About Us

Our Story

Leicester Wing Chun is a branch of the prestigious UK Wing Chun Kung Fu Association, overseen by Master James Sinclair. With over 45 years of martial arts experience and a full-time school based in Rayleigh, Essex, Master Sinclair brings an exceptional level of expertise to the Midlands.

The Leicester branch opened in September 2021 and has grown quickly — already expanding to a second class. This growth is down to one thing: the enthusiasm and hard work of the students themselves.

Our Vision

Unlike most schools, we take students on in groups. You will be guided and progress together, without new beginners constantly joining and forcing the class to repeat the same material. More experienced students are welcome to retrain their basics alongside beginners, as they tend to inspire and assist those just starting out. Beginners, however, are not permitted in advanced level classes — ensuring a focused environment for everyone.

Whether you are completely new to Wing Chun or have trained before, you will find a professional, structured and welcoming environment at Leicester Wing Chun.

OUR TRAINERS

Sifu James Sinclair

James Sinclair began his martial arts journey in 1972, studying karate under Sensei Alan White. In October 1985, he founded the United Kingdom Wing Chun Kung Fu Association. With over 45 years of experience, Master Sinclair now oversees branches including Leicester Wing Chun, bringing authentic, decades-honed teaching to the Midlands.

Inzar Haq

Inzar Haq leads the beginner classes at Leicester Wing Chun, guiding new students through the fundamentals with patience and clear instruction.

What our members say

“Sifu James has very high standards and teaches the Wing Chun system as do many other instructors but with this class you get over 40 years of his knowledge and hands on experience. He knows what works and what does not in many situations having analysed different styles and techniques.”

Paul Symonds
 “As a beginner I felt nothing but support from both Sifu and other students. As well as learning techniques, my fitness has increased over the years making me a better all round martial artist. Looking forward to many more years training under my Sifu and this school!”
Marty

“The teaching is progressive and inspirational and consists of a perfect blend of building knowledge and practical elements to support students in their development. The students of the class are friendly and like-minded and support each other in their training.”

Kalps Mas

FAQ – ABOUT US

All of our senior instructors or ‘Sifu’ grades are registered by the prestigious Ving Tsun Athletic Association in Hong Kong, which further validates the high standard and reputation that the UK Wing Chun Assoc. has around the world.
All of our instructors have been trained within the Association itself.

The instructors are all first aid trained

Master James Sinclair founded the Association back in 1985, and we are proud to say he remains our Chief Instructor to this day.

Founded in 1985 by Chief Instructor Master James Sinclair, the United Kingdom Wing Chun Kung Fu Association (UKWCKFA) is a highly respected network of affiliated clubs centered around our custom-built National Headquarters in Rayleigh, Essex.

We are dedicated to teaching genuine, close-quarter Wing Chun for real-world self-defense, prioritising technique, structure, and economy of motion over brute strength – making the art adaptable for students of all ages and abilities. To ensure a safe and supportive learning environment, we focus on genuine progression through structured beginner intakes, classes carefully separated by skill level, and a straightforward grading system designed to measure practical ability.

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