.png)
Gradings
General information concerning gradings and a packing list for parents.​
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.
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).
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.
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
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) A copy of the TAGB theory for practice - you can log into your student portal and access a printable PDF
​
5) Your colour belt licence book (red book) - if you are unsure, ask your instructor
​
6) Bring some water and some snacks! Especially if you are travelling with others and expect to be waiting for them to grade.
​
7) If you have not paid the grading fee, please bring this along and pass it onto your instructor. You will not be able to grade without this.
​
8) A change of clothes if you do not want to travel in your dobok
​
9) Make sure you have your transport sorted beforehand. Talk to your instructor if you are having issues.
​
10) Be early! Get there at least 20 minutes early so you can get warmed-up and practice.