Ages 7–11 • Confidence • Fitness • Self-Defence
A structured, fun martial arts programme for children aged 7–11. Building confidence, fitness, focus, and strong character in a safe and welcoming environment.
Junior Jiu Jitsu in Exeter
Our Junior Jiu Jitsu programme at Exeter Martial Arts is designed for children aged 7–11, offering structured, age-appropriate martial arts training that builds confidence, fitness, focus, and strong character. More than just martial arts — it’s about helping children grow.
Whether your child is new to martial arts or progressing from our Little Lions programme, Junior Jiu Jitsu provides a positive, encouraging environment where children thrive.


The Programme
Junior Jiu Jitsu draws on Traditional Jiu Jitsu as its core, with elements of Kickboxing, Karate, BJJ, and Judo integrated in an age-appropriate, structured format. Children are challenged at the right level, progressing through a clear grading system as they build skill and confidence.
Every class develops:
Learning jiu jitsu is not just about learning physical techniques, it builds the skills, values and mindset children carry for life
Who It’s For
Children aged 7–11 in Exeter — complete beginners and those progressing from our Little Lions programme. No experience is needed. Junior Jiu Jitsu is ideal for children who want to:
Your First Classes
Your child’s first sessions are fun, structured, and encouraging — designed to build confidence from day one. They’ll experience:

Expert Coaching
Chief Instructor — BJJAGB 7th Dan
Rich is a Level 4 Coach and has over 30 years of experience teaching martial arts in Exeter, including extensive work with children across all age groups. He creates an environment where every child feels safe, respected, and genuinely excited to come back to training.
“Children at this age are capable of so much more than they realise. Our job is to show them that — and watch them surprise themselves.”
BJJAGB 3rd Dan — Level 3 Coach
Damien has trained at EMA for 15 years and brings a calm, clear teaching style that works brilliantly with children. A Modern Languages Professor at Exeter University, he has a talent for breaking down complex ideas into steps that children genuinely understand and enjoy.
“When a child ‘gets it’ for the first time — that moment of realisation — that’s what this is all about.”
Why Choose EMA
Parents across Exeter trust us because we deliver results that go beyond the mat:
We are proud to have many adult students who started with us as Junior members — grown into confident, capable martial artists.
The Results
Students regularly report:
Junior Jiu Jitsu develops the whole child — physically, mentally, and in character.
Getting Started
No experience needed. Wear comfortable sports clothes and bring a water bottle. Arrive 5–10 minutes early and we’ll take care of the rest. Parents are welcome to watch from our viewing area.
We’ll guide you through everything else.
Free Taster
The best way to discover Junior Jiu Jitsu is for your child to experience it. The free taster class includes:
Take the First Step
Give your child the gift of confidence, fitness, and real skills. Book a free trial at Exeter Martial Arts today — no pressure, no commitment, just come and try it.
Common Questions
Yes. Our classes are designed specifically to welcome beginners aged 7–11. No experience is needed — everything is taught step-by-step in a safe, encouraging environment.
Safety is our top priority. All instructors are DBS-checked with first aid training. Classes are structured, supervised, and always age-appropriate.
Exeter Martial Arts runs dedicated Junior Jiu Jitsu classes at our Exeter dojo for children aged 7–11. We welcome complete beginners and children progressing from our Little Lions programme.
Traditional Jiu Jitsu forms the foundation, with elements of Kickboxing, Karate, BJJ, and Judo integrated at an age-appropriate level. Children get a well-rounded grounding across multiple disciplines.
Parents regularly tell us their children are more focused, better behaved, and more confident at school after joining. The discipline, respect, and resilience taught in class transfers directly into everyday life.
Yes. Parents and family are always welcome to watch from our viewing area, which has Wi-Fi and coffee facilities. We love having parents involved and seeing their children progress.