Meet Sensei Jazz McLearie

Jazz’s involvement with martial arts began in 2001, when she originally studied Kung Fu and Kick Boxing under the organisation I.K.B.K.F.O., achieving her Brown Belt in Kung Fu and Blue Belt in Kick Boxing.

However, she changed disciplines to take up Shotokan Karate in January 2006, to support her daughter Catherine McLearie, who had enrolled in Can Do’s class at Blewbury Primary School. Can Do operates very much as a family orientated club, so it was no surprise when her younger daughter, Rachel, also enrolled in 2007.

Jazz has been assistant Sempei for over a year, and achieved her 1^st Dan Black Belt in March 2009. She is looking forward to Catherine joining her later this year (with Rachel to follow).

Jazz’s experience as a secondary school Teaching Assistant, together with her former role as a Police Officer with Thames Valley Police, further enhanced her abilities in instilling the skills and disciplines of Shotokan Karate, particularly with younger students.

Outside of Karate, her hobbies include photography, playing drums and violin, and watching cricket.