Instructors

Sandra Handforth

Owner and Lead Coach

My name is Sandra and I am the owner and head coach at Phoenix Academy.

I started training in my early teens in Ju Jitsu. I then took and interest in Kickboxing which is where I started this journey. I trained in multi-style martial arts and Freestyle Kickboxing. As time passed I began to volunteer for my then instructor and took extra-curricular sessions in local schools for several initiatives going on in Pendle and Lancashire, and even went into secondary schools for part of their physical education. I also at this time was volunteering for Lancashire Youth Offending Team working with young people.

In 2009, the time came when I wanted share my love of martial arts with my local community, and instead of volunteering, Phoenix Academy was born.

Since taking this journey I have learned so much, and worked with so much of the community teaching my own classes, going into schools, working with Home Start Pendle providing workshops, providing demos at local events, and more. I love to be involved in our local community and welcome all to our sessions.

I have taken lots of students to local, reginal, and european tournaments gaining many medals along the way, and also world championships where we have travelled abroad to compete.

Not long after Phoenix was born, I have had a thirst for more knowledge in this industry. In order to get the best out of my customers, I must get the best out of myself. I have qualified as a WTKA referee, a rape prevention instructor, gained certificates in SDF (Self Defence Federation), and other martial arts related seminars and training. I have also gained Level 2 Exercise, Health, and Fitness, Level 3 Personal Trainer, Level 3 and Level 4 Sports Massage Therapy, Sports and Exercise Science degree, and many fitness certifications and hold licences for Boxercise, Zumba, Clubbercise, Soulsa and still learn more for continued professional development (CPD).