Another Summer School over. Congratulations to all those who graded and achieved their promotions. We had the pleasure this year of welcoming Piers Cooke Sensei (Chairperson of the BAB). Cooke Sensei instructed on the Thursday afternoon of the summer school and was with us on the Friday grading day seated with Soke Jones during the gradings. On behalf of Soke Jones and the SGT Executive committee we would like to thank Cooke Sensei for an interesting and enjoyable session, and we all hope to see him again very soon.
Check out the feedback from the society members on how successful SS26 was below:
Quality of Instruction
Participants consistently praised the knowledge, experience, and welcoming attitude of the instructors. Teaching throughout the week was described as dynamic, powerful, varied, and clearly explained, with each instructor bringing their own valuable perspective.
Soke Gwynne Jones received particular appreciation for his ability to break down techniques into clear, manageable steps, his inspirational presence, and the positive energy he sets for the whole group.
Atmosphere & Community
The summer school was repeatedly described as:
- Friendly
- Welcoming
- Supportive
- Full of camaraderie and good feeling
Members felt comfortable training at their own level, even when managing injuries. Many enjoyed meeting new people and training with aikidoka of all grades.
Training Experience
- Members found ukes to be helpful, patient, and skilled, improving technique and confidence.
- Training with higher‑skilled members boosted personal development.
- Several participants noted steady improvement across the week.
- Specific sessions (e.g., relaxation work, alternative teaching styles) were highlighted as especially valuable.
Grading Feedback
Members expressed gratitude for the instruction and guidance that supported successful gradings, including higher‑level passes.
General Impressions
Overall impressions were extremely positive:
- “Excellent summer school”
- “Best in years”
- “Friendly and welcoming atmosphere”
- “Always excited to attend Shin Gi Tai courses”
- “A knowledgeable and inspirational teaching team”
Many felt lucky to train under Soke Gwynne Jones and the instructors who follow his example.
Committee Elections
Congratulations to the following members on their election and re-election to the committee:
Martin Dennehy – re-elected as Chairperson
Heidi Hancock – re-elected as Treasurer
Peyton Clemas – re-elected as Dojo rep
Andrew Hopkins – elected as Dojo Rep
Congratulations
Amongst all well deserving promotions this summer school there was one very well deserved promotion.
Jeff Jones Shihan has been with the Shin Gi Tai and Soke Jones for many decades. This summer school he was awarded his 7th dan. A complete surprise following an excellent demonstration showcasing the fundamentals of Shin Gi Tai Aikido and the amazing, calm and controlled Aikido of Jeff Jones Shihan (pictured below).
