26 Seabourne Rd, Pokesdown, Bournemouth BH5 2HT, UK
De Souza Dojo Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy is a Bournemouth BJJ academy teaching adult gi and no-gi classes, kids Jiu-Jitsu for ages 4-10, teens Jiu-Jitsu for ages 11+, ladies gi classes and private sessions. The academy follows a structured curriculum, and instructors have enhanced CRB checks, public liability insurance and first aid training.
Professional instructor for over 20 years; Alex graduated black belt on the 22 of September 2006, received his grading from Vitor Shaolin Ribeiro; Alex became a fifth degree black belt in September 2025.
Talented purple belt instructor who runs the ladies-only Jiu-Jitsu classes.
I first trained at De Souza Dojo back in 2015, and coming back in 2025 has reminded me exactly why this place is so special. The level of coaching, the atmosphere on the mats, and the sense of community have all gone from great to genuinely outstanding. The technical instruction is clear, patient, and incredibly effective — you feel yourself improving every session. The team is welcoming, supportive, and full of people who train hard but look after each other. Whether you’re returning after years away or stepping onto the mats for the first time, this is the kind of gym that makes you excited to train again. Couldn’t recommend it more highly. A fantastic place to learn BJJ and push yourself in all the right ways.
2 of my 3 children are in Alex’s classes and I can’t wait for the 3rd to join. Alex does an incredible job with the children and teaching them really great techniques whilst all the children are having loads of fun. They all feel safe with Alex. I am not from a bjj background but it’s honestly one of my favourite parts of the week is watching how much the children are growing in these classes. Best decision to get the kids into it.
My 4 and 6 year-old sons absolutely love training at De Souza Dojo. They often say that it doesn’t even feel like training it feels like playing. Everything is presented as a game, yet they are constantly learning, and after just one month we could already see clear improvement. They see their coach, Alex, almost like a friend, but at the same time every child shows him respect, pays attention, and listens to him. There is real discipline during the classes, but also a lot of laughter, joy, and positive energy. The atmosphere is friendly, warm, and truly family-like something very special and hard to put into words. We have never experienced this kind of environment in any other gym. I highly recommend De Souza Dojo to every parent. It is absolutely worth bringing your child here. Katie and Alex have built something truly special you can see that their hearts are in it, and that they genuinely love and care about the kids.
Great coaching! Excellent place for you child .Great workout , discipline and confidence building place for you kid. Very friendly atmosphere. Recommended 5+
If you looking for a safe and progressive place for you child you just found one! Great atmosphere and discipline . Definitely recommend.
This Dojo has helped my son so much , he is so much more confident and physically stronger he's grown so much from the year he's been with them would highly recommend Ju Jitsu for children
Posted 9 months ago
My 12 year old son loves Jiu jitsu at Alex's Do jo.Alex is a great teacher and it's an amazing environment for the kids to grow in confidence and ability.
Posted 1 year ago
I work and stay in London for 6 months of the year (2 weeks on/off) I train and compete in BJJ & MMA at the Roger Gracie Academy whilst in London, my family live in Poole where I spend the other half of my time. I wanted to continue training whilst at home in Poole and was told to go to De Souza Academy and train under Alex De Souza by my BJJ Professors at the Roger Gracie Academy London whom highly recommended Alex and know him well. I have been attending Alex's lessons at the De Souza DoJo (which has pristine mats and floor space), his tuition and method of teaching are amazing, he breaks down the techniques clearly and step by step with clarity. I also enrolled my daughter of 4 years old to Alex's childrens reception BJJ course, my daughter now loves BJJ, Alex has a great way with the children, it amazes me how he keeps the children so engaged in the lesson at such a young age, the kids all seem to love him there. I would highly recommend De Souza's DoJo if you are interested in learning, progressing or competing in BJJ or want a reputed club for your children to attend.
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