Instructors

Simon Thackeray: Started training in Aikido in 1980 and in August 2004 attained the grade of 5th dan in the Institute of Aikido, a founder member organisation of the British Aikido Board. He has been teaching Aikido at Reading University since 1985, is recognised as a Senior Coach by the British Aikido Board and is a Technical Assistant in the Institute of Aikido.

He is a student of Mr. H. Foster 7th dan (IA), Technical Director of the Institute of Aikido and has also attended many courses with other high ranking English, American and Japanese teachers. He teaches at the annual Institute of Aikido Summer School and has accompanied Mr. Foster on teaching tours of New Zealand.

“I believe in the need for strong basic technique and practise with the bokken and jo as a foundation for good Aikido. I am obsessive about technical accuracy and inculcating an understanding of the principles of the art. I enjoy passing on whatever understanding I have to whoever is prepared to take any notice.”

Assistant Instructors:

Tricia Matthews: Started her training at Reading in 1993 and attained the grade of 3rd dan in August 2005. She is recognised as a Coach Level 1 by the British Aikido Board and started teaching at Reading in 1997. Currently teaching the friday training

Andrew Stoute (RUSU aikido club):  1st dan and British Aikido Board  Coach Level 1. Currently hosts a "free practise" for an hour before sundays regular training (depending on demand).

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