Chief Instructor
Mr James Dilley V Degree

James Dilley has been training in ITF Taekwon-Do since September 2003, when he first stepped onto the mat as a white belt under Master Andrew Whiteley VIII Degree through the UKTA. The UK's first Taekwon-Do Association established in 1967.

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Over the next two decades he built an ITF Taekwon-Do career in England, as a competitor, as a student of the art, and ultimately as a martial arts instructor dedicated to developing others.

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Competitive Career

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From 2004 to 2025, James competed at the highest levels of ITF Taekwon-Do, accumulating numerous national titles across patterns, sparring and power test.

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In 2011 he claimed his first European bronze medal, having represented England at the ITF European Championships. His competitive background gives him a direct, firsthand understanding of what it takes to perform under pressure, knowledge he brings directly into every martial arts class he teaches in Reading.

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Grades and Credentials

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James has trained under some of the most respected figures in ITF Taekwon-Do:

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• 1st Degree — 2010 under First Grand Master Rhee Ki Ha

• 2nd Degree — 2011 under First Grand Master Rhee Ki Ha

• 3rd Degree — 2013 under UKTA Masters Council

• 4th Degree — 2016 under UKTA Masters Council

• 5th Degree — 2022 under UKTA Masters Council

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His grading lineage runs directly through First Grand Master Rhee Ki Ha, one of the most significant figures in the history of ITF Taekwon-Do worldwide.

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Coaching Career

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James began coaching as early as 2009, learning the craft of conducting martial arts classes and developing students alongside his own competitive training. Over 17 years of coaching experience across multiple clubs gave him a deep understanding of how people learn, progress and stay motivated in martial arts.

In January 2024, after 21 years with his previous organisation, James made the decision to establish Reading Taekwon-Do — his own martial arts school in Reading, Berkshire, built entirely around his vision for what ITF Taekwon-Do instruction should look like.

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The Reading Taekwon-Do Philosophy

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Reading Taekwon-Do exists because James believes that world class ITF Taekwon-Do martial arts instruction should be accessible to anyone in Reading and Berkshire who wants it. Regardless of age, background or starting fitness level.

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Every martial arts class is structured with purpose. Every student receives genuine individual attention. The environment is disciplined but welcoming, serious about technique but never intimidating to beginners.

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The ITF tenets — courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit — are not just words on a wall. They shape how the school operates, how students treat each other, and what the community stands for.

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What Students Say About James

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"James Dilley is the instructor for you. He has the perfect balance of attention to detail, understanding of the physicality of the body, and an ability to create a rapport with anyone. His genuine care for each student makes James an exceptional instructor."

— Spencer Brooks, 4th Degree Black Belt

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"James has an incredible way of connecting with each student, regardless of age or skill level. His passion for martial arts shines through in his classes — he's not just an instructor, he's a mentor and a role model."

— Shon George

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"Mr Dilley is a precise and patient instructor. He is very knowledgeable and generous with sharing helpful information."

— Karishma Bajaria

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Train With Reading Taekwon-Do

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If you're ready to start your ITF Taekwon-Do martial arts journey in Reading, book your 14 day trial for £25 and experience the coaching firsthand.