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Does your child spend too much time on their electronic devices?
Do you struggle to get your child old off their games console or iPad? When you think back to your own childhood, do you see a significant difference between how active you was as a child compared to that of your son or daughter?
A recent study looking at the health risks of excessive time online in children found that ‘younger children are likely to put their physical and psychological development and general health at risk’.
Sitting still and paying attention for long periods in of time requires significant strength, balance and good posture all of which are developed through movement and play. .At 6-12 years old these children should be active every day.
Taking part in exercise from an early age is important and research suggests that the development of FUNdamental Movement Skills in early childhood has a dramatic effect on reducing drop out in the years to come.
does your child need a little extra Confidence
When it comes to taking part in different activities with people outside of their regular bubble, children can find a new environment a little challenging. Does your son or daughter sometimes tell you they don’t want to take part in new activities due to a lack of confidence rather than not enjoying the activity?
Every time a child tries a new activity there is a risk of them failing. This can often cause them to not try so there is zero chance of them failing. The children that think their intelligence and abilities are fixed are described as having a fixed mindset. A Growth mindset is a belief that with effort, we can improve our abilities and intelligence.
Developing a growth mindset has been proven to help children take on new challenges, reduce stress, enhance self-esteem, build intrinsic motivation and improve confidence.
Does your child need more focus and determination to finish activities they start?
There are so many distractions in the world our children are growing up in today. Social media and other mobile applications have been developed purposefully to draw their attention ……..and keep it.
Every time a device tings or flashes the child receives a small dose of dopamine which encourages them to check back even more often. These endorphins enforce this habit and make it difficult to focus on anything else.
In the marshmallow test performed by psychologist Walter Mischel in the 1960s, researchers found that the longer a child was able to delay gratification the higher their sense of self-worth, lower levels of drug and alcohol abuse, lower levels of obesity, higher levels of education, they pursued their goals more effectively and also enjoyed better quality close relationship
Would you like to expand your child's social circles and help them build life long friendships?
Children don’t always do what you ask but they will often follow what you do. Having a positive peer group has always been important but it is just as important that the coaches delivering the activity are good role models for the children.
Social connection is not only important for mental health but is also one of the leading reasons why children continue to take part in clubs and physical activity. Children often start activities because their parents want them to train but they continue to take part due to the friendships they build.
Social and emotional development is not only good for making friends in sport, but also equips the children with skills needed to navigate high school, college / university and work.
looking for an activity that prioritises the development of the students over profit?
Do you often find that activities you would like to sign your children up for require you to sign up for a specific period of time or that you have to buy additional expensive equipment before the child even gets started?
We all understand that sports and martial arts clubs have to turn a profit so they can pay their bills (even if they operate as a not for profit) but year on year, the cost of children’s activities seems to be getting out of control.
While most parents don’t mind paying for high quality service, what they don’t want to pay through the nose for is a sub standard service that tries to sell you something extra at every opportunity.
This is the reason we decided to make the Warrior Factory martial arts centres ‘not for profit’ Community Interest Companies. We find that this allows us to focus on developing great classes and a sustainable martial arts club that will be around for decades to come.
Development for life
Age specific martial arts
We have been running our children’s Taekwondo programme since 2009. Our Taekwondo programme has been adapted to be child friendly and appropriate for the student’s stage of development.
After leaving a career in IT around 2008 to concentrate on coaching martial arts full time, Phill started looking for ways to upgrade his coaching skills. He noticed that most martial arts instructors taught their children’s classes just the same as their adult classes. He knew there must be a better way but just didn’t know where to look to find the answer.
This search led him to attend a course to become a Personal Trainer, before going on to study for a BSc and MSc in sports coaching at Leeds Backket University.
In most martial arts, students have been able to progress from student to coach just by passing a black belt exam based on their ability to perform the martial art, with non of the test focused on coaching ability. With a sector almost zero regulation, at Warrior Factory we do things a little different.
Not only do our venues use a research-based children’s programme, but many of our coaches have a degree in either early year’s development or sports coaching. Pairing a research-based programme with qualified coaches helps us to provide a safe, fun and developmentally appropriate service for our young members.
What happens in our............
Kids Taekw0no classes
The kids Taekwondo sessions are our busiest classes and run six days a week (though availability will vary). Due to the number of junior Taekwondo members at the Halifax Warrior Factory, we have been able to split the sessions into beginner, intermediate and advance. This keeps all the beginners together and removes the fear new starters have of being the only beginner in the class.
Our target in this programme is to try and get the students to Black Belt by the time they go to high school. This can give them a great boost in confidence while also equipping them with the tools needed to deal with confrontation. When students get to black belt, some will choose to volunteer to help out with the young children’s classes while acting as a role model. Out of these students, some will take part in our Martial Arts Leaders programme. They can take join the level 2 course at 13 years old and the level 3 at 15. These qualifications are nationally recognised and the level 3 qualification even carries UCAS points.
All our Taekwondo kids are registered with British Taekwondo as part of the signup procedure. This allows access to national seminars and competitions while also making sure that all coloured belt gradings are nationally recognised. Being a member of the National Governing Body for Taekwondo in the UK also ensures that any talented competitors have a pathway to the Olympics via Team GB operating out of the full-time national centre of excellence in Manchester.
Taekwondo Basics
In our childrens Taekwondo classes students will learn the basics of this this Korean martial arts and Olympic sport. The Taekwondo basics are the foundation of the art.
Movement Skills
FUNdamental Movement Skills are integrated into our kids Taekwondo sessions to help the students build the foundational skills needed for future developments.
Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence
The PCDEs are a set of 10 important psychological skills that underpin a students behaviour in the pursuit of excellence. This are taught during classes and perfected over years.
Self Defense
When children join our kids Taekwondo programme, they begin a journey towards black belt and beyond. This training includes various self defense techniques they will learn through the belt system
Physical Fitness
Physical fitness for this age focuses on 8 main skills; locomotion, stabilisation, coordination, strength, speed, flexibility, power and agility. These are developed alongside aerobic/anaerobic fitness.
Sparring
As part of their training towards black belt and beyond, students will test their skills sparring. Some will take part in national competitions while a few will go on to compete internationally.
Want to give it a try with zero risk?
2 X FREE TRIAL CLASSES
What do our customers think?
Gemma Stringer
16:53 11 Feb 25
Our daughter has been training at warrior factory for over two years and she loves it. It’s great exercise, lots of fun and the instructors are fantastic, they embed the fundamental principles early on and then develop the techniques as the classes… progress. The classes are really well organised and there’s places to sit for parents to watch the training on TV screens. I would highly recommendread more
Rik Smith
12:12 01 Aug 24
I started in January with my eldest. 3 months later my youngest joined as soon as he turned 6. Everyone is friendly and the instructors are very knowledgeable and patient with the younger members. All in all, really glad we took up Taekwondo.
Craig Hayes
16:16 19 Jun 24
My son has flourished here, becoming more disciplined and respectful, as well as focused.
I cannot praise the team enough for what they do here.
I cannot praise the team enough for what they do here.
Mandeep Kaur Khela
12:40 21 Apr 24
My daughter was 3 when she started in the Dragons version and will be aiming for her black belt next! 🥋 I have seen her grow in so many ways as a result of the personalised, professional attention to each student. My youngest daughter has… progressed through to the 3rd belt and now I’ve joined them on that journey! Coming out of my comfort zone was hard at first but the classes are geared towards all levels and having family classes means we can train together 💗.
We have gone through some challenging personal circumstances and the sensitivity and compassion shown by the team has been very much appreciated 🙏🏽. The sense of achievement spurs you on and for that time in the class you become immersed in the experience of doing something for yourself and improving your mental and physical health which is critical. 💪🏽🧠❤️I highly encourage you trying this out and you won’t be disappointed bringing that form of discipline and learning into your life. ☺️read more
We have gone through some challenging personal circumstances and the sensitivity and compassion shown by the team has been very much appreciated 🙏🏽. The sense of achievement spurs you on and for that time in the class you become immersed in the experience of doing something for yourself and improving your mental and physical health which is critical. 💪🏽🧠❤️I highly encourage you trying this out and you won’t be disappointed bringing that form of discipline and learning into your life. ☺️read more
Rachel Hill
20:51 20 Feb 24
My son started at Warrior Factory 18 months ago, he loves attending every session. He has made lots of new friends including staff, built his confidence, skills and discipline.
I highly recommend to anyone who comes accross this review/… website to try for yourself or your children. One of the best parts is, you get a free class or two, to see how you settle in.
All staff are very polite, professional highly skilled and very interactive with all ages. The rooms are always filled with happiness, you are always very welcomed, staff always take a great interest in you and your child.
Whenever I’ve had to reschedule for whatever reason, a simple email and staff have accommodated for my son.
10 STAR ALL ROUND!!!!read more
I highly recommend to anyone who comes accross this review/… website to try for yourself or your children. One of the best parts is, you get a free class or two, to see how you settle in.
All staff are very polite, professional highly skilled and very interactive with all ages. The rooms are always filled with happiness, you are always very welcomed, staff always take a great interest in you and your child.
Whenever I’ve had to reschedule for whatever reason, a simple email and staff have accommodated for my son.
10 STAR ALL ROUND!!!!read more
Lucia Bowes
18:18 19 Feb 24
My 2 girls started in July 2023, they absolutely love coming to Taekwondo. The eldest has gained so much confidence. The instructors are brilliant, very knowledgable and the kids love them. There is a real friendly family feel to the club, you are… always greeted with a friendly smile and a warm welcome. I would highly recommend the Warrior Factory to any parents wanted their child to learn a martial art, skills, discipline and gain self confidence that will stand them in good stead for life. They offer 2 free taster sessions so you have nothing to lose and all ages are welcome.read more
Carol Shackleton
16:17 18 Jan 24
I love warrior factory. my 2 grandsons love it . We have been coming here almost a year now . Ronan does Teakwondo twice a week and loves it . The staff , trainers are all helpful supportive easy to talk too . It a good place to learn and make… friends get all the extra energy out their systems xxread more
Jim Tkd
17:35 10 Jan 24
I love Warrior Factory and have been going for quite a few years now. I say its one of the best things I’ve done. The people both students and instructors are great. It’s very welcoming, supportive, family friendly and has fun social events. It can… be challenging but it’s worth it so I encourage anyone of any ability to have a go.read more
Jade Rachel Beesley
15:03 10 Jan 24
My 2 boys started the classes 6 months ago, It’s really helped with their confidence & they love it!
The lessons are always fun but in structured way to learn new skills.
The instructions are amazing and make sure the boys come out… having a great time.
I would highly recommend the classes.read more
The lessons are always fun but in structured way to learn new skills.
The instructions are amazing and make sure the boys come out… having a great time.
I would highly recommend the classes.read more
Anthony Debnam
14:18 10 Jan 24
My son started with the dragons when he was 6 and has worked his way all up to back belt. He inspired me to join him and I’ve never looked back. The staff and trainers are professional, supportive and most of all fun! Everyone is welcome regardless… of age or ability and we love it!read more
Jennifer Lukic
20:41 30 Aug 23
My boys absolutely love coming to Warrior Dragons, they are always met with a warm welcome and everything is so well organised. My eldest is usually shy and takes a while to warm to new places but that has never been a problem at warrior dragons… which is a true testament to all the staff 😊 highly recommend for your little ones!read more
Kim Nast
16:39 29 Aug 23
My 3 boys attend the taekwondo classes, beginner and intermediate levels. It’s really helped with their confidence, listening and concentration. The lessons have structure, discipline and fun all together. It’s great exercise too and the boys really… enjoy coming. I would highly recommend the classes.read more
Zain G Din
00:06 25 Jul 23
RESPONSIBILITY
Leaders Must Own Everything In Their World. There Is No One Else To Blame.
Children visiting your centre has caused me nearly £5k of criminal damage Saturday 22june the parents said they would take responsibility Donna &… Jordan but now failing too. Teach the kids how to treat others property with respect. I also reported to the receptionist at the centre who failed to get me a call back from the owner.read more
Leaders Must Own Everything In Their World. There Is No One Else To Blame.
Children visiting your centre has caused me nearly £5k of criminal damage Saturday 22june the parents said they would take responsibility Donna &… Jordan but now failing too. Teach the kids how to treat others property with respect. I also reported to the receptionist at the centre who failed to get me a call back from the owner.read more
Leah Wagg
15:15 27 Apr 23
Both my boys are Dragons at Halifax. They love the classes and are excited to attend every week. The classes are fun, affordable, great excercise and the coaches have such patience and enthusiasm. My littlest’s listening and behaviour has… improved so much since he started and they can channel their rough and tumble energy into safe drills at home with the practice pad. It’s such a welcoming, family friendly and generous sporting facility with charity events, parties and holiday clubs throughout the year too.read more
Monika Niemiec
09:06 16 Sep 22
We’ve been with Warrior Factory Halifax for years and I can’t recommend the guys over there enough!! They offer a wide range of physical activity based on Martial Arts, lessons have a great structure and discipline but maintain fun. The sessions… help to build a strength, confidence, concentration and listening skills. The staff is excellent and passionate about their work and they will tailor any exercise to everyone’s ability to achieve an amazing progress. The atmosphere here is fantastic and family friendly. I can highly recommend this place and have a go with one of the tester sessions!read more
Ben Devereux
16:12 15 Jun 22
Our son and daughter have been going to classes at the Warrior Factory since they were 3 years old and both absolutely love it. I’ve even started taking classes myself recently – better late than never! Can’t recommend the guys there enough.
Sarah Jones
08:29 23 Apr 22
The dragons class has been great for our 4 year old. He’s been going for 6 months and it’s helped develop his concentration and listening skills and he really enjoys the fun games and physical activities. Staff are great in keeping it interesting… and accessible for all the girls and boys who take part.read more
Vikkie Pawson
20:52 06 Apr 22
My little boy started in dragons a few years ago. He started off very shy and with little self confidence. Jess and the entire team have worked miracles, they have gone above and beyond to make him feel safe and secure, it took lots of time for him… to settle in but he was always met with a smiling face and lots of patience! The difference in him now is amazing you wouldn’t believe he’s the same little boy. He now runs in through the door and bursts into conversation with anyone who will listen, he’s learnt that it’s ok to make mistakes and that you just try again, he is now so much more confident in himself and really enjoys going each week.
Honestly can’t reccomend enough!read more
Honestly can’t reccomend enough!read more
Claire Logan
15:42 30 Mar 22
My son George has been attending Warrior Factory for four years and he absolutely loves it. The staff are friendly, encouraging and knowledgeable. I’ve seen his confidence improve loads since joining. Can’t recommend enough to anyone thinking of… sending their children 🙂read more
Christy Marie Midgley
13:49 30 Mar 22
Our son has been going here for over a year now. The team are fantastic with him. Not only has he gone from strength to strength with his martial arts it’s also boosted his confidence and helped with his focus and discipline.
Couldn’t ask for… more!read more
Couldn’t ask for… more!read more
Katie Louise Marsh
20:19 25 Jan 22
Two of my children attend Warrior Factory Halifax. They both enjoy their specific lessons, with one being a beginner having joined recently and one at an intermediate level who has been a member for the past couple of years. Both find each session… engaging and fun. They look forward to each session, with each lesson having a fantastic structure and discipline but maintaining fun They have kind and passionate coaches who work brilliantly with each child, they have instilled great confidence, resilience and strength in my children. I would highly recommend sending your child to one of the taster sessions to find out if it is for them.read more
Helen Cousen
14:37 19 Jan 22
As members for over 5 years, we would highly recommend Warrior Factory to anyone looking for martial arts training. Coaches are always encouraging and provide a fund and friendly training environment.
The training rooms are custom-made for… martial arts and maintained by the WF team so no mucky sweaty sports hall floor to use after a 5-a-side match.
The team love what they do and it shows in the quality tuition in class.read more
The training rooms are custom-made for… martial arts and maintained by the WF team so no mucky sweaty sports hall floor to use after a 5-a-side match.
The team love what they do and it shows in the quality tuition in class.read more
Helen Jeff
17:59 30 Nov 21
Our 6 year old has been going here a few years and really enjoys it. Fitness through fun and games in a structured way, building confidence and skills in a well equipped venue and with friendly expert instructors. Would definitely recommend to other… families.read more
Rachel Philippa Strafford
22:41 16 Nov 21
‘Excellent staff and family friendly. Our eldest has been going 9 years now – we signed her up to build her confidence and she’s loved every minute of it. So much so her younger sister (and now dad) have joined up!’
Since this review I have also… joined I’m not going to lie I was terrified before my 1st session but had no reason to be! The staff were incredibly welcoming and I have not looked back. I’m not the fittest person or the most flexible but that doesn’t matter. Techniques are adapted where needed and I have great fun in each session. 2 years on and I wish I’d joined earlier!read more
Since this review I have also… joined I’m not going to lie I was terrified before my 1st session but had no reason to be! The staff were incredibly welcoming and I have not looked back. I’m not the fittest person or the most flexible but that doesn’t matter. Techniques are adapted where needed and I have great fun in each session. 2 years on and I wish I’d joined earlier!read more
Lucy Armitage
18:06 24 Jul 17
Amazing teaching my son has gained confidence and coordination. The staff are kind and friendly.
Claire Cantrill
16:31 06 Oct 16
My daughter has been coming a few weeks now and really loves it! She’s a little clingy in other classes she goes to but really gets stuck in here, the teachers are great ��
Christian Bloom
14:18 03 Jul 16
Great people and focused training, they also have some great competition fighters as well for people wanting to go to the next level.
Julie M Bauer
18:27 23 May 16
My children love it and have been attending for over 2.5 years. The teachers are fantastic with everyone and are very polite and friendly. Would recommend this club to any one.
Stuart Wider
16:28 15 Mar 16
Family friendly club. Great Instructors. It’s lovely that the whole family can be together in the same class for a very reasonable price.
Quite a relaxed feel to the place when compared with other Martial Arts clubs that I have attended (at… least in the class I attend), so if anyone is at all intimidated by attending a martial arts class then don’t be, Warrior Factory is a great place to be for you. Mums and Dads… this is not just for the kids… you can get into it too at the same time 🙂
The only thing I think that would improve the in-class experience is for the Instructors to just be a wee bit more assertive with class etiquette when some of the more exuberant class members are a bit cheeky, mess about a bit or talk over the instructor. My family and I really want to be able to hear every valuable bit of information that the instructors tells us, and concentrate on every technique as its all so good and interesting 🙂
Keep up the good work and thanks guys!read more
Quite a relaxed feel to the place when compared with other Martial Arts clubs that I have attended (at… least in the class I attend), so if anyone is at all intimidated by attending a martial arts class then don’t be, Warrior Factory is a great place to be for you. Mums and Dads… this is not just for the kids… you can get into it too at the same time 🙂
The only thing I think that would improve the in-class experience is for the Instructors to just be a wee bit more assertive with class etiquette when some of the more exuberant class members are a bit cheeky, mess about a bit or talk over the instructor. My family and I really want to be able to hear every valuable bit of information that the instructors tells us, and concentrate on every technique as its all so good and interesting 🙂
Keep up the good work and thanks guys!read more
Sasha Struthers
20:20 05 Oct 15
First started with my little boy coming to the dragons class and now the whole family love to come! It been lovely to see my once shy little lad grow into a confident boy who’s not afraid to show off his new moves to the entire school!