WHAT'S NEW?
Big Changes for 2026!
Summer School will be a little different again this year. It is a little longer than last year, and we aim to pack in plenty of training and events to keep you entertained.
A big change this year is the accommodation arrangements; there are 3 options to choose from, so please read the booking and accommodation information carefully so you book the right accommodation for your needs.
We're Going Paperless
As we don't have the luxury of time this year to welcome you to Summer School and issue your welcome packs in person, we will be emailing you your Welcome Pack and Timetable before you arrive.
This should allow you to head directly to your designated dojo on arrival without too much delay. Of course, you may still need to visit the Office to collect your keys.
The Timetables will be located in the dojos and office as normal and will also be available on the website.
Gradings
At this year's Summer School, we are managing to fit in both Yudansha and Kyu gradings.
These will take place on Friday afternoon for the Kyu gradings, and the morning of Saturday 25th for the Ikkyu and Yudansha gradings. Both will be held in the Old Gym.
Water
Once again, we will be supplying water in the dojos during breaks between morning and afternoon classes.
While plastic cups will be supplied, we suggest that, to reduce plastic waste, you bring your own refillable bottles to help save the planet.
Thursday Night Out
This year, we thought we would try a new social event on the calendar.
After training on Thursday, we are planning on gathering as many of you as possible to take the short walk into Chester, to get some food and maybe a drink or two at the Food Court in the Chester City Market.
The venue is excellent for socialising, and has many food outlets to suit all tastes and appetites.
Come along and make this a night to remember.
Details of the venue can be found here:
Summer School Office
We are located in the same location as last year but just as a reminder, the Summer School Office will be in the Anna Sutton Building. This will be the venue for booking-in and any other Summer School related queries.
You can find us on the Summer School Map or on the University Map (building 17). Alternatively, what3words: jaws:pinch:hints
The office opening hours this year will be:
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Wednesday: 3pm - 7pm
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Thursday: 9am - 12pm
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Friday - Monday: 8am -9.30am
Note
If you are booking-in on Wednesday and encounter difficulties on your trip and may not arrive when the office is open, then contact Steve Parr directly on 07774 862253 so we can make alternative arrangements for you.
Gala Dinner
As Summer School is shorter than in the past, it is imperative that we submit all of the meal choices prior to the event. This is to allow the University Catering Department sufficient time to prepare for the dinner on Sunday evening.
To facilitate this, we will be contacting you nearer Summer School to request your options. Watch out for the email from us.
It is imperative that you respond with your choices. Failure to do so may result in us cancelling your place.
Summer School App
For this year's event, we have created an App for use at Summer School. This will be accessible on your phone and will contain useful information such as maps, timetables, updates, and more.
We will send details for this in your Welcome Packs nearer Summer School
Refurbished Bar
Exciting news! We're thrilled to share that the Student Union Bar has undergone a stunning transformation, both inside and out. Come check out our fresh new look and enjoy an enhanced atmosphere for your social gatherings.
Parking Permits & Lanyards
Once again, Parking Permits will be required to park a vehicle on the University Campus grounds. We will email these to you with your Welcome Pack prior to the start of Summer School.
For security purposes, those attendees staying on the Campus will be issues with lanyards for the duration of the event. These should be worn at all times.
In addition, your lanyard will also act as your pass for breakfast, should your booking entitle you. Without the lanyard you will be asked to pay for breakfast.
Card Payments
If you are arriving at Summer School to train and you haven't pre-booked, this year we are able to take payments by card in the Summer School Office. Similarly, if you wish to buy raffle tickets, you will be able to pay for these by card.
More Updates to Follow
There may be a few more changes to announce once we have things confirmed, watch this space!