Life Skills Through
Karate & Kickboxing
At Kicx in Churchdown, Gloucester, we run a Character Development programme For Children
"Leadership is communicating the worth and potential of people so clearly that they are inspired to see it in themselves"
Martial Arts School for Personal Growth, Self Mastery & FUN!
Welcome to Kicx Academy
Home of Champions Character!
We are not just a martial arts school—we run a Full Time Personal Development Academy in Churchdown that uses martial arts as a vehicle to build strong, confident, and focused individuals.
What Makes Us Different?
We don’t just teach kicks and punches—we teach Champions Character. Our unique approach instills essential life skills like focus, confidence, leadership, and resilience, ensuring that students grow not only as martial artists but as leaders in life.
Exclusive License Holder – We are the only martial arts academy licensed to teach the globally recognised Leader In Me programme through martial arts.
Led by a Champion – Head instructor Stephen Thompson is a 10-time World Karate Champion with over 30 years of experience teaching both children and adults.
A Legacy of Leadership – Stephen has helped countless families in Gloucester and Cheltenham develop strong, confident, and self-disciplined children.
Not Just for Kids! – Our adult classes offer a dynamic and fun way to get fit, relieve stress, and learn real self-defence skills that could save your life.
At Kicx Academy, we build strong minds, strong bodies, and strong character—one class at a time.
Save 81% with our Exclusive Web Offer
Don’t just take our word for it—see for yourself how we can help your child become the absolute best version of themselves!
Try our Trial Programme, which includes:
✅ A Pre-Evaluation Session to assess your child’s needs and introduce them to our programme.
✅ Two Weeks of Lessons—the perfect way to see firsthand how we build focus, confidence, and leadership.
✅ A Champions Medal 🏅—awarded when your child demonstrates great listening skills. This isn’t given—it’s earned, and most children achieve it on day one!
This is the best way to experience our unique approach and discover how we mentor and guide kids to success. But hurry—spaces are limited!
Get more details today—just leave your info, and we’ll send everything you need to know!
Karate Kids - The Champions Character Difference
At Kicx Academy, we do things differently. While most martial arts schools focus solely on teaching kicks and punches, we focus on developing the whole child—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Our Champions Character Programme is designed to help children build focus, strong listening skills, and a positive attitude—the foundation for success in martial arts, school, and life.
Why Mentorship Matters
Children thrive when they are guided, encouraged, and mentored—not just instructed. That’s why, at Kicx Academy, we go beyond just teaching martial arts moves. Every child is supported by their instructors, who help them develop:
✅ Focus – Learning to pay attention, follow instructions, and block out distractions.
✅ Attitude – Understanding that effort, respect, and a positive mindset create success.
✅ Self-Belief – Realizing that challenges can be overcome with practice and perseverance.
More Than a Class – A Transformational Experience!
Our structured approach ensures that every student receives consistent mentorship, feedback, and encouragement. We’re not just creating great martial artists—we’re helping children become leaders in life.
Champions Character isn’t just a programme—it’s a pathway to confidence, discipline, and success.
Ready to experience the Kicx difference? Let’s help your child unlock their potential!
Champions Character is built on three core pillars that work together to help children grow, both inside and out:
✅ Mentorship – Every student is personally guided and supported to help them achieve success, both in and out of class.
✅ Leader In Me Life – A tailored personal development system that helps children build confidence, focus, and leadership skills, ensuring they grow from the inside out.
✅ Martial Arts – More than just kicking and punching—martial arts is the seatbelt that keeps kids safe and strong. Just like you wouldn’t drive without buckling up, we teach self-protection not because we expect trouble, but so our children are prepared for anything.
Together, these three elements create confident, focused, and resilient leaders—ready to take on life’s challenges! 🚀🥋
"We don't just talk about building confidence; we're pioneering the way with a groundbreaking programme unique to our martial arts school. Through The Champions Character Programme, we're dedicated to nurturing greatness in your child like no other martial arts school in the UK."
Adult and Family Classes
At Kicx, our mission is to not only refine your martial arts prowess but also equip adults with the tools for personal and professional triumphs. That's why we've seamlessly integrated "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Signature Edition 4.0" programme into our training—a groundbreaking curriculum tailored to empower adults on their journey to holistic growth and success, all while learning self defence. Below is a video of the founder of the programme, Stephen Covey talking about the Habit 7, sharpening the saw. Before you watch it though, have a read about...
🧠 Igniting Personal Development:
The 7 Habits isn't just a course; it's a transformative journey towards personal growth and leadership mastery. By embracing these timeless principles, adults enhance their martial arts skills while cultivating essential life skills vital for navigating their careers, relationships, and overall fulfillment.
🥋 Empowerment Through Martial Arts:
Martial arts serves as the perfect platform for embodying the principles of The 7 Habits It's not just about physical prowess; it's about fostering mental resilience, discipline, and a profound sense of personal responsibility—core tenets of the programme. Earning a Black Belt in the martial is more than just taking a test, it is about becoming a black belt, physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally.
🚀 Nurturing Confidence and Character:
We've witnessed firsthand how this programme nurtures confidence and shapes character. As adults prioritise self-care, set meaningful goals, and cultivate balance, they develop resilience and adaptability—essential traits for excelling in martial arts and beyond.
💡 Building Blocks for Achievement:
By integrating The 7 Habits into our martial arts curriculum, we're laying a solid foundation for adult learners. They don't just master combat techniques; they also gain profound insights into accountability, collaboration, and effective leadership.
🌈 Dynamic Learning Environment:
Learning should be dynamic and enjoyable. That's why our classes are designed to be interactive, stimulating, and, above all, enjoyable! We believe that when adults relish the learning process, they absorb and apply life's invaluable lessons more effectively.
🌈 Daily Private Victory (Habit 7 Sharpen the saw)
The "Daily Private Victory" refers to the daily practice of proactive habits that lead to personal growth and effectiveness. It involves committing to habits and behaviors that align with the first three habits:
1. Be Proactive: Taking responsibility for one's own actions and choices, rather than being reactive to external circumstances.
2. Begin with the End in Mind: Setting clear goals and priorities based on personal values and long-term vision.
3. Put First Things First: Focusing on important, non-urgent tasks and activities that contribute to long-term goals, rather than getting bogged down by urgent but less important tasks.
The concept of the Daily Private Victory emphasises the importance of consistently practicing these habits on a daily basis to achieve personal effectiveness and fulfillment. It involves self-discipline, self-awareness, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
By mastering the Daily Private Victory, individuals lay the foundation for success in both their personal and professional lives. (watch the video below)
Join us at Kicx as we embark on an empowering journey, where martial arts and leadership skills intersect seamlessly.
Explore our programmes today and experience firsthand the transformative power of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Signature Edition 4.0."
All Taught is a SUPER CENTRE in Churchdown Gloucester
Our Studio is set in a 3 Acre plot. We have ample FREE parking and are on the local bus route.
Fully Matted with Super Mat, the BEST mats money can buy
Parent viewing area is fully seated so you can stay and watch the class in comfort
Motivational posters all around the studio to help students with important life skills
A smart board to help everyone engage with our incredible App
Training equipment to help the students have fun and learn
Pictures from our Studio
Head Teacher
Stephen Thompson 10x World Karate Champion
7th Degree Black Belt
Leadership & Character Development Coach
With over four decades of experience in martial arts, I am a former 10-time World Karate Champion and a 7th Degree Black Belt, dedicated to shaping the next generation of confident, focused, and resilient individuals.
As a certified teacher of The Leader in Me program, I work with schools to enhance their life skills curriculum, empowering children with the tools they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
At Kicx Studio, we specialise in helping children become the best versions of themselves through fun, play, martial arts, and the transformative power of the 7 Habits. Our unique approach builds confidence, focus, and character in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Book a trial with us today—spaces may be available in your child’s age group!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost?
The investment in your training is around £10 per class for our group classes. Can be cheaper! We also offer Private and Semi Private classes. To make payment convenient, we offer various options such as monthly or termly plans. We decide on the best class for you after our trial programme.
How often do I have to train?
In today's busy world, we understand that everyone's schedule is different. Whether you choose to train once a week or twice times, it's entirely up to you. With our app, all the moves are readily available, allowing you to practice at home whenever you like. It's your training journey—tailored to fit your lifestyle."
I am no good at sports normally, can i do this?
Absolutely! The most important thing is taking that first step, regardless of where you begin. Even Master Thompson, who started at age 10, faced challenges along his journey to achieving a Black Belt, including failing two gradings. Yet, he persevered and went on to win multiple gold medals. So, rest assured, you're on the path to greatness—don't let anything hold you back!"
My child has ADHD, Is martial arts ok?
One of the core paradigms prominently displayed on our school's walls is the Paradigm of Leadership, which asserts: EVERYONE CAN BE A LEADER. We embrace an inside-out approach, beginning with nurturing leadership qualities within each individual. By guiding children from dependence to independence within themselves, we believe in bringing out the leader in everyone!
Will doing martial arts turn my child into a bully?
Opposite! Children can kick and punch anyway. How we help your child is by not just showing them how to do the moves, but how to control themselves with it. So if you have a child that kicks everything, this will calm them down
Can I watch my child training?
Absolutely! Our academy offers ample seating for parents to observe classes. It's fantastic having parents watch as they can see firsthand all the moves their children are learning. Plus, with our comprehensive app containing detailed tutorials of all techniques, parents can gain a deeper understanding and better support their child's progress
What do I bring to my first class?
Training is conducted barefoot, so no need to worry about footwear. Dress comfortably in loose clothing that allows for easy movement. Staying hydrated is essential, so be sure to bring water with you. We encourage water in a bottle or sports bottle—no fizzy drinks, please
What styles of martial arts do you teach?
At the outset, everyone begins with Kickboxing and Krav Maga. While elements of Karate are introduced right away, students aren't required to learn Japanese terminology until they reach higher grades. Our focus is on mastering core moves—keeping the emphasis on excellence in training!"
Testimonials From Our Families
Kelly
Kicx is a friendly and welcoming school with a focus on personal development as well as Martial Arts training. Both myself and my son have been training with Master Thompson for many years and can not recommend the school and instructor enough! The Kicx team are absolutely amazing and have become our Martial Arts family.
Augusta
Absolutely fantastic place. My children are in the 4-5 year old class, they are always excited and look forward to going to Kicx Martial Arts every week. Master T is an excellent teacher. He and the team are professional, encouraging and awesome with the children. Would highly recommend.
Rachael
Master Thompson is 'fair, funny and fun', my children say.
They love attending his classes, which are well structured, a good pace and range of activities. I love that he also teaches the 7 habits of happy kids alongside the physical activities, which creates a very rounded environment for them.
Address
Kicx Studio, The Barn, Parton Court, Churchdown, Gloucester, GL3 2JG
© 2025 Company Name - All Rights Reserved, Kicx Studio is run and owned by Stephen Thompson
07888 862225