Birmingham entrepreneur adds third school to growing regional network

Birmingham-based martial arts entrepreneur Neil Miles is pressing ahead with expansion across the Midlands, launching a new Wednesday evening class in Smethwick on 24 June as part of his growing network of Matt Fiddes Martial Arts franchise schools.

The new venue at Uplands Manor Primary School becomes the third addition to his regional operation, joining established classes in Longbridge and Redditch following strong demand from local families.

Miles, who has spent years developing martial arts schools across the UK, said: “We’ve built our schools around confidence-building, discipline and life skills as much as martial arts.

“Parents want activities that genuinely help their children socially and emotionally, and that’s exactly what our programme is designed to do.”

Building more than black belts

The classes sit within the internationally recognised Matt Fiddes Martial Arts organisation, founded by former Michael Jackson bodyguard Matt Fiddes, which now operates more than 2,000 schools worldwide.

Its award-winning life skills programme covers anti-bullying awareness, self-defence and leadership training.

Miles said: “Students progress through their belts in a fun, supportive environment where learning confidence, respect and resilience becomes natural.

“By the time students reach black belt level, many are already developing leadership skills.”

Parents at the Longbridge and Redditch schools have already reported improvements in confidence, focus and behaviour. The Smethwick classes are open to beginners of all ages and abilities.