What is a grade? 
A grade is a measure of your ability to perform different techniques you have learned during your karate training. You are graded in three disciplines, these are Kihon, Kata and Kumite.

Kihon.
This part is a measure of your basic techniques, punching, striking, blocking and kicking. Using single or multiple actions or combinations of techniques.

Kata.
This part involves you performing a set sequence of movements, showing that you understand the different ways you can move, defend and attack. Using these set of movements as though you were fighting imaginary opponents coming from different angles. Breathing, focus and concentration is needed to perform Kata.

Kumite
This part shows you can attack and defend yourself against someone your equal, either size or grade.

Grading
Am I ready?
In the KUGB there is a minimum requirement for you, training twice a week, at least three months between grades (24 lessons) six months between 1st Kyu and 1st Dan.
Some students progress at different speeds so don't rush your grades, take grades when you are ready, take advice from your sensei. He has been through it and knows what you are going through, also he is assessed on his teaching ability, so he is almost as nervous as you. The higher the grade,you need to push yourself more. but  it becomes harder so again don't rush to take them. Good grades make you feel better.

On the Day.
Arrive early as you would do at your own dojo, observing dojo ettiquette. Sign in then start your own warm up,quietly go through what you have been taught.
Line up when called, then the lessons begins.The lesson usually last one hour, as the lesson progresses you will be taken through your paces from white belt to black belt depending who is grading. At our club the  black and brown belts continue after the hour for an extra half hours training, then a mock grade for the black and brown belts.

Grade Starts.
Your name is called, you should stand up bow and shout "Oss Sensei" then go to your place waiting in "Yoi" position. Your grade starts, show plenty of spirit when grading, Kiai loud when necessary, at the end you should bow then go back to your original place

Your Results.
Your name is called, you should stand again say "Oss Sensei" listen for your result, and also try to remember any points your examiner may tell you. This will help your instructor to work on those points for you.

Passes.
Full Pass: means you have reached the level for your grade and can wear the next coloured belt.
Temporary Pass: means you may have made some mistakes in your grade not good enough for a Full Pass, you can still wear the next coloured belt but must try even harder next time, to try on get rid of it.
For your black belt you must have a Full Pass 1st Kyu, even if you have to take your 1st Kyu twice.
Temporary Pass to Temporary Pass is a full Pass, usually higher grades reach this state.
You will also be awarded a certificate to show you have passed.

After the Grade.
Wow it is over, relax and enjoy the feeling of what you have achieved, because only you can pass your grade. Next belt looms and then it starts all over again. Don't give up.

Last note.
Any instructor will tell you that seeing their own students do well in a grade makes them feel better, and cannot wait for the next lesson to start. From the children to adults taking grades and passing makes a club progress better, with a good atmosphere between students and instructor.
All I want is for students to come and train hard, show good ettiquette in the dojo, good spirit which lifts me and makes for a good lesson. The harder you train the makes it easier for me to teach. You keep coming back which I am glad of because it shows you enjoy training and learning something different.
Each lesson should drive you on, for you to reach your full potential in karate.

Enjoy your karate, take care of yourself and your family.

Instructor: J. Brennan: 2nd Dan.
Name of club: Hindley Karate Club.
Address: Hindley Sports Centre, Mornington road, Hindley.