Portland’S Takemusu Shinzen – Tanren Dojo - saw its students enjoy grading success.

All students performed exceptionally, especially as the standard and expectations were high of Sensei Jason Bird.

The Dojo teaches traditional Takemusu Aikido and IaiJutsu (Japanese swordsmanship).

Evie Bird, the youngest member of the Dojo, performed well considering her age of six and gained her first grade belt of white sixth kyu.

Even though being the daughter of Sensei Bird, she is not given any special treatment and has to train as hard the rest.

Other younger students, Bronya Stagg, Phillippa Taylor, Simon Hayes and of special note, Kelson Avery, graded to a high standard.

Avery, who has been at the Dojo for around six years, was surprised when he was asked to show his ability in two junior grades and his first adult grade test.

He will now be moved to other classes within the Dojo and start to learn more technically advanced techniques.

He now holds a junior Brown Belt first kyu.

Steve and Greg Bucke, and Gytis Simkus graded for 2nd kyu Blue Belts, which was a long and hard test, with lots of empty-handed (Taijutsu) and weapons (Bukiwaza).

The Dojo only grades once a year, something which Sensei Bird is proud of as he does not believe in quick fixes or fast track learning.

The Dojo can be found at the rear of the Brackenbury Centre on Portland, next to the Underhill Methodist Church.

It enjoys the use of its own space and provides eight lessons a week for its students.

The Dojo and its mat space also can be hired for £5 per hour for other classes like Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates etc.

To contact the Dojo telephone 07849315748 or 824076 or alternativbely email tanrendojo@me.com or visit their website shimaryu31