.png)
Gradings
General information concerning gradings and a packing list for parents.
1. What is a Grading?
At Galashiels Tae Kwon Do, we set achievable, yet challenging, goals for all our students. Gradings are one such form of this.
If a student wishes to move onto the next belt - and has completed the minimum amount of training time - they may be eligible to be examined for their next belt. The club instructor must also agree that the student is ready to move onto their next grade.
Check the club calendar for the upcoming gradings!
TAGB official grading table.
2. How Does a Grading Work?
Once the student has obtained permission from the instructor to grade, they will be allowed to attend a formal grading.
Depending on the circumstances, an instructor may ask the student to attend a pre-grading first (a mock exam) too see whether they are truly ready to be promoted.
The formal grading will usually take place on a pre-agreed day, time and location with other TAGB Scotland clubs. Students will be divided into groups pertaining to their particular belt and be asked to perform a set syllabus. You can find out more about your individual syllabus on the student portal area.
This syllabus will be combined with some set theory questions which may be asked before or after the floorwork. Students will be graded in front of a panel, one of which will be the TAGB management council representative for the area (in our case, Grandmaster Paul Donnelly).
3. How Do I Know If I Have Passed My Grading?
Once the grading has been completed, students will be informed of their result in the coming days/weeks.
If a student has performed an exceptional grading, they may be informed on the day itself and presented with a grading award.
If the student has passed, they will receive their new belt and be allowed to learn the next stage of the syllabus.
4. Is There a Difference For Black Belt Gradings?
Absolutely, the standard needed to achieve a promotion - both to a black belt, and beyond - requires extra dedication and hard work.
Promotion to black belt requires the club member to be graded in front of the TAGB management council. This will take place with students from across the country.
Once the grading has been completed, much in the same way as a colour belt grading, the student will hear back whether they have passed the examination.
Once a student has achieved a black belt, the time between gradings can differ due to a number of factors. If in doubt, ask your instructor!
The TAGB management council
5. Grading Packing/Prep List
1) Full dobok (white suit), freshly ironed - unless pre-agreed with the instructor
2) Belt
3) Sparring gear (green belts and above)
4) Bring some water and some snacks! Especially if you are travelling with others and expect to be waiting for them to grade.
5) Make sure you have your transport sorted beforehand. Talk to your instructor if you are having issues.
6) Be early! Get there at least 20 minutes early so you can get warmed-up.