ASDAN champion Jonas wins medal for judo at World Down Syndrome Games

Celebrating learner success is at the heart of what we do at ASDAN. We’re proud to recognise learners who build confidence, develop essential life skills and take meaningful steps towards their futures. Through our ASDAN champions initiative, we showcase inspiring stories that demonstrate the lasting impact of practical, skills-based learning.  

Meet Jonas, our August ASDAN champion 

Our latest ASDAN champion is Jonas from All Saints Catholic School, who has been completing ASDAN's Personal Development Programme (PDP). 

We are delighted to share that Jonas won a bronze medal in Sweden at the World Down Syndrome Championships this month.

Jonas has embraced a wide range of challenges through ASDAN's Personal Development Programmes and has already achieved his Bronze Award and is now working towards Gold. His favourite activities have included baking a cake by following a recipe and organising a party for staff and fellow learners, developing his communication, organisation and independence skills along the way. 

As part of the Sport and leisure module, Jonas chose to take part in judo, embracing the opportunity to try a new sport and challenge himself. What began as an activity for his ASDAN qualification has since become a passion that has transformed his confidence, developed his leadership skills and opened up exciting opportunities for the future. 

From the dojo to the world stage 

Since taking up judo, Jonas has made remarkable progress. Not only has he developed his sporting ability, but he has also gone on to represent Great Britain, travelling internationally to compete. 

This month, Jonas represented GBR at the World Down Syndrome Championships in Sweden, an incredible achievement that reflects his dedication, hard work and commitment to the sport. 

Alongside his own success, Jonas has used his experience to support others. Working alongside his coaches, he helps students from an alternative provision who attend after-school adaptive judo sessions. Jonas now leads elements of the sessions and works one-to-one with fellow judoka, helping them develop new skills and build confidence. 

Through these experiences, he has grown into a positive role model, demonstrating leadership, teamwork and a willingness to support others. 

Learning skills for life 

ASDAN has helped Jonas develop skills that extend far beyond the sports hall. Through PDP and his involvement in judo, he has built confidence in communicating with others, strengthened his speech and language skills and gained valuable leadership experience. 

His ASDAN journey has also encouraged him to explore a range of new experiences. Jonas has hosted charity events, practised yoga, developed gardening skills and worked in the kitchen, where he enjoys baking cakes for family and friends. 

The programme's focus on trying new activities and developing practical skills has helped prepare Jonas for future opportunities, giving him the confidence to take on new challenges and support others along the way. 

During a recent visit from the ASDAN team, Jonas proudly received his ASDAN champion certificate. The recognition meant a great deal to him and highlighted just how much he has achieved through his determination, hard work and willingness to embrace new opportunities. 

Looking ahead 

Looking to the future, Jonas hopes to learn how to officiate judo competitions and support the running of local events. He has set himself an inspiring goal: to become the first judoka with Down syndrome to qualify as a table official in British judo history. 

Jonas’s journey demonstrates how ASDAN encourages learners to try new experiences, discover their strengths and develop the confidence and skills needed for the future. From taking on a new sport as part of ASDAN's Personal Development Programme to competing on the world stage, Jonas is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when learners are given opportunities to challenge themselves and pursue their ambitions. 

Everyone at ASDAN would like to congratulate Jonas on his achievements so far and his medal at the World Down Syndrome Championships. We look forward to hearing about his bright future both on and off the mat. 

Nominate your ASDAN champion 

Do you know a learner who deserves to be recognised? 

We invite centres to nominate a learner who has demonstrated commitment, progress and achievement through their ASDAN course. Help us celebrate their success and share their story with the wider ASDAN community. 

Submit your ASDAN champion nomination and join us in recognising the remarkable achievements of learners across our network.