Rochdale Teenager Qualifies as Karate Sensei in “Rare” Career Move

Rochdale, Greater Manchester — A local teenager has officially been named a Sensei after completing an intensive coaching programme at the Dojo Karate Centre, marking the beginning of what instructors describe as a promising career in martial arts.

Diya Kerai, a dedicated student at the centre, was recently presented with her dojo instructor certificate during a coaching seminar. The qualification, which is typically valued at several thousand pounds, was awarded to Diya free of charge following her successful completion of the centre’s rigorous in-house training scheme.

The achievement is considered rare, particularly for a teenager, and follows months of comprehensive assessments. The curriculum went far beyond the dojo mats, covering essential practical skills including first aid training, safeguarding certification, risk assessment evaluations, and situational-based teaching tests.

The programme is designed to simulate real-world teaching scenarios, placing a strong emphasis on communication, health and safety, and inclusive instruction to ensure new coaches can lead classes for students of all ages and abilities.

Hanshi Irfan Ansari, the lead instructor at the Dojo Karate Centre, praised Diya’s unwavering commitment to excellence throughout the process. Her success has also been warmly celebrated by her parents, who provided support throughout her journey.

The Dojo Karate Centre’s coaching programme accepts a small number of candidates each year, aiming to cultivate the next generation of martial arts instructors by combining technical mastery with teaching practice and pastoral care responsibilities.