Meet The Wing Chun Collective - Our Founding Instructors

A Partnership Forged Through Decades of Dedication

The Wing Chun Collective was born from the shared vision of three exceptional martial artists, each bringing their own unique journey and expertise to create something truly special. Together, our founding instructors represent over 120 years of combined Wing Chun experience, creating a teaching environment where traditional authenticity meets modern understanding.

Three Paths, One Commitment

Sifu Steve Woodward – Our passionate traditionalist who discovered Wing Chun through necessity and transformed his vulnerability into mastery. Steve’s journey from bullying victim to respected instructor embodies the transformative power of dedicated Wing Chun practice.

Sifu David Akroyd-Jones – with a background in sport and exercise science, David’s understanding of biomechanics, physiology and psychology help new students appreciate structure, the minimal use of muscular force, identifying excessive force, the concept of mass, connectivity and mindfulness required in Wing Chun.

“The answers are all found within the Wing Chun system; it’s my job to help students identify and question their findings and maximise their potential”

Specialising in human performance and rehabilitation, David brings unique insights into how Wing Chun can improve health both physically and mentally for all.

Sifu Simon Moore – A dedicated practitioner who proves that Wing Chun’s life-changing benefits extend far beyond the training hall. Now serving the Welsh community, Simon demonstrates how authentic Wing Chun can flourish across the UK.

Excellence Through Experience

Each of our founding instructors has achieved mastery through different paths but shares common foundations:

Authentic Lineage: All three trained extensively under Sifu Shaun Rawcliffe and had the rare privilege of learning directly from Grandmaster Ip Chun, son of the legendary Ip Man and Bruce Lee’s kung fu brother.

Teaching Excellence: Decades of instruction have refined their ability to connect with students of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities, making complex concepts accessible and practical.

Personal Growth: Each instructor’s individual journey – from overcoming personal challenges to professional achievements – enriches their teaching with real-world wisdom and empathy.

Continuous Development: Their commitment to learning never stops, ensuring students benefit from evolving techniques and teaching methods.

Professional Standards You Can Trust

Safety and professionalism are paramount in everything we do. All our founding instructors maintain:

Current First Aid certification – ensuring your safety during training
Full compliance with British Martial Arts and Boxing Association (BMABA) teaching requirements
Comprehensive insurance coverage for all training activities
Ongoing professional development to maintain the highest teaching standards

The Power of Collective Wisdom

What makes The Wing Chun Collective unique is how our founders’ different strengths complement each other. Whether you’re drawn to traditional martial arts philosophy, fascinated by the science of movement, or seeking practical self-defence skills, you’ll find an instructor who understands your perspective and can guide your development.

Their combined expertise creates a learning environment where every student can find their path to Wing Chun mastery, supported by instructors who truly understand both the art and the journey of personal transformation it offers.

Ready to learn from individuals who have dedicated their lives to Wing Chun? Discover which of our locations and instructors is right for your journey.