Inspiration in Education nominee – Tara Burndred

Inspiration in Education nominee – Tara Burndred

Two-time WCJJO Ju Jitsu World Champion Tara Burndred is inspiring the next generation into sport and giving them a pathway to compete in the Olympics.

The 51-year-old, from Oakamoor, runs the Tatsu Dojo in Draycott in the Moors, which offers a range of martial arts classes. She also still competes at Senior level herself.

Her expertise is in Ju Jitsu but in recent years has seen a growth in Judo for which Tatsu Dojo is the only team in the area that has an Olympic pathway.

As well as working  at Tatsu Dojo, she and her team visit schools to educate them on the benefits of exercise and fitness.

“Before covid, we went to schools in the local area. Once we came out of the pandemic, we thought we’d bring more of a focus on Tai Chi. Tai Chi can improve flexibility and strength, but it’s also a form of meditation, leaving people relaxed and calm. We now teach this to year six pupils who have already seen the benefits,” Tara said.

“I love what I do and the opportunities it gives to people make the effort all the more worthwhile. Just the example of giving our students a clear pathway to the Olympics is a driver in itself.

“It’s an amazing opportunity to make a difference to people’s lives. I love to be able to inspire the next generation.”

Tara’s husband, Anthony Burndred, who nominated his wife in the Inspiration in Education category of the Your Heroes Awards, said: “Tara deserves recognition of all the good she puts into the community through education in personal safety and mental health awareness.”

Tara added: “I’ve seen the Your Heroes Awards first hand and it’s amazing when unsung heroes are recognised for all the good work that they do. To be put in the same category as them is amazing and I couldn’t be happier with the nomination.”