About
Founded in 1995 by brothers Paul and Chris Everest, Westerleigh Judokwai has proudly served the local community for more than three decades. Now celebrating 31 years of inclusive judo, we are a British Judo Association (BJA) affiliated club, welcoming both mainstream judoka and those with additional needs.
Over the past 31 years, we have grown into one of the region's leading community judo clubs, with more than 100 members aged 4 and above. Throughout our history, we have built a reputation for excellence, developing Area Squad members, Special Needs European and World Champions, while providing a safe, supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to achieve their personal best.
We are honoured to have been recognised with the British Judo Association Club of the Year Award (2012) and the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (2015)—the highest award given to local volunteer groups. We were the first judo club to ever receive the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and remain one of only two judo clubs to hold this honour to this day.
Our purpose-built dojo features one of the largest mat areas in the region, supported by a dedicated team of experienced volunteer coaches. With seven qualified coaches, we provide high-quality instruction for both mainstream and additional needs judoka, ensuring every member receives the guidance, encouragement, and support they need to develop their skills and confidence.
Inclusion at the Heart of Everything We Do
At Westerleigh Judokwai, inclusion is more than a philosophy—it's how we teach every session. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience judo, regardless of ability or background.
Our coaching approach is tailored to the individual. Where necessary, techniques or activities may be adapted to meet a person's needs, while maintaining the same expectations for effort, respect, and personal development. Every member is encouraged to challenge themselves, improve at their own pace, and be part of the team.
Who Can Join?
We welcome anyone aged 4 years and over, whether you're completely new to judo or have previous experience.
We are proud to support children and adults with a wide range of additional needs and disabilities. Rather than focusing on limitations, we focus on each individual's strengths, adapting our coaching to help every judoka achieve their full potential.
What Do I Need to Bring?
All you need for your first session is:
- Comfortable clothing
- A drink bottle
- A positive attitude
Your first session is completely free. After that, training costs £5.00 per session.
If you don't have a judo suit (Gi), don't worry. We have a range of loan Gis available to hire for £10, or you can purchase your own through our discounted club shop.
Do I Need a British Judo Licence?
Not immediately.
New members begin with a six-week trial period. After this, if you decide to continue training, you'll need to obtain a British Judo Association (BJA) licence. The licence provides essential insurance cover and allows you to grade, compete, and access other BJA member benefits. Several licence options are available to suit different needs.
Why Choose Westerleigh Judokwai?
We're proud to be a judo club with a difference.
Our close relationship with the Special Olympics meant our coaching team gained extensive experience working with both children and adults with additional needs. What truly makes Westerleigh unique is that we don't separate our mainstream and additional needs members—everyone trains together as one club.
We believe this integrated approach builds confidence, respect, friendships, and understanding, creating an environment where every member feels valued and included.
As a family-run club, we've always believed that judo is for everyone. For over three decades, we've fostered a safe, welcoming, and supportive atmosphere where members of all abilities can learn together, encourage one another, and enjoy the many physical and social benefits that judo provides.
At Westerleigh Judokwai, we don't see differences—we see potential. Everyone belongs, everyone is supported, and everyone trains together.
WHAT OUR CLUB IS ALL ABOUT?
Westerleigh prides itself on the inclusiveness of its sessions!
We are one of a few clubs in the country that have our Main Stream and Additional Need players train together at the same time on the mat.
Our aim is to push our players in the direction they want to achieve, whether that be podium finishes or just a means of getting fitter, we will support you all the way - we accept everyone, no matter your shape or ability!
With just over a hundred club members, being a part of our Judo Club feels more like a second family. Besides organizing Judo-related events, we also make sure that all of our players/volunteers get time to get to know each other via social and community events.
These are the types of Coaching that we offer:
- Kids
- Additional Needs
- Seniors
- Recreational
- Beginners
- Competitive
Testimonials
“Very friendly judo dojo with experienced coaches. Specialising in integrating people of all abilities and is very successful on the world stage for it.”
Bennet
“Both my son's attend the Wednesday sessions and both love it my eldest son has autism and adhd and they are excellent in supporting his needs to be able to participate!”
Holmes
“Best decision we have made to help support our son! Great coaches and friendly atmosphere”
