About Us – Japanese Swordsmanship with David Thatcher

Our dojo is led by David Thatcher, a highly respected instructor with over 42 years of experience in traditional Japanese martial arts. A former national and European champion, David brings not only skill and knowledge but also a passion for sharing the spirit of the samurai. Whether you’re new to martial arts or already experienced, our dojo offers a welcoming place to learn, train, and grow.

David has dedicated more than four decades to studying and teaching Japanese swordsmanship. His martial arts journey has taken him from the UK to Japan, where he trained and graded under some of the most respected masters. This depth of experience shapes every class he teaches, ensuring students receive both authentic tradition and practical guidance.

Accomplishments and Championships

David’s achievements are recognised throughout the UK and Europe. Highlights of his career include:

Former British Iaido Champion (British Kendo Federation)
Former European Iaido Champion (European Kendo Federation)
British Iaido Team Member – European Championship Team Winners
Bowden Kendo Cup Winner (British Kendo Association)
Kendo-No-Kata Champion (British Kendo Association)
6th Dan Shihan

Teaching Excellence and Qualifications

David combines martial arts mastery with professional teaching expertise, ensuring a safe and structured environment for every student. His qualifications include:

PTLLS – Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector
Martial Arts Industry Association Diploma – Martial Arts School Business Management
DipSM – Diploma in Safety Management

Sword Styles Taught

Students at the dojo can study a range of authentic Japanese sword arts, guided by David’s expertise:

Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu Iaido
Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido
Toyama Ryu Battodo

A Dojo for Everyone

David believes that Japanese swordsmanship is for everyone. His teaching goes beyond technique—helping students build confidence, discipline, mindfulness, and respect. Whether you want to explore the cultural traditions of the samurai or develop strong martial skills, our dojo is a place where tradition and personal growth come together.

Acknowledgements

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the teachers who have instructed, guided, and inspired me throughout my martial arts journey. Each has shared not only their skill and knowledge, but also their spirit, discipline, and humility — qualities that continue to shape my own practice and teaching.

Yamaguchi Katsuo (RIP) Meijin 10th Dan in Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu Iaido and Hanshi 9th Dan in Kendo

Jock Hopson 7th Dan Kyoshi instructor in Kendo, Iaido, and Jodo
Eishikan Dojo

Chris Buxton (RIP) 7th Dan Kyoshi Iaido. Eishikan Dojo

Derek Raybould Kendo 6th Dan
Malcolm Goodwin Kendo 7th Dan
Nagamitsu Dojo

John Maki Evans, 7th Dan in Nakamura Ryu Battodo
Fudokan Dojo

To each of these teachers, I offer my sincere thanks and enduring respect.