The next gradings are taking place March 29th 2026.

Grading information for all students 2026.

 Most students can achieve their next full or half coloured belt on the day if they diligently study in class.

A double grade is also achievable if the full syllabus is completed on the grading day.

Upon request, higher stages or grades are available but are subject to a strict regime and require approval from Chief Sensei Christine 6th Dan Club Owner

A quicker attainment of a higher grade can be facilitated by a bit more hard work, but only if both the student and Chief Sensei deem them ready.

Everyone grading should of received a time slot to grade. Please do not be late as have a very tight schedule to fit everyone in. If you are late will will have to turn the student away.

• THE SHOTOKAN OFFICIAL MINIMUM OF LESSONS TO GRADE BETWEEN EACH GRADING normally 20/21

YOU WILL NEED TO KNOW YOUR SYLLABUS WHICH IS TAUGHT AT EACH CLASS

• Most students can achieve their next full or half coloured belt on the day if they diligently study in class. A double grade is also achievable if the full syllabus is completed on the grading day. Upon request, higher stages or grades are available but are subject to a strict regime and require approval from the chief sensei. A quicker attainment of a higher grade can be facilitated by a bit more hard work, but only if both the student and chief sensei deem them ready.
• ANY FEES TO BE IN BY THE WEEK BEFORE THE GRADING.
• Every student who passes their grade will receive a free belt and certificate.
• On the grading day, we will use the scoring system at three tables for Khion, Kata, and Kumite. The chief instructor’s decision is final and unchangeable on the grading day. You can attempt again at the next grading.
• At the grading’s end, a presentation ceremony will occur. Each passing student will receive a new color belt and certificate.

The next Dan gradings TBA

All Dan grading exams must be made in writing to Shihan Christine.and must have a minimum of 9 months regular training (60 lessons minimum) and knowledge of Gichin Funakoshi, the Precepts Dojo Etiquette and Dojo Kun and be assessed by Sensei Christine.

ALL 1ST KYU’S AND 1ST DANS WILL TAKE A WRITTEN TEST ON THE PRECEPTS, DOJO KUN AND GICHIN FUNAKOSHI. (IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ANY OF THIS INFORMATION PLEASE LET SHIHAN CHRIS KNOW ASAP) THEN THIS WILL LEAD INTO THE GRADING (THIS WILL BE RECORDED) THE RESULTS FOR 1ST DAN STUDENTS WILL NOT BE GIVEN ON THE DAY                    

 https://sjkkarate.co.uk/dojo-kun-etiquette/

Keep Informed

The following shows the Shotokan official minimum period of time it takes to reach the various different Dan levels including the late Shihan David’s level of 7th Dan:

     3 years to reach Black Belt 1st Dan (After 3 years)

     2 more years to reach 2nd Dan       (After 5 years)

     3 more years to reach 3rd Dan        (After 8 years)

     4 more years to reach 4th Dan        (After 12 years)

     5 more years to reach 5th Dan        (After 17 years)

     6 more years to reach 6th Dan        (After 23 years)

     7 more years to reach 7th Dan        (After 30 years)

At least 30 years of training and teaching are required to reach the grade of 7th  Dan. 

 

We also run teaching and Brown/Black Belt Courses

“Why We Run Teaching Courses & Brown/Black Belt Courses”
At BPSJK, our goal is to help every student progress safely, confidently, and to the highest standard. As students move into the advanced grades (brown belt and above), their training becomes more technical and more demanding. To support this, we run specialist courses throughout the year.

Why these courses are important
Access to higher‑grade instructors
Students work directly with our most experienced black belts and senior instructors.
This ensures:

Correct technique

Consistent standards

Expert guidance

Faster, more confident progress

Advanced grades require deeper understanding
Brown and black belt levels involve complex kata, kumite, and technical detail that cannot always be covered fully in regular classes.

Small‑group learning
These courses allow students to receive focused coaching and personalised feedback.

Consistency and fairness
Every student receives the same preparation, ensuring grading standards remain high and fair.

Life skills beyond karate
Teaching courses help older students build confidence, leadership, communication skills, and responsibility.

Why there is a separate fee
These sessions involve:

Additional instructor time

Smaller groups

Specialist training content

Longer sessions than a normal class

We keep the cost as low as possible while maintaining the high standards our students deserve.

Part of the Black Belt Pathway
From 3rd kyu onwards, students follow our Black Belt Pathway, which includes:

Brown/black belt technical courses

Teaching & leadership development

Advanced kata and kumite workshops

Preparation for grading success

These courses ensure every student reaches black belt with confidence, skill, and pride.