How does one progress in Karate?

·                 Normally after the six week introductory period a beginner is ready to take the grading test for their first karate grade, 9th kyu, signified by a white belt with a yellow stripe.  The timing of the grading test is at the discretion of the club instructors.

·                 Tests for grades above 9th kyu are held on a regular timetable, and each student is entered at the discretion of the club instructors.

·                 Before taking any formal grading test each student must pass a number of quick tests, for which they are awarded grading badges.  For grades above 9th kyu students are also expected to collect a number of grading points which are awarded for training each week and for attending special training courses, competitions and other events. 
All this is described in our club guidelines document.

·                 No student will be considered for any grading unless they have an in-date martial arts licence or have filed an application and are waiting for the licence to arrive.  The reason for this is covered in full in our student licensing statement, but one practical reason that each student must be licensed is the insurance cover that the licence provides.

·                 Finally every student should remember to follow our dojo kun or maxims.