individuals both inside and outside the dojang.
10. Tailored Programs for All Ages
The academy offers specialised classes for children, ensuring that each age group receives age-appropriate training that keeps them engaged and motivated. Whether it’s building fundamental skills or advancing to higher levels, there’s always something new to learn.
11. Flexible and Progressive Learning
The Choi Kwang Do belt system at The Cassar Academy is designed to keep children continuously challenged and motivated. Training twice a week allows students to progress to a new belt every two months on average. Each promotion introduces new techniques and drills, encouraging them to adapt to different movements and develop diverse skills. The structured progression helps children stay engaged and fosters a sense of achievement and confidence with every new level attained
Your Child’s Martial Arts Journey.
1) Get Started with a Free Trial or Purchase a Programme
Fill in the form to request a free trial class. If you’re ready to dive in, you can purchase one of our programs and start your martial arts journey straight away!
2) Booking Your First Session
Once you’ve submitted the form, our team will reach out to schedule your 1-1 trial class. If you’ve purchased a programme, we’ll book your 1-1 induction session. This is your child’s first step into the world of Choi Kwang Do!
3) Your First Session: A Warm Welcome
In your initial session, you'll be introduced to the academy and if you’ve enrolled in a programme, your child will be fitted with their brand new uniform! You’ll get a taste of what a typical class looks like, including our warm-up and cool-down, basic blocks, punches, kicks and drills. They’ll even get to try out some moves on punch bags, shields or focus mitts - always the most exciting part of the session!
4) Exploring Your Options
After your trial, we’ll discuss the training programmes available. If you’ve already signed up, we’ll set you up with access to The Cassar Academy app. The app is your ultimate resource - where you can book classes, watch training videos and find everything you need to assist your child on their martial arts journey.
5) Booking Your Classes
We understand busy family schedules, which is why we offer children’s classes five days a week, with no restrictions on days. All our sessions are age-specific, ensuring your child trains with peers their own age. Easily book your classes up to 3 days in advance via the Cassar Academy app.
6) Your Child's Training Journey Begins
As your child steps into the world of martial arts at the Cassar Academy, their journey to becoming a martial artist truly begins. Starting with the basics, they will progressively build their ability and confidence. Each class is meticulously designed to help them grow stronger, more focused and more skilled. This journey is one that every child can embark on, regardless of age or previous experience!
7) Progress and Achieve
Every two months at the Cassar Academy, your child will have the chance to showcase their skills to Deputy Grand Master Cassar and their parents. Following these demonstrations, they will be awarded new belts and certificates in a ceremony that celebrates their dedication and growth in Choi Kwang Do.
9) Support and Community: The Heart of The Cassar Academy
As your child progresses through their martial arts training, they will never be alone. Our dedicated instructors and community members are always on hand to guide, support and cheer them on. They'll become part of a supportive family that values respect and discipline, making new friends and gaining mentors that are committed to helping each member grow and succeed.
A story from childhood challenges to martial arts excellence.
By Deputy Grandmaster Vince Cassar
Growing up in Malta, I was just like any other boy in many ways - full of energy, curiosity, and dreams. However, attending an all-boys school where the play could get rough, I quickly realised the importance of self-defence. Despite not being overly timid, the fear of bullying and physical confrontations was a silent shadow that followed me. It was during these formative years, at the age of 8, that I began Judo, my first step into a world that would eventually shape not just my ability to defend myself, but my entire life's purpose.
The transformation began subtly. With each class, my confidence grew; I wasn't just learning to throw and grapple; I was learning to stand tall, eventually becoming the under-12 and under-14 Malta National Champion. Martial arts had become more than a sport - it was a refuge, a space where I felt both powerful and at peace.
During the awards ceremony at the championships, a visiting Korean Tae Kwon Do National demonstration team captivated me. Its dynamic kicks and strikes were unlike anything I had ever seen before, I knew then that my journey in martial arts was far from over.
My move to England at 17 opened new doors - I joined an Ishin Ryu Karate school. The dojo was tough, the training was tougher and only the most dedicated survived. This was a stark contrast from the Judo of my youth. Despite my resilience, the harsh training, characterised by lockout movements and repeated hyper-extensions, soon started to have a detrimental effect on my joints, highlighting the physical toll of such rigorous training methods.
However, it was Choi Kwang Do that truly changed everything. Discovering it by chance, I was initially sceptical of its softer appearance. Yet, witnessing the fluid power of a sidekick that sent a man flying, I was converted on the spot. The principles of biomechanics, kinesiology and neuroscience not only made Choi Kwang Do more effective but also healthier and more sustainable.
Over 25 years of close mentorship with Grandmaster Choi has enriched my understanding of this martial art, influencing my approach to both practice and instruction. He saw how rigid, stylised movements could cause long-term harm to the practitioner's body and sought to develop a martial art that utilised natural and fluid motion to enhance health and longevity. It’s adaptable, fast and responsive, making it incredibly effective in real-life self-defence situations.
With over 55 years of training and 30 years of teaching, my journey through martial arts has been long and fulfilling and has led me to understand the true impact of Choi Kwang Do in every aspect of life.
1. Warmup/Cooldown
We use a two-step warm-up process to prepare your child’s body for training. First, we start with gentle movements that gradually increase the heart rate and awaken the muscles. Then, we move on to specific exercises that get them ready for the dynamic movements of Choi Kwang Do. After training, we cool down with a similar process to bring their heart rate down safely and ensure that muscles return to their normal state. This thorough approach helps prevent injury, enhances performance and ensures that your child is physically and mentally prepared for every class.
2. Stretching Exercises
We guide children through carefully structured stretching routines that help maintain muscle health and joint flexibility, setting the stage for safer and more effective training. These exercises also help improve their range of motion, balance and coordination.
3. Basic Techniques
By mastering fundamental techniques such as punches, blocks and kicks, children build a strong foundation in martial arts. This not only improves their physical abilities but also boosts their self-confidence and instils a sense of achievement as they progress through their training.
4. Patterns
Patterns are a series of movements that improve concentration, memory and coordination. As children learn and perfect these patterns, you’ll notice an increase in their ability to focus and a sense of pride in mastering complex sequences.
5. Speed Drills
Speed drills help develop quick reflexes and agility. These exercises enhance a child’s ability to react swiftly and accurately. Skills that are beneficial both on the mat and in everyday situations where quick thinking is required.
6. Defence Drills
Our defence drills teach children practical skills to stay safe, using partnered exercises that simulate real life scenarios in a controlled environment. These drills improve reflexes, build confidence and instil a sense of security, knowing they have the ability to handle themselves calmly and responsibly if ever faced with a challenging situation.
7. Target Training
Target training helps children develop accuracy, control and hand-eye coordination by striking specific targets with precision. Each impact strengthens joints, ligaments and bone density by sending shock signals that stimulate the body’s natural adaptation.
8. Close Range Tactics
Close range tactics focus on escapes from holds like wrist grabs, chokes and bear hugs. These drills help them learn how to break free calmly and confidently, building resilience and composure in close quarters.
9. Strength and Rehabilitation
Building strength is essential for overall fitness and injury prevention. Our exercises focus on developing muscle tone, endurance and balance, while our rehabilitation techniques help young bodies recover and stay healthy, promoting long-term physical wellbeing.
10. Character Development
Beyond physical skills, we focus on building character through core principles like respect, perseverance and integrity. Our programme guides children to become well-rounded individuals, helping them grow into disciplined, confident and empathetic young people who approach challenges with a positive mindset.
At The Cassar Academy, we believe that the strength of martial arts lies as much in their character as in their skills. By starting each class with a reflection on our values, we help kids connect their training to a deeper sense of purpose. These guiding principles help students to develop self-confidence, empathy and resilience, supporting their growth into thoughtful and responsible individuals.
Children’s Promise
· To always do my best and never give up
· To obey my parents and teachers
· To tell the truth and honour my word
· To always be polite
· To never misuse what I learn in Class
The Principles Of Choi Kwang Do
· Humility
· Integrity
· Gentleness
· Perseverance
· Self Control
· Unbreakable Spirit
Leadership Programmes
Our leadership programmes are designed to allow kids to step into roles of responsibility, where they guide younger peers and assist instructors. This builds their confidence, enhances communication and leadership skills and fosters a strong sense of commitment.
To celebrate and recognise the dedication of our leaders, each level features a distinct uniform. These uniforms make our leaders easily identifiable and allow them to wear their achievements with pride.
Black Belt Club (4-9yrs)
Eligibility for these opportunities is based on a young student’s enthusiasm, respectfulness and active engagement in class. They start their leadership journey by learning to set a positive example by responding loudly and confidently, quickly following commands and assisting instructors during demonstrations. The focus is on building foundational leadership skills that make them stand out as role models.
Storm Team (10-13yrs)
As these young students mature into the Storm Team, the criteria evolves to include enhanced leadership qualities, advanced skill levels and a commitment to actively supporting and mentoring their peers. As members of the 'Special Team of Role Models', they begin to support assistant instructors and take a more active role in leading small groups of young students. They deepen their martial arts knowledge and participate in monthly instructor workshops, preparing them for more significant responsibilities.
Assistant Instructor (14yrs+)
Continuing on this path, those in the Assistant Instructor program are selected based on their superior communication skills, deep understanding of martial arts techniques and their proven ability to lead and inspire those around them. Teenagers transition to learning how to lead entire classes, conducting warm-ups and cool-downs and working closely with individual students or small groups under the supervision of seasoned instructors. This stage is crucial for those who aspire to teach and lead in martial arts.
Head Instructor (18yrs+)
Finally, the most advanced opportunities are reserved for those who have not only mastered instructional techniques but also embody professionalism and are dedicated to fostering the growth and excellence of our entire martial arts community. The journey for adults continues towards becoming head instructors, chief instructors and eventually school owners. Each role comes with increased responsibility and the opportunity to shape the future of our academy and its students.
Understanding the importance of milestones in a child's development, our Choi Kwang Do coloured belt system offers new belts every two months, providing clear, achievable goals. This progression keeps your child actively engaged and advancing steadily, helping them enhance their skills and boost their confidence. Each new belt brings fresh challenges and learning opportunities, allowing them to see the rewards of their dedication. This vibrant and rewarding journey fosters a strong sense of accomplishment and pride, enriching their overall experience and personal growth.
Black Belt Ranks
The Black Belt journey marks the beginning of an advanced phase of training, where students delve deeper into their martial arts skills, focusing on leadership and mastery. This stage is designed to challenge them further, enhancing both personal and physical growth. We have a great track record of not only taking students to this prestigious level but also guiding them beyond black belt, showcasing our commitment to their long-term development and success in martial arts.
This systematic progression has significant physical and mental benefits
Physical Benefits
As students move through the belt ranks, they engage in a variety of movements that enhance their strength, flexibility and co-ordination. The introduction of new techniques and drills requires them to utilise different muscle groups and develop fine motor skills, which supports overall physical development. The constant adaptation to new movements also improves their balance, agility and reaction times, making them more versatile and physically capable.
Mental Benefits
Mentally, the progressive belt system fosters resilience, focus and a growth mindset. Each new belt level represents a tangible goal that motivates students to practice diligently and overcome challenges. Learning new techniques and drills stimulates cognitive function, improves memory and enhances problem-solving skills as they learn to execute complex sequences of movements. This regular exposure to new challenges encourages children to embrace learning, adapt to change and develop a positive attitude towards overcoming difficulties.
Continuous Engagement
By consistently introducing new content at each belt level, students remain engaged and motivated. This progressive learning system prevents stagnation and boredom, making training a dynamic and exciting experience. It also ensures that students are constantly improving, building a solid foundation in both basic and advanced techniques as they advance through the ranks.
Q: What age groups do you cater to?
A: We offer age-specific classes for children. We hold classes for 4-6yrs, 7-9yrs, 10-12yrs and 13yrs and above. This ensures that each child receives training tailored to their developmental needs and abilities.
Q: Does my child require previous martial arts experience?
A: No, previous martial arts experience is not required. Our classes are designed for beginners as well as those with martial arts backgrounds. Our instructors will guide your child every step of the way, from their first punch onto more advanced techniques.
Q: How much is the membership?
A: Our memberships are charged monthly and work out at under £15 per class if you attend the recommended 3 times a week.
Q: What’s your cancellation policy?
A: You only have to give us a month’s notice if you want to cancel your membership.
Q: What equipment do we need?
A: We give your child a free uniform and their first belt upon joining. Your child will also need hand & foot protection to participate in certain drills as soon as possible. You can purchase these along with extra t-shirts at our academy.
Q: Can I stay with my kids?
A: Yes, parents are welcome to stay and watch their child’s progress during classes. It’s a great way to see them in action and support their journey.
Q: What happens if we miss a class?
A: You can easily book a make-up class through the Cassar Academy app. This way, your child can keep up with their training schedule without missing out.
Q: How does my child progress?
A: Progress is achieved through our structured belt system, with opportunities to advance every 2-3 months through consistent training. Each new belt introduces your child to fresh techniques, keeping them challenged and motivated.
Q: Are your instructors certified?
A: Yes, all of our instructors are high ranking, fully certified by Choi Kwang Do International, DBS checked, insured, first aid trained and attend monthly instructor training workshops run by Deputy Grandmaster Vince Cassar with over 55 years experience.
Q: How safe is Choi Kwang Do?
A: Choi Kwang Do is a non-contact martial art, the focus is on co-operation rather than competition. Wearing full protective gear, students work together to practice blocks, punches and kicks in a safe learning environment. The goal is to build confidence and skills and not to overpower one another.
Q: What benefits will my child gain?
A: In addition to learning effective self-defence, your child will develop focus, discipline, respect and confidence. They’ll also build physical fitness, co-ordination and resilience through engaging and fun classes.
Q: What is the Cassar Academy app?
A: The Cassar Academy app is your all-in-one training companion. It allows you to book classes, access training videos and stay updated on your child’s progress and any academy updates or events. It’s a fantastic resource for both kids and parents to support their journey in Choi Kwang Do.