l-r are Karate coach John Richards, James Garratt and headteacher David Mountney
An Aldridge karate gold champion is in a class of his own after impressing staff at the secondary school he’s set to move up to.
James Garratt, who starts Aldridge School in September, has been awarded a £500 grant from the Tynings Lane school.
The money will help fund his trip in October this year to take part in the Karate World Championships held in Italy.
James, aged 11, is already a Black Belt and has won national bronze, silver and gold medals and is part of the Traditional England Karate team.
The current Cooper and Jordan School pupil trains with the Zen-Shin Karate Academy based in Sutton Coldfield and run by coach John Richards.
James’ mum, Jane Garratt, said when they found out James had got into Aldridge School she contacted staff to let them know he was off to Italy in October for the championships.
Head teacher David Mountney said: “We are looking forward to James starting here in September. Even though he’s not with us yet it made sense to support him now to make sure he gets the sponsorship he needs to fund his place at the world championships.”