At Saughall Blades Taekwon-Do, our mission is to inspire students of all ages to grow in confidence, discipline, and strength through the traditional martial art of Taekwon-Do.
We aim to create a welcoming and supportive environment where every student feels encouraged to push their limits, learn new skills, and build lasting resilience—both physically and mentally.
Whether you’re taking your first step into the dojang or continuing your journey toward black belt, we are committed to helping you discover your potential and achieve your personal best through high-quality instruction, respect, and a strong community spirit.
With years of dedicated Taekwon-Do instruction, we understand what students truly need to grow. Our experience in the dojang guides every decision we make, ensuring our classes, teaching methods, and environment support real progress for every student.
At Saughall Blades Taekwon-Do, we keep training purposeful and effective. Every session is designed to challenge, motivate, and encourage students to push their limits while feeling supported. We stay committed to helping each person train smarter, grow stronger, and achieve their goals.
Mr Harris began his Taekwon-Do journey in 1987, training under Mr Les Vincent as part of the Singapore Taekwon-Do Association during a period when the art was first being introduced across the region.
After two years he broadened his martial arts experience through Shotokan Karate, followed by several years of Ju-Jitsu, and later Tai Chi. In 1996 he returned to Taekwon-Do, training in Beckenham under Mr George Daley within the UKTA, before moving back to Chester in 2003 where he continued his progression under Mrs Helen Bennett.
In 2012 Tony founded his own school in Chester, joining ACE Taekwon-Do due to its close affiliation with Pioneer Rhee, the First Grand Master.
He has International Instructor status and achieved his 5th Dan in September 2025. He remains dedicated to continually deepening his knowledge, refining his skills, and passing on the most effective principles of Human Self-Defence Art Movements to his students.
Mr Cavanagh began his Taekwon-Do journey in 2012 with the founding of the Saughall Blades and has trained under Mr Harris ever since.
Over the years he has established himself as an outstanding ACE Taekwon-Do practitioner, taking part in numerous seminars and gradings overseen by senior Grand Masters.
He currently holds the rank of 2nd Dan Black Belt and is a recognised National Instructor, committed to developing his skills and supporting students in their own Taekwon-Do progression.
School Background
The school was founded in 2012 by Anthony Harris and originally operated from the Saughall Scout Hut before relocating to the Vernon Institute following a fire at the original venue. Since then, the school has grown into a respected and active part of the international Taekwon-Do community, regularly hosting events attended by Grand Masters, Masters and senior practitioners from across the UK and around the world. Over the years, we have trained many students to Black Belt and beyond, and as members of ACE Taekwon-Do we hold the closest possible affiliation to Pioneer Rhee. This affiliation ensures that our grades and qualifications are recognised globally and are never in question — Pioneer Rhee himself is acknowledged worldwide and was described by General Choi, the founder of Taekwon-Do, as “the best ever student of Taekwon-Do.”
We follow ITF Taekwon-Do, the traditional and more martial form of the art, distinct from the sport-style Taekwondo seen in the Olympics. The school runs an all-age class every Monday from 5:30–6:30pm, offering a fun, family-friendly environment where children can learn alongside parents who may wish to take part. Our senior class, open to adults and students in Year 7 and above, takes place on Thursdays. We also host a wide range of activities including seminars, gradings, community events, social gatherings, and competition opportunities for those who wish to pursue that side of Taekwon-Do.
We are fully committed to safeguarding, and as part of our ACE membership we undertake regular safeguarding and health-and-safety training. All required insurance, policies and procedures are in place to ensure a safe, inclusive and welcoming training environment for all.
Values and Training Philosphy
Our school is built on the core values of Taekwon-Do: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit. We aim to create a training environment where students of all ages feel motivated, supported and challenged. Whether developing confidence, improving fitness, learning practical self-defence or working towards higher grades, every student is encouraged to set personal goals and progress at their own pace. Our philosophy centres on disciplined training, respect for others and the belief that Taekwon-Do should build both character and physical skill.
Who Our Classes Are For
We welcome students of all ages and backgrounds, from complete beginners to experienced martial artists. Children, young people and adults all train within an inclusive, friendly atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to participate fully. Families are invited to train together in our all-age class, while older students and adults can further their training in our dedicated senior class. Whether you are looking for fitness, confidence, discipline, self-defence skills or simply a new challenge, our classes offer something for everyone.
What to Expect in a Typical Session
Each lesson is structured to balance technical development, physical conditioning and practical self-defence. A typical session includes warm-ups, fundamental movements, patterns (tuls), sparring drills, partner work, step-sparring and controlled practice of self-defence techniques. Students also learn the theory behind Taekwon-Do, helping them understand the principles that guide each movement. Sessions are carefully paced so students can build confidence while continually improving their skills.
Community Involvement
We aim to play a positive role within the local community, participating in village events, demonstrations, charity fundraisers and community festivals. Our school encourages a strong, supportive culture where students look out for one another and help promote the values of Taekwon-Do outside the training hall. We believe martial arts should contribute to the wellbeing of the wider community as well as to the personal growth of each individual student.
Joining Information
New students are welcome at any time and can try their first classes with no obligation. Beginners do not need special equipment to start — comfortable clothing and an open mind are all that’s required. Our instructors are always available to answer questions, help newcomers settle in and offer guidance on equipment, uniforms and membership. Whether training for fitness, confidence or progression through the belt system, students will find a friendly and supportive environment from day one.
Safeguarding Commitment
We take safeguarding extremely seriously and adhere to nationally recognised standards to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students. As part of our ACE membership, we maintain up-to-date safeguarding qualifications and health-and-safety training, alongside full insurance and compliance with all required policies and procedures. Parents and students can be confident that our classes offer a secure, respectful and well-supervised environment.
Train with supportive instructors and discover what you’re truly capable of.