About Elite Taekwon-Do NI
Elite Taekwon-Do NI is an ITF Taekwon-Do club based in Bangor and Belfast, Northern Ireland. Founded in 2024, the club provides structured martial arts training for children, teenagers and adults in a supportive environment led by experienced black belt instructors.
High-Quality Training For Everyone
Elite Taekwon-Do NI offers structured ITF Taekwon-Do classes for children, teenagers and adults. Training focuses on discipline, confidence and strong technical skills while helping students develop fitness and self-defence ability.
Excellence in every kick
Traditional ITFWhat We Offer in Elite Taekwon-Do NI
We currently run 8 classes per week across our Bangor and Belfast locations, offering training for different ages and experience levels.Elite Taekwon-Do NI is a proud member of the Irish Taekwon-Do Association (ITA) under the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF). All training and gradings follow the official ITF syllabus, ensuring structured progression and recognised standards.
ITA & ITF GLOBAL FEDERATION
Proudly Affiliated WithKids Taekwon-Do
Structured classes for children aged 5+ that develop coordination, confidence and discipline while learning the fundamentals of Taekwon-Do.
Kick-Fit
High-energy fitness sessions combining martial arts techniques with conditioning drills.
Advanced Training
Designed for blue belts and above, focusing on sparring, patterns and higher-level technical development.
Family Classes
Parents and children can train together in a supportive Taekwon-Do class suitable for different ages.
Experienced & Trusted Instructors
MR. DEAN PRITCHARD
Head Coach, 4th Degree Black BeltDean began training in Taekwon-Do in 2010, earning his 1st Degree Black Belt in 2013, 2nd in 2017, 3rd in 2021 and 4th Degree in 2025. A former Irish and British champion in sparring, patterns, and special technique, he has competed internationally in Mexico, Holland, Estonia, Italy, Belarus, and Greece. Dean is passionate about creating a friendly and welcoming environment, helping each student grow in skill, confidence, and character
MR. KARL SHAW
4th Degree Black BeltMr. Karl Shaw is a 4th Dan Black Belt in Taekwon-Do. He began his Taekwon-Do journey back in 2006. He was a member of the Northern Ireland National Team from 2016 to 2019, competing at both European and World Championship levels. Over the years, he has earned numerous medals in Sparring and Patterns across Ireland, the United Kingdom, Netherlands and Mexico.
Mr. Shaw achieved his 1st Degree Black Belt in 2012, followed by his 2nd Degree in 2016, 3rd Degree in 2018, and was promoted to 4th Degree in 2022 during an International Instructor Course (IIC) held in Belfast.
Following his competitive career, Mr. Shaw transitioned to umpiring and became the lead umpire representing Northern Ireland at international championships. Since 2017, he has been actively teaching Taekwon-Do, developing multiple national and international champions. He remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Taekwon-Do athletes.
Our Core Values
Elite Taekwon-Do NI focuses on developing both martial arts skills and personal character. Training encourages discipline, respect and confidence while promoting a positive training environment for students of all ages.
"You don't have to be great to start -
but you have to start to be great."
Everyone starts their journey as a white belt. At Elite Taekwon-Do NI, we pride ourselves on a welcoming atmosphere where beginners are supported at every step. Our instructors ensure you learn at a pace that builds confidence, not frustration.
Beyond Regular Classes
Annual Fight Camp
Annual training camp for older students focused on improving sparring skills, fitness and technical development.
Summer Schemes
Summer holiday programmes for younger students to stay active while learning Taekwon-Do.
Expert Seminars
Special Taekwon-Do seminars held at least once per year with experienced instructors.
Where Elite Taekwon-Do NI Train
Bangor Aurora
Leisure & Aquatic Complex, BangorWe run regular classes at Bangor Aurora Leisure & Aquatic Complex, offering a high-quality training environment for students of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Children can start training from 5 years old in our junior Taekwon-Do classes in both Bangor and Belfast.
Yes! We welcome complete beginners of all ages — whether you’re 5 or 50, you’ll be supported from day one.
Absolutely. Our family classes are designed so parents and kids can train side-by-side, making it a great bonding activity.
Kick-Fit is a high-intensity workout that blends fitness and martial arts. It’s great for improving flexibility, cardio, and overall health — and it’s open to everyone!
Yes. We follow the official ITF syllabus and hold three gradings per year for all eligible students.
Book your free trial class via this form — it’s quick and easy.
Students wear a dobok (white suit) which we can supply. Training is done in bare feet.
In Bangor, we train at Bangor Aurora Aquatic & Leisure Complex. In Belfast, our venue is Girdwood Community Hub.
No — competition is optional. We encourage students to try it when ready, but there’s no pressure to compete.
Ready To Try A Class?
Join a community of dedicated martial artists and start your journey today with a free trial session in Bangor or Belfast.
Book my free trial now