Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Sydenham, South East London
A welcoming BJJ school for adults and children of all levels.
About Mandala Jiu Jitsu School
Mandala Jiu Jitsu is a welcoming Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school based in Lower Sydenham, offering classes for adults and children of all levels. Conveniently located near Lower Sydenham station, we welcome members from Sydenham, Beckenham, Bromley and across South East London.
Resilience
We help you build resilience in training and in life through guidance, encouragement, and support.
Friendship
We foster a friendly atmosphere where students grow, push themselves, and support each other.
Respect
Respect is at the heart of our sport, creating a safe space where everyone can thrive.
Discipline
Self-discipline is key to showing up consistently, making the most of training, and achieving your goals.
Our Mission
At Mandala Jiu-Jitsu School, we believe training is about more than physical techniques. We offer a supportive environment where students build confidence, resilience, and friendships while challenging themselves and growing.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu develops both body and mind, teaching skills that extend beyond the mats. Guided by the philosophy of Grandmaster Carlos Gracie, our enjoyable, high-quality classes support personal growth and individual goals.
Our Classes
We offer a range of classes for children and adults, supporting growth at every stage.
- All Levels
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi
A grappling-based martial art focused on control, technique, and problem-solving, using joint locks, chokes, and positional strategy while training in the traditional gi.
- Beginner to Advanced
Private Classes
Take your Jiu Jitsu further with a private class. Private classes are tailored specifically to your needs and what you want to achieve in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
- Intermediate to Advanced
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu No-Gi
A fast-paced grappling class without the gi, focusing on submissions, movement, and control while training in rashguards and shorts under a slightly different rule set.
- Intermediate to Advanced
Striking Classes
A dynamic striking class combining elements of Thai boxing and kickboxing, using punches, kicks, knees, and elbows to develop effective technique and control.
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi
Cubs (4½ -6 years old)
The Cubs classes are designed for our youngest students, introducing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in a fun, safe and structured environment. Sessions focus on building coordination, confidence and a love of learning.
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu No-Gi
Wolves (7-10 years old)
The Wolves classes build on the fundamentals and introduces more technical development. Students begin to understand the “why” behind techniques while continuing to grow physically and mentally.
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu No-Gi
Direwolves (11-15 years old)
The Direwolves classes are designed for pre-teens and teens ready for more advanced technical training and greater challenges. Sessions focus on refining technique, strategy and mental toughness.
Meet Our Instructors
Learn from expert instructors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge, helping you succeed and reach your goals.
- All Levels
Vinicius De Castro
Founder & Head Instructor
- Adults
- Children
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Vinicius De Castro is a 4th degree Black Belt and founder of Mandala Jiu-Jitsu School. With decades of experience, championship wins, and expertise in Physical Education and Psychomotor Learning, he brings a unique, effective approach to teaching Jiu-Jitsu.
- Beginner to Advanced
Mike Brooks
Senior Instructor
- Adults
- Children
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Mike Brooks is a BJJ Black Belt and experienced instructor. An active competitor, he brings great attention to detail to every technique. Outside the mats, Mike is a passionate cyclist who has explored the world on two wheels—ask him about his adventures!
- Intermediate to Advanced
Joe Crawley
Senior Instructor
- Adults
- Children
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Joe Crawley is a BJJ Black Belt who teaches and assists in our classes. Always keen to study new techniques, he brings his passion and curiosity for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to every session. Off the mats, Joe enjoys BMX riding and cycling—he’s our club’s resident two-wheel enthusiast!
- Intermediate to Advanced
Pier Gaioni
Instructor
- Adults
- Children
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Pier Gaioni is a BJJ Blue Belt who teaches and assists in our classes, supporting students at all levels. A keen competitor, his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and competition experience inspires students of all ages. Off the mats, Pier looks after his numerous pets.
Our Club Uniform
All new members are required to have a uniform from the club.
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Gis
Mandala Club Gi Kids White
£75.00 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Gis
Mandala Club Gi Adults
£85.00 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
No-Gi
Mandala Kids Original Nogi Set
£50.00 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
No-Gi
Mandala Adults Original Nogi Set
£60.00 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Testimonials
Describe Mandala in as few words as possible:
"Great community."
Kyoko
"Family."
Vanessa
Kyoko and Vanessa - Mandala friends
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi
“My kids have formed friendships here that I believe will be for life.
I would say the hidden curriculum that Jiu Jitsu has for young children is so valuable and it helps them form skills they can apply in all aspects of their lives. It’s a wonderful environment for children to be in.”
Jack - Father of two young students
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu No-Gi



