Instructors

Mr John Bowman‑Yard

Instructor – Stanwick Taekwon‑Do & GTUK England Team Coach

• Rank: 5th Degree Black Belt

• Experience: Senior GTUK instructor with extensive teaching experience across all ages and abilities. His journey includes serving as a Current England Team Coach for the GTUK National Team, becoming a World Champion in Sparring and Power Breaking. Multiple European Champion and multiple British and Scottish National Champion.  Mr Bowman has also coached athletes who have gone on to achieve success at both national and international level. This depth of experience gives every student access to world‑class knowledge delivered in a friendly, down-to-earth way that supports growth at every stage of their Taekwon‑Do journey.

• Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS‑checked, first‑aid trained, and fully compliant with BTC safeguarding standards

Mrs Gemma Bowman‑Yard

Instructor – Stanwick Taekwon‑Do & GTUK England Team Member

• Rank: 3rd Degree Black Belt

• Experience: Mrs Bowman brings a wealth of experience to Stanwick Taekwon‑Do, combining competitive success with a deep commitment to student welfare and development. As a Two Times British Champion, she has proven her skill at national level, and she now uses that expertise to support and inspire the next generation of martial artists.  Alongside her technical ability, Mrs Bowman serves as the Lead Safeguarding Officer for the GTUK, overseeing welfare standards across all GTUK clubs and ensuring that every student trains in a safe, supportive environment.  Mrs Bowman specialises in under‑twelve development, creating sessions that build confidence, coordination and discipline while keeping training fun and engaging. Her blend of Safeguarding leadership, competitive experience and child‑centred coaching makes her an invaluable part of the Stanwick TKD team.

• Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS‑checked, first‑aid trained, and fully compliant with BTC safeguarding standards 

Mr Ellis Harper

Assistant Instructor – Stanwick Taekwon‑Do

Instructor – Stanwick Taekwon‑Do & GTUK England Team Member

• Rank: 3rd Degree Black Belt

• Experience: Mr Harper has been an integral part of Stanwick Taekwon‑Do since the day the club opened. As one of our longest‑serving assistant instructors, Mr Harper brings a combination of technical skill, competitive experience, and genuine passion for helping students grow.  A current British Champion and an active member of the GTUK England Team, Mr Harper trains and competes at the highest level, representing both the club and the country with professionalism and determination. His experience on the national and international stage brings invaluable insight to every class he supports.  Mr Harper is known for his calm, encouraging teaching style and his ability to connect with students of all ages. Whether he is coaching patterns, sparring, or helping newer members build confidence, he consistently sets the standard for discipline, effort, and attitude.

Miss Laura Vanaga

Assistant Instructor – Stanwick Taekwon‑Do & GTUK England Team Member

• Rank: 1st Degree Black Belt

• Experience: Miss Vanaga is one of Stanwick Taekwon‑Do’s true success stories. She began her martial arts journey with us as a white belt six years ago, and through sheer determination, consistency, and an exceptional work ethic, she has risen to become one of the club’s standout young talents.  Her competitive achievements speak for themselves. Miss Vanaga has secured multiple British Titles and is a European Champion, proving that age is no barrier when passion and commitment come together. She trains with focus, competes with courage, and represents the club with maturity beyond her years.  In addition to her success on the mats, Laura is a natural with our younger students. She brings patience, positivity, and a genuine enthusiasm for helping children learn and grow.