Grading is how we mark each member’s progress, and it happens once a term.
There is no pressure attached to it. Promotion is based on effort and understanding of the techniques, never on beating other people, and coaches will only put someone forward when they are ready.
Younger members work through the Sho and Mon schemes, and adults follow the Kyu grades. Each scheme has its own syllabus, and your coach will tell you which techniques to focus on before a grading day.
Successful gradings are charged at £5 per student. Every belt is a real milestone, and one worth being proud of.