The Passion Behind Aspire UMA Academy
At Aspire UMA Academy, our team is the heart of everything we do.
Each instructor brings a wealth of martial arts experience, a passion for teaching, and a genuine dedication to helping students achieve their best — both on and off the mats.
We believe great instructors don’t just teach techniques — they inspire confidence, discipline and self-belief.
SABUMNIM GRIFFITHS
I started my martial arts journey in Aikido many years ago. Like our other instructors, I found real enjoyment and many benefits from the practice of Choi Kwang Do. I rediscovered my interest in martial arts training after sustaining an injury and have since found improvements in my flexibility, fitness, and mindfulness. Our aim is to help people within our community find these same qualities in their own journey of self discovery. At Aspire UMA Academy, we offer students a safe environment for personal development and relief from the everyday stresses that life can bring. We have set our school up with you in mind! Pil Seung!
SABUMNIM HOWLEY
I started my martial arts journey in Aikido many years ago. Like our other instructors, I found real enjoyment and many benefits from the practice of Choi Kwang Do. I rediscovered my interest in martial arts training after sustaining an injury and have since found improvements in my flexibility, fitness, and mindfulness. Our aim is to help people within our community find these same qualities in their own journey of self discovery. At Aspire UMA Academy, we offer students a safe environment for personal development and relief from the everyday stresses that life can bring. We have set our school up with you in mind! Pil Seung!
BOOSABOONIM HOWLEY
I started my Choi Kwang Do journey back in 2011. Thanks to my parents’ search efforts, we found Choi Kwang Do very locally to us and thought I could give it a shot! Almost 14 years later, I am a Head Instructor and recently received the rank of Deputy Master ! I look forward to continuing my journey and helping others learn!
KYOSAHNIM GRIFFITHS
Kyosahnim Griffiths started his martial arts journey at the age of 4 years old and has been training for over 10 years now. He is one of the most experienced students and assistant instructors in our academy. Enjoying other sports including football, cycling and the gym, Miles has a natural thirst for learning new skills and helping others.
KYOSAHNIM GRIFFITHS
Mrs Griffiths was new to martial arts but a natural and has worked hard over the last 5 years to become a reliable Assistant Instructor. Now a 1st degree (IL Dahn) student, she works well with all levels of students and provides good technical ability. An inspiration to our female students.
KYOSAHNIM CHALLIS
Mr Challis has been training at our academy for over 4 years now and is one of our 1st degree (IL Dahn) black belt A.Is in Choi Kwang do. He has travelled to South Korea and has also met Grandmasters Baron and Pereira.
KYOSAHNIM CHALLIS
Mr Challis has been training at our academy for over 4 years now and is one of our 1st degree (IL Dahn) black belt A.Is in Choi Kwang do. He has travelled to South Korea and has also met Grandmasters Baron and Pereira.
KYOSAHNIM WOODLAND
Mr Woodland joined our ITP training programme for assistant instructors in 2024 and is currently working towards his 1st Degree Black Belt.
KYOSAHNIM WOODLAND
Mr Woodland joined our ITP training programme for assistant instructors in 2024 and is currently working towards his 1st Degree Black Belt.
KYOSAHNIM HOLT
I’m Mum of two and care home manager. I joined the ladies only training sessions in 2022 as I wanted to get fit, gain confidence and be able to protect myself. I have really enjoyed my journey. I’m working towards 1st degree black belt and now a trainee instructor. I enjoy training and supporting others. It’s great for your mental health and we have a really nice group.
Mrs Holt is currently on our ITP training programme.
KYOSAHNIM LEWIS
Miss Lewis joined our ITP training programme for assistant instructors in 2024 and is currently in Australia but still working towards her 1st Degree Black Belt when she returns.
KYOSAHNIM O'CONNOR
Mr O’Connor, has many years of experience in martial arts and is a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do.
Having joined our academy in 2024, Mr O’Connor embarked on our ITP training programme in 2025 and provides a wealth of knowledge and experience.
KYOSAHNIM O'CONNOR
Mrs Gregory has previous experience in martial arts and combat sports. She joined our 8 week beginner course in 2023 and never looked back. She enjoys helping people learn their new techniques and loves being part of our academy in an instructor role.
KYOSAHNIM GREGORY
Class Schedule
We offer flexible classes throughout the week for children, adults, and families.
Book your session directly online or contact us to discuss the best programme for your goals.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday
Tuesday & Thursday evenings
Fridays
Available throughout the week — try before you commit!