About SHIGAKUKAN Karate
Our Philosophy
At Shigakukan Karate Dojos, we believe true karate is about building character as much as technique. Every class is founded on respect, courtesy and continuous self-improvement. We challenge our students to become stronger—not only physically, but mentally and emotionally—while enjoying their training in a friendly and supportive environment.
Who are we
Who We Are
At Shigakukan Karate Dojos, we are a family-run karate school led by husband and wife instructors Mark Donaghy (7th Dan) and Libby Donaghy (5th Dan).
Together, we have over 80 years of combined martial arts experience, with decades spent teaching children, teenagers and adults throughout the North East of Scotland.
Our instruction follows the traditional teachings of Shotokan Karate, passed down through the late Soke Hirokazu Kanazawa and continued through SKIF Japan.
We believe karate is about far more than punching and kicking. It is about building confidence, discipline, respect and resilience in a friendly and welcoming environment where every student is encouraged to develop at their own pace.
Whether your goal is fitness, self-defence, personal development or achieving a black belt, you’ll receive expert tuition, genuine encouragement and become part of a supportive dojo community.
At Shigakukan, character comes before competition—and everyone is welcome.
Times and Venues
Aberdeen – Jesmond Centre
- Monday
- 5:45–6:45 pm – Children’s Class (5+)
- 6:45–8:00 pm – General Class
- Friday
- 6:30–7:30 pm – Children’s Class (5+)
- 7:30–8:45 pm – General Class
Peterhead – Community Centre
- Tuesday
- 6:30–7:30 pm – Children’s Class (5+)
- 7:30–8:45 pm – General Class
Peterhead – Zion Church Hall
- Thursday
- 6:30–7:30 pm – Children’s Class (5+)
- 7:30–8:45 pm – General Class
Professional Standards
All of our instructors are fully qualified, insured and committed to the highest standards of teaching. Every instructor and assistant holds an enhanced PVG Disclosure check and follows our safeguarding policies and codes of conduct, ensuring a safe, respectful and welcoming environment for every student.
Direct Links to Japan
We are proud to maintain strong links with the birthplace of Shotokan Karate. Through our close relationship with SKIF Japan, we regularly welcome senior Japanese instructors to North East Scotland, giving our students the opportunity to train with some of the world’s most respected karate masters while preserving the traditions and standards of authentic Japanese karate.