About the academy
A modern BJJ academy built on community, progress and purpose.
Co-founded and led by Black Belts Jacques Ward and Jay Swanston — all levels welcome, from absolute beginners to experienced competitors.
Whether you’re stepping on the mat for the first time or preparing for competition, every session is coached, structured and purposeful.
What we offer
Our programmes
Adults Programme
Jiu jitsu is one of the most effective, complete grappling arts in the world and we teach it properly. Structured around technical fundamentals, positional drilling and live rolling, our adult classes run 6 days a week across all levels. Whether you’re brand new or chasing your next belt, every session moves you forward.
Learn more →Kids & Teens Programme
Jiu Jitsu can be one of the greatest gifts you give your child. Our kids and teens programme builds confidence, focus and self-discipline through structured classes in a safe, fun environment. They’ll carry those tools for life. Tots Warriors for ages 3–6, Kids BJJ for 6+, and a dedicated teens class for 10+
Learn more →NoGi Programme
NoGi strips away the grips and forces you to grapple with precision. Classes focus on wrestling takedowns, body mechanics and fast transitions — the perfect complement to gi training, or a complete discipline in its own right. Open to all levels.
Learn more →The coaches
World-class Jiu Jitsu coaching in Milton Keynes.
COV academy classes are led by our team of dedicated instructors, Black Belts Jacques Ward and Jay Swanston, and coaches Charlie Papp and Andy Leatherland. Each programme is thoughtfully structured around technical fundamentals, live drilling and purposeful rolling, creating the best possible learning environment for every student, from first class to competition.
Meet the full team →
Jacques Ward
Jacques brings competition experience and a structured teaching methodology that develops students at every level.
Jay Swanston
Jay’s approach focuses on technical precision and building the kind of relaxed, effective game that works at every level.
What people say
A fantastic BJJ club with a great atmosphere and instructors who are the real deal. Getting down to Circle of Vigour is always a highlight of my week. The timetable is varied (meaning I can get to class regularly), parking is super easy and the mats are always spotless. Highly recommend, thanks CoV BJJ!
Great beginners course for anyone looking for a friendly environment to learn BJJ with an easy transition into the mixed level classes. I’m now hooked- I absolutely think it’s a great sport for women to learn! The trainers Jay, Jacques & co are great, patient teachers and always make it fun, they help you learn at your own pace and comfort level. The bonus of open mats on the weekend are a great bonus to refine what you learnt in class! 10/10
Been doing various Martial Arts on and off for over a decade and can honestly say this is the most fun in a club ive had. Have wanted to get into BJJ properly for some time and cant recommend this place enough. The coaches are incredible, super smart and constantly keep you thinking and learning all while making sure everyone is having a good time. If you’ve been thinking about trying BJJ or something like it, I would choose this place.
Nobody has more fun.
Your first class is free. No experience needed. Just show up.
