A schoolboy spent three weeks learning karate in Japan as part of a children’s television documentary.

Jedd Mann, 14, and dad Paul, 45, from Rayleigh, took part in making the programme, “Hai! Karate – Journey to Japan”, which will be shown on the CBBC channel at 5.15pm on Thursday, then every Thursday for ten weeks.

The Essex schoolboy pupil had to live in a traditional Japanese hut and learn karate – and his quest was to get his first belt during the stay.

Jedd entered the competition through the school. His mum, Clare, 41, said he thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

She told the Echo News: “The hardest thing for us to cope with was him being so far away. He absolutely loved it.”

Clare added this was a special achievement, as Jedd had been born 11 weeks early.

She said: “He has quite a lot of problems, but it is something he just gets on with, and the school helps and supports him a lot.

“He is very active, and wants to go out and do things.

“It was a great opportunity.”

Viewers will have to watch the show to find out if Jedd got his belt.