Meet Your Teacher,
Sifu
Quintin Derham
Quintin Derham has spent more than 40 years training in traditional Chinese martial arts and nearly four decades teaching people of all ages and abilities.
He began training as a child, earned his first black belt at 13, and founded the School of Martial Arts in Titirangi in 1993. Since then, his teaching has continued to evolve through the study and practice of Kempo, Taijiquan, Qigong, Ba Gua Zhang, Xingyi and traditional Chinese weaponry.
At the heart of Quintin’s teaching is a simple idea: martial arts should help us become stronger, calmer, more aware and more connected — not only in training, but in everyday life.
His approach brings together traditional principles with practical, accessible teaching. Students learn how to develop balance, posture, coordination, breath, whole-body movement and confidence while gradually deepening their understanding of the art.
Whether you are stepping onto the path for the first time or have trained for many years, Quintin’s teaching meets you where you are and gives you room to grow.
Train with purpose. Move with clarity. Live with balance.
To Begin, Select Your Age Group:
Hear from our students.
Elaine Webb
GBHS Deputy Principal
We were very impressed with Quintin’s self-defence sessions for our Year 9 and 10 students. His knowledge, practical expertise, and engaging delivery made the content highly relevant to both everyday situations and potential dangers. Quintin relates easily to young people, handling serious topics with calm confidence and clear communication. His sessions were accessible, professional, and impactful. We highly recommend Quintin to any school seeking age-appropriate self-defence training and look forward to working with him again.
Dr. Jo Fadyl
Student
Sifu Quintin's deep knowledge of martial arts comes through in his teaching style, the school is inclusive and flexible, and the community offers guidance and support. All this inspires me, I'm always learning so much! I started Tai Chi first, and last year I began learning Kempo as well. The study of internal and external forces across both arts works well together. It is great for my fitness and confidence and it is amazing how many applications there are to life too. Its sport and philosophy!
Kirstin Pickles
Parent
Ralf, now 7, has been doing Kempo with Quintin since he was 4, and he remains dedicated to the practice. Quintin has an amazing way with kids - engaging, friendly and firm - and we have enjoyed seeing Ralf's confidence grow and his abilities progress in Quintin's care. It has been a great outlet for Ralf's boundless energy, and even more importantly Kempo is teaching him all about focus, respect and self-control - valuable life skills that go beyond martial arts. We can't recommend Quintin's school enough.
