Governance of GIKF UK

GIKF UK is guided by three principal bodies: the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), the Instructor’s Committee, and the Examination Panel. Together, they uphold tradition, ensure quality, and safeguard the standards of karate practice across the United Kingdom.

Senior Leadership Team (SLT)

• Robert Sidoli – Wales – 8th Dan Shihan Director in Chief (Shibu‑Cho)
• Steven Edwards – England – 7th Dan Shihan Chief Instructor – England
• Carl Gigg – England – 6th Dan Shihan‑Dai
• Paul Simpson – England – 4th Dan Shidoin
• Ben Ervine – England – 3rd Dan Shidoin

Examiner’s Panel

• Eligibility: Only those certified at Sandan and above may sit on Kyu examination panels, following a mentorship period.
• Dan Grade Examiners: Must hold the National Level Diploma.

Instructor’s Committee

The Instructor’s Committee is structured into three levels, each with sub‑categories. All instructors must hold a valid Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate, complete the GIKF UK Instructor’s 40 Theory Modules, and pass a practical examination.

Dojo Level

Mark Silvester – Dojo Level 1 Instructor

• Level 1 – Minimum Shodan. Assists under supervision at dojo level.
• Level 2 – Minimum Shodan. Teaches unsupervised at dojo level, subject to performance checks.

Regional Level

• Level 1 – Minimum Sandan. Leads seminars at County level.
• Level 2 – Minimum Sandan. Leads seminars at County level.

National Level

Steven Edwards (7 Dan) – Regional Level Instructor/Assessor

Carl Gigg (6 Dan) – National Level 2 Instructor/Assessor

• Level 1 – Minimum Godan. Leads seminars at National level.
• Level 2 – Minimum Rokudan. Leads seminars at National level.

International Instructors

To be confirmed

• Certification: Those certified by Japan with the necessary qualifications are recognized as International Instructors.
• Role: They also serve as National Assessors.

Kenshusei

• Jamie C – Shidokan.