We have a unique approach to grading across all our classes at Foundation that is being refined and developed as we grow. Our grading process allows us to recognise and reward progression where necessary and support all of our students.
Kids Grading (4-8 yrs)
For our Kids class students, we monitor attendance, and when they reach 20 consecutive classes, we flag them for assessment.
The initial assessments are based on grading criteria and the professional judgment of our instructors. We observe and challenge students where necessary, testing their knowledge and application. If we feel a student is ready, we award them their grade at the next available opportunity.
Junior Grading (8-12 yrs)
Alongside the 20-class attendance requirement, Junior students from White Belt (Mu Mon) to Orange-Black Belt (9th Mon) also need to demonstrate progress in key skills to earn their next belt.
This is measured using a three-star system:
- ⭐️ = 知る (Shiru) – To Know: Initial understanding of the skill.
- ⭐️⭐️ = 分かる (Wakaru) – To Understand: Deeper comprehension of the skill.
- ⭐️⭐️⭐️ = できる (Dekiru) – To Do: Consistently applying the skill through effort.
How It Works:
- Instructors assess each student’s progress during regular classes.
- Stars will be awarded as students demonstrate their understanding and effort.
- To progress to their next belt, students must earn three stars for all required skills in addition to meeting the attendance requirement.
This approach ensures that students not only attend classes regularly but also grow in their understanding and ability, building a strong foundation for their martial arts journey.
Advanced Junior and Adult Grading
Advanced Junior and Adult students have a more demanding grading process as the expectation we place on them increases.
We have formal gradings at set dates throughout the year. This is a much more traditional process, with Advanced Junior and Adult students being tested individually through a closed assessment in front of instructors.
Kids Class Grading Structure
Kids Grade | Belt Colour |
---|---|
1st Kai / Ichi Kai | White / Red Stripe |
2nd Kai / Ni Kai | White / Yellow Stripe |
3rd Kai / San Kai | White / Orange Stripe |
4th Kai / Yon Kai | White / Green Stripe |
5th Kai / Go Kai | White / Blue Stripe |
6th Kai / Roku Kai | White / Purple Stripe |
7th Kai /Shichi Kai | White / Brown Stripe |
8th Kai /Hachi Kai | White / Black Stripe |
Juniors Class Grading Structure
Juniors Grade | Belt Colour |
---|---|
1st Mon / Ichi Mon | Red / White Stripe |
2nd Mon / Ni Mon | Red |
3rd Mon / San Mon | Red / Black Stripe |
4th Mon / Yon Mon | Yellow / White Stripe |
5th Mon / Go Mon | Yellow |
6th Mon / Roku Mon | Yellow / Black Stripe |
7th Mon / Shichi Mon | Orange / White Stripe |
8th Mon / Hachi Mon | Orange |
9th Mon / Ku Mon | Orange Black Stripe |
Advanced Juniors Class Grading Structure
Advanced Juniors Grade | Belt Colour |
---|---|
10th Mon / Jū Mon | Green / White Stripe |
11th Mon / Jūichi Mon | Green |
12th Mon / Jūni Mon | Green / Black Stripe |
13th Mon / Jūsan Mon | Blue / White Stripe |
14th Mon / Jūsuhi Mon | Blue |
15th Mon / Jūgo Mon | Blue / Black Stripe |
16th Mon / Jūroku Mon | Purple |
17th Mon / Jūshichi Mon | Purple / Black Stripe |
18th Mon / Jūhachi Mon | Brown |
19th Mon / Jūku Mon | Brown / Black Stripe |
20th Mon / Nijū Mon | Black / Red Stripe |
Adults Class Grading Structure
Adult Grade | Belt Colour |
---|---|
10th Kyu / Jukkyū | White |
9th Kyu / Kyūkyū | Red |
8th Kyu / Hachikyu | Yellow |
7th Kyu / Nanakyū | Orange |
6th Kyu / Rokkyū | Green |
5th Kyu / Gokyū | Blue |
4th Kyu / Yonkyū | Purple |
3rd Kyu / Sankyū | Brown |
2nd Kyu / Nikyū | Brown |
1st Kyu / Ikkyū | Brown |
1st Dan / Shodan | Black |