Meet Our Instructors
Our experienced and supportive instructors are passionate about helping students of all ages build confidence, fitness, and skills in a welcoming environment.
Experienced, Supportive & Welcoming
At Martial Arts East, our instructors are committed to creating a positive and encouraging environment where students can learn, grow, and enjoy their martial arts journey. Whether you are completely new to karate or already have experience, our team is here to support your progress every step of the way.
Danny Jordan-Land
Chief Instructor — 5th Dan Shotokan Karate
Danny began training in 1999 and has been teaching karate since 2003. As founder of Martial Arts East, his goal has always been to create a welcoming and supportive environment where students of all ages and abilities can build confidence, discipline, fitness, and self-belief through martial arts training.
With experience competing locally, nationally, and internationally, Danny has also trained at the JKS headquarters in Japan following the achievement of his 4th Dan. Alongside Shotokan Karate, he has also trained in Jeet Kune Do and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, bringing a wider martial arts perspective to his teaching.
Qualifications & Safeguarding
- BMABA Level 1 Instructor
- BMABA Level 2 Instructor
- DBS checked
- Safeguarding certified
- First aid trained
- Fully insured
Stuart Dunthorne
Senior Instructor — 1st Dan Shotokan Karate
Stuart began training in 2005 and has been teaching karate since 2009. He plays an important role in supporting students of all ages and abilities as they develop confidence, discipline, focus, and skill through consistent training.
Stuart believes karate has the ability to bring out the best in people regardless of age, background, or ability, and brings a supportive and encouraging approach to every class.
Qualifications & Safeguarding
- BMABA Level 1 Instructor
- DBS checked
- Safeguarding certified
- First aid trained
- Fully insured
Julie Brown
Instructor — 1st Dan Shotokan Karate
Julie began training in 2017 and became part of Martial Arts East when the club was established in 2021. After achieving her 1st Dan black belt in 2023, she joined the instructor team in 2025.
Julie is passionate about creating a welcoming and supportive environment where students can build confidence, discipline, fitness, and enjoyment through karate training.
Qualifications & Safeguarding
- BMABA Level 1 Instructor
- DBS checked
- Safeguarding certified
- First aid trained
- Fully insured
Safe & Professional Training
- DBS checked instructors
- Fully insured classes
- First aid trained team
- Safeguarding certified instructors
- Supportive and beginner-friendly environment
We provide a safe, welcoming environment where students of all ages can train with confidence.
Additional Training & Development
Our instructors regularly continue their professional development through BMABA-accredited training and ongoing coaching education. This includes areas such as trauma-informed coaching, mental health awareness and support, inclusive coaching and SEN awareness, injury prevention and concussion management, and wider coaching methods and lesson planning. This ensures our teaching stays current, safe, and supportive for all students.
Our Teaching Approach
At Martial Arts East, we believe karate training should be structured, supportive, and enjoyable for students of all ages and experience levels. Our instructors focus on helping every student progress at their own pace while building confidence, discipline, resilience, and personal growth through training.