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The Black Belt Foundation instructor team in front of the academy logo wall
Meet the team

Meet Our Martial Arts Instructors & Team in Chorley

The people behind every Journey, Quest and grading.

Our people

A Team With A Shared Purpose.

Each of us brings different specialist experience, but we share one goal: helping people develop confidence, skills and a positive approach to personal growth through the TBBF Journeys.

David Whiteside, Founder, Co-Owner & Instructor at The Black Belt Foundation Chorley

David Whiteside

Founder, Co-Owner & Instructor

CQP, MCQI, AIOSH | BMABA Level 2 Instructor | First Aider | IKF Certified Instructor

David founded TBBF and brings extensive experience across martial arts, self-protection and specialist training, from early-years programmes to advanced training.

  • Kapap-Krav Maga
  • Ju-Jitsu
  • Kickboxing
  • Iai-Jutsu
  • Modern & Traditional Weapons
  • Firearms
  • S.E.N.D.
  • Lil Dragons
  • CQS
  • CQB
Andrew Cullen, Instructor & Co-Owner at The Black Belt Foundation Chorley

Andrew Cullen

Instructor & Co-Owner

HND Sport Development & Coaching | BMABA Level 2 Instructor | First Aider | IKF Certified Instructor

Andrew is passionate about inclusive training and supporting students with different abilities and needs. His S.E.N.D. work is central to our commitment to accessible development.

  • Kapap-Krav Maga
  • S.E.N.D.
  • CQS
  • CQB
Andrew Riley, Instructor at The Black Belt Foundation Chorley

Andrew Riley

Instructor

CQP, MCQI, IRCA | BMABA Level 2 Instructor | First Aider | IKF Certified Instructor

Andrew focuses on practical self-protection and close-quarter skills, taught in a structured and supportive environment.

  • Kapap-Krav Maga
  • CQS
  • CQB
Dr James Gillies, Instructor at The Black Belt Foundation Chorley

Dr James Gillies

Instructor

PhD, DIC, BSc Hons, PGDE

James brings a strong academic background and wide knowledge of specialist disciplines, helping students explore new skills with confidence.

  • Kapap-Krav Maga
  • Iai-Jutsu
  • Light Sabre
  • Tai Chi
  • CQS
Graffiti Fielden, Lil Dragons & Pre-School Specialist at The Black Belt Foundation Chorley

Graffiti Fielden

Lil Dragons & Pre-School Specialist

Child Development

Graffiti creates fun, age-appropriate Lil Dragons and pre-school sessions that support young children's physical, social and personal development.

  • Lil Dragons
  • Pre-School
Claire Cullen, Membership Coordinator at The Black Belt Foundation Chorley

Claire Cullen

Membership Coordinator | Party Planner | Events Organiser

Claire makes sure every member feels welcomed and looked after, and brings creativity to our events and celebrations.

Sarah Hodson, Admin Assistant at The Black Belt Foundation Chorley

Sarah Hodson

Admin Assistant | Schools Liaison | Outreach Coordinator

Sarah supports day-to-day administration and builds relationships with schools and community partners, helping us reach more people.

Instructors and students celebrating gradings at The Black Belt Foundation Chorley
Standards you can trust

Qualified. Safeguarded. Committed.

Our instructors complete safeguarding, DBS, first aid and continuing professional development through organisations including BMABA.

Whether you join for martial arts training, a Lil Dragons session, SEND support or one of our community events, our team is here to help you feel part of the community. Explore our training and skill development routes or get in touch.

A Stronger, Brighter You.

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