SJN academy is an International school of martial arts and associated subjects dedicated to the preservation of the practical, strategic and tactical sciences of the fighting arts. Our values maintain and promote the benefits of proven traditional Chinese Kung Fu in the modern world, through the technical tuition and training of this formidable art with diverse syllabi covering every physical aspe
ct. We cover all subjects in a modern practical manner with the knowledge contained within our art, providing subjects both separately and as a complete authentic system. Modules cover: realistic self- defence, modern tournament training, Classical weaponry, organic ‘Sticky hands’, traditional Lion dance training and Tai Chi for health and wellbeing. Our Vision
Training the fighting arts is a journey which holds incredible value; it is both an exciting and uplifting experience. Anyone may set off on the journey and with enthusiasm and stamina everyone can reach their goals. The path is as long as you are prepared to walk it, with increasing benefits in skill and wisdom that increase the further you travel. Your path ultimately inspires others to take their first steps; with experienced tuition you can be confident your chosen path will continue for as long as you wish to tread. Remember, a journey of a thousand miles begins right in front of your feet! It is our obligation to make your learning journey as rewarding and significant as is possible for all enthusiasts of the martial arts and the many fields available to you with us. We are the SJN academy, which ever direction you take with us, your success will be our common goal. You can be assured
All tuition available is aimed at ensuring the student understands and perceives the technique and its purpose. We endeavor to relate techniques to the individual’s needs and their understanding. We apply the scientific principles of every technique. You will receive every opportunity to ask questions. We provide a relaxed and safe environment for learning. We maintain the continuous practice of the tactics and strategies of genuine kung fu. We support the development of traditional kung fu science tuition. We promote active development for sport participation. We generate confidence in personal defense with simple, practical techniques and advice for awareness of optimum tactics and strategies. W ensure the development of future practice and development through the encouragement of children and young adults. We provide equality to all students based on the willingness, enthusiasm and determination to learn. Our History
Our foundation maintains the style of Lau Sam Ngau, Founder of one of the Kung Fu systems known as the ‘five ancient sects’, namely Lau, Hung, Mok, Choi and Li gar (gar meaning family, sect or society). Lau was a Tiger hunter at the time of the Shao-Lin monastery and learned his skills from a monk, on the run from the new Manchu rulers who had sacked the temple after learning of its support for the old ‘Ming’ dynasty. As a supporter of the old emperor the societies formed secretly to oppose the new rulers and the five sects became synonymous with the struggle to overthrow the new dynasty. Our Founder and Chief instructor learned his Kung Fu from Yau Gum Wah who arrived in the UK from Hong Kong in the early sixties. Consequently Lau became the most successful and widespread single style in the UK. Yau learned his Kung Fu skills from his Grandfather YauLuk Sau, one of the top five Martial arts masters of the time. He learned his art from Hoi Ching and additional skills from Wan Goon Wing who lived with YauLuk Sau until Wan’s death. The British Kung Fu Association was formed in 1972 and Yau Gum Wah was invited to become its Chairman. His long and illustrious leadership and teachings have been an aspiration to thousands of students. In 2001, Yau chose twelve of his most trusted students to become the future ‘Guardians’ of the association and subsequently our head was appointed in that number. In 2003 Our Sifu was awarded ‘Guardians’ man of the year and to this day has been the only holder of that title. The significance of our logo
It is said that often, pathways to the top of a mountain may take many routes yet, when reaching the summit, the view will be the same. Our life long experience as a successful training organisation has brought our academy to that pinnacle of traditional martial arts, leading our teachers and students to the highest attainments. We accept the journey may be long for many but we know it will be fulfilling. Join us now and help us to maintain the scientific principles of the martial arts with a genuine ancient system for future generations. Video instruction
To aid your regular training with us, we provide short video instructions and advice; importantly, not just how to perform an exercise or skill but, why it is required. Simple tutorials cover every aspect from how and why we perform push ups as a primary physical exercise to the development of ‘sticky hands’ or sensitivity training with a partner. Classical Weaponry
Traditional weaponry in martial arts is often lost in nonsensical forms which do not represent realistic fighting strategies. Often a style that has managed to sustain weapon training (and there are few) do not provide the strategies for them; often this is because the training weapons themselves are so light they provide the practitioner with an impressive demonstration skill but little knowledge of the weapon itself of its tactical use. Video aids
Principle exercises
Stick hands
The principle of forms
Interview history
Interview Self defense
Personal tuition
The value of personal tuition for martial arts enthusiasts is many fold; from enhancing your regular practice to a total understanding of the art through the direct attention of your teacher. When your teacher has the experience and the depth of knowledge of our founder and administrator, Sifu S J Newby, you can expect to enjoy a degree of training which will guarantee your knowledge and ability will be accelerated. The Sifu provides personal teaching to anyone who shows an interest and willingness to learn more about his art whether you are a budding instructor or a complete beginner. However, learning in a one to one or small group situation requires one to accept that you will be physically and mentally challenged above and beyond your normal training program. I private student can expect valued explanation of techniques during a continual and repetitive working of the art. You may benefit from ‘fast track’ graduation if you succeed in mastering your practice. Do not expect to perform basic physical exercises as you will be expected to warm up and prove you can perform these of your own accord. Expect an in depth explanation, demonstration and practice of your current skills before you will be granted the opportunity to learn additional curriculum.
