SHOTOKAN KARATE GRADINGS

When starting, Karate students have the facility to grade up to four times a year at Budokwai, to achieve the various coloured belts leading to the black belt level. Eligibility to grade is based upon a student training twice a week, permission to grade being given by the instructor, and three months having lapsed between gradings.

The coloured belt system is as follows;

After 1st Kyu has been achieved students then progress towards obtaining their black belt- known as Dan Grade- then there are ten levels of dan grade with the first being known as Shodan. Dan gradings are held at National venues, and not more than five times a year.
Kyu gradings are held at the Budokwai in March, June/July, September and December of each year. Gradings for 2008 will be held on the following dates at 6pm;

Gradings start promptly at 6pm and it is therefore advised for students to book in at least 30 minutes before hands. Students must have a valid JKA licence and grading fee of £15 with them. Gradings often vary in length depending on how many people are grading that day so allow at least two hours.

JKAE ENGLAND MEMBERSHIP

All students training at the Budokwai must hold a JKA England licence, which is re-newable on an annual basis. The licence provides the holder with member to member and public liability insurance cover. The licence is also required to enable students to grade and/or attend JKA England events throughout the year.

The Budokwai 4 Gilston Road London SW10 9SL Tel: 020 7370 1000 Fax: 020 7370 2088