A TEENAGER is making a name for himself in the world of martial arts. 

Ponteland High School pupil Nicholas Cameron won a trio of medals at the 10th Junior Senior Taekwondo Championships in Newcastle. 

The youngster demonstrated his versatility at the event, winning a gold medal for patterns, a set of fundamental movements in taekwondo. 

The Year 9 pupil earned a bronze medals for sparring, and also for his repertoire of special techniques.
Nicholas is a member of the Jon Churchward School of Taekwondo, based in Blaydon in Newcastle, which won the TAE Trophy for overall team performance. 

It’s a busy period for Nicholas. In December he will pre-test for his black belt, and will look to make further progress in the New Year.    

Nicholas, who is coached by Jon Churchward, has grown in confidence since starting out in taekwondo back in July 2011, at the age of just six. 

His first grading as a little dragon was in September 2011. Within months, he took part in his first competition and received an award for most improved junior. 

The talented youngster has a strong work ethic, and is now a first kup taekwondo student. 

Nicholas has already built up a wealth of experience. He has competed in championships in England, Scotland and Ireland, winning a total of 10 gold, eight silver, and 11 bronze medals so far.

Ponteland High School headteacher Kieran McGrane said: “Nicholas is a fantastic young man with a great attitude in and out of school. 

“It is so pleasing to hear how well he is doing in taekwondo and I am sure he will continue to achieve success in the years ahead. “

Nicholas is looking forward to competing at the British Open Championships in Scotland in November 2018.

Founded over a decade ago, the Jon Churchward school teaches taekwondo in accordance with the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF). 

Taekwondo is the Korean martial art of self defence. ‘Tae’ refers to kicking with the feet, while ‘Kwon’ means to punch with the hand or fist.

However, it is about much more than kicking and punching. The non-violent discipline is effective for physical training and character building.