Mission Statement

The British Kendo Association was founded in 1964 as a non-profit making organisation to foster and develop the practise and spirit of Kendo, Iaido, and Jodo along traditional lines, with the objectives of:

• Organising and regulating the Kendo movement on a national international basis;
• Helping to foster related martial arts;
• Promoting Kendoka students to higher dan grades;
• Representing the UK internationally.

The BKA is the only organisation in the UK which is recognised for Kendo, Iaido and Jodo by the Zen Nippon Kendo Renmei (the foremost body in Japan for these martial arts), the International Kendo Federation and Sport England. It is also the only organisation in the UK which is empowered to award dan gradings (black belts) in Kendo, Iaido and Jodo recognised by these bodies.

We have a long-established coaching system to ensure that our instructors have the opportunity to develop good teaching skills. Membership includes excellent insurance cover for both teacher and student.

The BKA prides itself on offering some of the most highly respected and experienced teachers of Kendo, Iaido and Jodo internationally, with several 6th and 7th Dans in all three disciplines.

Patron: His Excellency The Japanese Ambassador
President: John Howell, Kyoshi Nanadan
Vice President: K. Kikuchi, Kyoshi Nanadan
Chairman: Geoff Salmon
Vice Chairman: Gavin Threipland