Reviews

This MMA club is something really special. Running it within a high school for learners who face behavioral challenges could easily be difficult—but instead, it’s become a place where those challenges are met with structure, respect, and genuine care.

Kieran deserves huge credit. He strikes that rare balance between discipline and encouragement, setting clear expectations while still building strong, positive relationships with the students. You can see the impact not just in their skills, but in their confidence, focus, and attitude. Many of the young people who walk in unsure or guarded leave sessions more composed, motivated, and proud of themselves.

The environment feels safe and purposeful. There’s a strong emphasis on respect—both for others and for oneself—which carries over into how the students behave outside the club as well. It’s not just about learning techniques; it’s about learning control, resilience, and accountability.

An outstanding program that’s clearly making a real difference.

Behaviour - The benefit of the club is that we are able to monitor behaviour for the week leading up to the Thursday session. There have been instances where behaviour has improved in terms of the number of positive behaviour points achieved and a reduction in the negative behaviour points accumulated. Furthermore, behaviour in PE lessons has improved with a greater level of participation in them lessons as learners are aware that they have to complete these lessons to be involved in the MMA sessions and for some learners completing PE lessons has been a challenge before the introduction of the MMA sessions.

Head of behaviour - CQHS

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Kieran from The Way Forward has been outstanding with our group of boys. His MMA sessions have gone far beyond teaching technique — he’s helped them build confidence, discipline, and respect for one another.

The boys have learned real MMA skills, but more importantly, they’ve learned how to communicate, support each other, and channel their energy in a positive way. Kieran’s patience, leadership, and ability to connect with young people have made a huge impact. We couldn’t recommend him highly enough.

Shan Jones
Swyddog Ysgolion Bro / Community Focused Schools Officer
Ysgolion Bro | Community Focused Schools

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The MMA sessions delivered through The Way Forward Academy provided an excellent opportunity for students to engage in physical activity in a structured, positive and highly motivating way. The lesson was exceptionally well planned and delivered, with Kieran providing a clear, purposeful lesson plan that was both age-appropriate and engaging for all learners.

Students responded very positively to the MMA activities, demonstrating high levels of focus, enthusiasm and respect throughout the session. The structure of the lesson supported not only physical development, but also key transferable skills such as self-discipline, confidence, teamwork and emotional regulation. Clear expectations were set from the outset, and behaviour was managed calmly and consistently, creating a safe and inclusive learning environment.

Instruction was clear and encouraging, with activities scaffolded well to ensure all students could participate and experience success.

Overall, this was a highly effective session that demonstrated the positive impact of well-planned external provision. The professionalism of The Way Forward and the quality of Kieran’s lesson planning significantly enhanced the learning experience for students, and the session was a valuable addition to the wider curriculum.

Sali Newsam, Community Focused Schools Flintshire

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Kieran has worked with some of the most vulnerable pupils in Flintshire for the last two years. In the time I have been working with him I have seen the key qualities he has to connect positively with the pupils, passion, determination, patience, empathy and resilience.

Kieran works to understand the young people and through MMA, teaches them about values and improves their ability to be able to connect with others.

Gareth Hywel, Headmaster, Plas Derwen

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MMA has truly changed my life. Before I started training, I used to spend most of my time lazing around the house, not doing much exercise, and struggling in school. I also got into a lot of trouble—fighting in the streets and making bad decisions that could have ended badly.

Since starting MMA, I’ve learned discipline, self-control, and how to channel my anger in a positive way. It gave me a purpose, a safer environment to train, and a community that pushed me to grow. I’m no longer on a destructive path—MMA helped me turn things around, both physically and mentally.

Archie Laughran

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Young people are our future and are a key focus of my plan to support communities across North Wales. As such, I am pleased that through my Innovate to Grow fund, we have been able to help this project at Plas Derwen reach some of the most vulnerable young people across Flintshire.

Engaging positively with these young people at an early stage will hopefully prevent further issues later on and encourage them to turn away from the temptation of crime and anti-social behaviour. At the same time, they are learning new skills and keeping fit in a positive and affirming way and are gaining the self-discipline and respect for the opponent that is core to martial arts.

PCC Andy Dunbobbin

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Just wanted to say a big thanks to Kieran for everything he’s done for me. Before I started training with him, I was getting into trouble a lot and things weren’t going great at school. I didn’t really have anything I cared about or looked forward to.

Since I’ve been going to Kieran’s sessions, everything’s changed. I actually enjoy training now and I always look forward to going to the gym. It’s not just about MMA – Kieran always takes time to talk to me and check in, and that’s made a massive difference.

He’s helped me get my head straight and stay focused, and I feel like I’m in a much better place now. I wouldn’t be where I am without him. Thanks for everything, Kieran

Riley

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The Way Forward, led by Kieran, is an exceptional service which incorporates physical activity, well being and academic learning.

I am so proud to see Kieran’s progress, having worked with him for over a year. I have seen Kieran thrive in challenging situations and show up for the young people every single session with engaging and relevant content to explore.

Shirley-Ann, Southern Pastoral Lead, Plas Derwen PRU

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I can’t thank Kieran enough for the incredible impact he’s had on my son Riley’s life. Riley was going through a tough time, getting into trouble at school and generally heading down the wrong path. It was a worrying time for us as a family.

Kieran stepped in not just as a coach, but as a real mentor and positive influence. He took the time to train with Riley, talk with him, and most importantly – listen. Through MMA and the supportive environment Kieran has created at the gym, Riley has completely turned his life around.

Now, Riley looks forward to every session. The gym has given him structure, confidence, and a real sense of purpose. He truly looks up to Kieran, and it’s clear the respect and care go both ways.

I will be forever grateful for the role Kieran has played in Riley’s journey. His dedication, patience, and genuine support have made a lasting difference – not just in Riley’s training, but in his life.

Jamie (Riley's Mum)

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I have had the pleasure of working with Kieran for several months now, and I can confidently say he is one of the most knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and patient trainers I have ever encountered in the world of martial arts and personal fitness.

His deep understanding of mixed martial arts is truly impressive. He explains techniques with clarity and precision, ensuring that I not only learn the moves but also understand the underlying principles behind them. His enthusiasm for MMA is contagious, constantly motivating me to push my boundaries and improve my skills. No matter my skill level, he always encourages me to strive for progress and excellence.

What sets Kieran apart is his remarkable patience. He takes the time to work with me at my own pace, addressing my weaknesses and celebrating my improvements. His supportive attitude creates a positive and empowering environment that makes training enjoyable and inspiring.

Beyond his technical expertise and the time he has spent training me, Kieran has an extraordinary talent for working with children, especially those with challenging behaviors. He approaches each young person with genuine care, patience, and understanding, helping them to channel their energy in productive ways through MMA and personal training. His ability to connect with and inspire these children is truly admirable, and he consistently encourages them to believe in their potential to better themselves.

Kieran is not just a trainer but a mentor who believes in the transformative power of martial arts. He supports and inspires those facing personal struggles, guiding them towards self-improvement and confidence. His dedication to helping others, whether they are beginners, kids, or individuals overcoming difficulties, is evident in everything he does.

Tristan Jones Roberts

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I enjoy training with Kieran, sessions are 10/10.

I love the kickboxing, my favourite is the kicks 1/2’s and the sprawls and runs.

Best sessions ever!!

Ezekiel