The

Instructors

World Class Tuition

Gracie Barra Yate has world class instructors certified through the Gracie Barra’s Instructor Certification Programme to deliver the highest standard of instruction to students of all ages and abilities.

Kirsty Carpenter

Professor

Gracie Barra Yate is lucky enough to have Professor Kirsty sharing her knowledge on the mats.

With 12 years of experience, she is an active ambassador for Jiu-Jitsu. Her teaching style is friendly and inclusive making her a huge hit with both children and adults. Let’s not forget the many British Championships she has won over the years, ADCC, NAGA and Empire Grappling!

Yes guys, this 55kg Lady will prove that size in Jiu-Jitsu cannot beat experience.. Professor Kirsty is a huge asset to our school!!

Melissa Rodrigues

Program Director & Kids Coach

Melissa has shown how BJJ can change your life! Joining Gracie Barra Yate in March 2023, within a few months Melissa was winning competitions and working within the school! Melissa is our ultra organised and efficient Program Director and social media guru! She is also here to help anyone with any queries or questions they have or simply be the smiling face at reception!

Melissa doubles up as Kids Coach and loves every minute! When someone really loves their job it makes it amazing for everyone around them! 😊

Jordan Rawlings

Coach

Jordan is a huge character at Gracie Barra Yate. Being one of the original members joining in 2018, Jordan has never looked back! They call him the ‘baby face assassin’ but you can’t be fooled by his light-hearted and friendly demeanour as his Jiu-jitsu is top tier. Jordan’s personality and teaching style are a fan favourite, the children absolutely adore his tone, style and personality which makes him the best combination for our GBK class!

We are Gracie Barra

At Gracie Barra Yate, you become an integral part of our extended family. Here, you'll be supported by a team dedicated to nurturing your journey of self-improvement, fostering the acquisition of knowledge and skills needed to conquer life's challenges, just like a black belt.

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WHY Gracie Barra

Our team of instructors have been extensively trained in the teaching philosophy and methods of Carlos Gracie Jr., the founder of Gracie Barra. With a combined teaching experience of over 10 years, you can trust that you and your family are in excellent hands here at GB Yate.

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The Blog

Explore our blog stay informed about upcoming events and activities at Gracie Barra Yate and insights into Jiu-Jitsu for beginners and veterans.

Macsen’s Journey: From White Belt to Aspiring World Champion at Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu

In the heart of Yate, the Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu school is cultivating a new generation of martial artists. Among its young talents is Macsen, an 8-and-a-half-year-old dynamo whose passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has propelled him into the spotlight. In this...

Empowering Our Local Youth: Taking a Stand Against Bullying with Gracie Barra Yate

In recent times, the pressing issue of bullying in schools across the United Kingdom has sparked a community-wide call for increased protection for our local children. Advocates are urging for stricter measures against peer violence as national statistics reveal the...

Empowering Women Through Jiu-Jitsu: A Conversation with Professor Kirsty Carpenter

Introduction In the realm of martial arts, Gracie Barra Yate stands out not just for its reputation as a hub of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu excellence but also for the diverse group of skilled practitioners that call it home. Among these, Professor Kirsty Utting emerges as a...