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Harnessing judo for youth development in hard-to-reach communities: case studies from UK schools and clubs
Roberts, Karen Prescott, Katie Blanes, Richard Craig, Louisa Buckle, Kelly Scobbie, David Moffat, Aidan Bieniek, Bartosz
Roberts, Karen
Prescott, Katie
Blanes, Richard
Craig, Louisa
Buckle, Kelly
Scobbie, David
Moffat, Aidan
Bieniek, Bartosz
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2025-11-12
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Abstract
Combat sports such as judo are increasingly recognised as effective vehicles for supporting youth development, particularly among young people facing disadvantages, behavioural challenges, or social exclusion. This paper synthesises case study evidence from judo-based interventions delivered between 2022 and 2024 across schools and communities in five UK regions (Clacton, Leicester, Wolverhampton, Surrey, and Perth). Judo was used as an everyday vehicle for engagement rather than as a controlled experimental intervention. The interventions engaged over 120 children and adolescents (aged 8–17) identified as at risk of exclusion, low in confidence, or with limited access to sport. Data sources included attendance and behaviour records, student and staff reflections, and parental testimonies. Findings consistently highlighted improvements in emotional regulation, confidence, peer relationships, and school engagement. For example, one school reported a 75% reduction in suspensions following the programme, while others observed participants joining local judo clubs after initial exposure. The results demonstrate the value of judo as a low-cost, scalable, and inclusive intervention aligned with educational and public health priorities. Importantly, they illustrate how the structured challenge, discipline, and respect embedded in judo can foster resilience and belonging among hard-to-reach youth. These practice-led insights support further co-constructed research into the long-term educational, psychological, and community impacts of judo-based interventions.
Citation
Cloak, R., Lane, A., Roberts, K. et al. (2025) Harnessing judo for youth development in hard-to-reach communities: case studies from UK schools and clubs, in Sertić, H., Segedi, I. & Čorak, S. (eds.) Proceedings book, 8th Scientific and Professional Conference, "Applicable research in judo", 12th-13th November 2025. Zagreb, Croatia, pp. 159-163.
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en
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This is an author's accepted manuscript of a paper published in the proceedings of the 8th Scientific and Professional Conference, "Applicable research in Judo", 12th-13th November 2025. Zagreb, Croatia, organised by the University of Zagreb Faculty of Kinesiology, European Judo Union, Croation Judo Union. Proceedings available online: https://www.eju.net/online-publications-of-the-8th-scientific-conference/
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9789533170916