Archbishop Sancroft High School student Alex Taylor set to compete in the World Traditional Karate Association (WTKA) World Championships

A Harleston high school student has been selected to represent England at the world championships later this year.

15-year-old Archbishop Sancroft High School student Alex Taylor will have the weight his country on his shoulders when he competes in the World Traditional Karate Association (WTKA) World Championships in Italy in October.

Year 10 student Alex, who trains at the Norwich-based Black Belt Academy, said: “I am really excited about this opportunity to represent England.

“We are all working very hard to get ready for the competition.

“We are training every day now and I can’t wait to put all the practising into action at the World Championships and represent my country. Thanks to everyone supporting me.”

The competition is the biggest martial arts world championship event in the world, and will be attended by more than 6,000 competitors from across the globe.

Alex is off the back of success at the WTKA Open Championship – which took place in Chesterfield, Derbyshire last month – where he won two gold medals across two different divisions.

Maisie Emmerson, one of his karate instructors and England coaches from the Black Belt Academy said: “This is a fantastic achievement and an amazing opportunity that is a result of Alex’s dedication, hard work and commitment to karate.”

She added: “For some of our youngsters, this will be their first trip abroad.

“It will be an enormous life experience for them as well as, we hope, a very beneficial one.

“They will have the chance to create lasting friendships with other young people from across the world and learn many life skills along the way.”

Robert Connelly, Executive Headteacher from Archbishop Sancroft High School, said: “We are incredibly proud of Alex and his achievement in being selected for the England team.

“All the team will be eagerly following his journey at the World Championships and cheering him on.”

The event is entirely self-funded by participants and their families.

The Black Belt Academy is raising funds to pay for Alex’s travel and accommodation during the trip.

To donate, click here.