Martial Arts Lessons| In Beeston, Leeds AEGIS Leeds South
LEEDS SOUTH INSTRUCTORS
Your AEGIS Instructor Team
SENIOR MASTER KARA MITCHELL
Owner & Chief Instructor
5th degree AEGIS Black Belt
I began my AEGIS journey in 2012 as a student at the West Leeds AEGIS academy. My original goals were to improve my confidence, maintain my fitness levels and also know I had the skills to defend myself should the need ever arise.
I quickly discovered I had a passion for the martial arts and after 3 years of training as a student, I was invited to join the AEGIS Certified Instructor Training program and train as an instructor. I've now been a full time Instructor since 2016, with the first 4 years as Program Director then Chief Instructor at the Leeds West academy.
I have been running the South Leeds AEGIS academy since September 2019, where we have a growing community of AEGIS students of all ages. Martial arts has changed my life for the better in so many ways and it's my goal to pass those same benefits to all my students, no matter their age or ability.

MS ALICE BIRLEY
Program Director
1st Degree Black Belt
I joined AEGIS in the summer of 2021 to build my confidence and spend more time with my family. I had no previous experience, so I was very nervous but also extremely excited. From the very first session, I knew this was something I wanted to commit to.
The welcoming and supportive environment at AEGIS made my journey so much easier. Helping and encouraging others has always been important to me, and through martial arts I discovered how powerful that support can be.
Watching other trainees progress inspired me to explore the instructor programme, and I set my goal of becoming an instructor at a very early stage in my training, and almost three years later I am proud to be a Programme Director. Training at AEGIS has taught me far more than physical skills — it has helped shape me into the best version of myself both inside and outside the academy.
As an instructor, I aim to create a positive, supportive, and motivating environment where every student feels confident, capable, and encouraged to challenge themselves. I understand how intimidating starting martial arts can be, and I’m passionate about helping students build confidence, discipline, and belief in themselves. I’m excited to continue growing, teaching, and supporting others on their own journeys.

MR STEVE DA SILVA
Program Director
With AEGIS having a great family environment and also being so effective for child and adult development, my nephew was first to join. Later down the line, since I was so impressed; I decided to jump on the mats with him.
I loved being part of AEGIS and taking part in classes, so I decided to take on the journey of becoming an instructor. I could see how much of a difference it made to each individual and family so I wanted to be a part of that!
I've been growing more and more into the role as an instructor, with the help of the instructing team (and the 3 other AEGIS academics in Leeds). It's been a wonderful and truly educational experience which I'm looking forward to carrying on.
Me and the instructing team aim to make positive impacts on people's lives through martial arts, and watching more and more people gain the benefits of being a member of the AEGIS family is wonderful to see!

GUEST INSTUCTORS




SENIOR MASTER M GILBERTSON
6th degree AEGIS Black Belt Instructor
MASTER A GIBSON
4th degree AEGIS Black Belt Instructor
MASTER D OUGHTON
4th degree AEGIS Black Belt Instructor
SENIOR MASTER B TASKER
5th degree AEGIS Black Belt Instructor
