The Aikido Grading Process

All students will have an opportunity to grade twice a year. This will however, depend on the student’s general attitude and commitment to practice, number of courses attended and the ability to master the basic techniques. 

Our unique grading syllabus, is set by the Principal Instructors within the Association, Senshin Aikido Ryu and follows a structured approach from novice/beginner level through to Black Belt Dan Grade and beyond.  It has been carefully formulated to follow a logical process based on the hours of attendance, courses attended, attitude, commitment and technical skill and delivery through application. Within this process all applications, especially those for Black Belt Gradings are considered by the student's Instructors as well as the Heads of the Association. 

Weapons Training and Grading Process

Practice at Haden Hill Aikido Club also offers all students the opportunity to take part in our unique Weapons Training Programme.  This involves techniques using weapons that are universally associated with the Art of Aikido: i.e.

The Jo (Wooden Staff),

The Bokken (Wooden Sword)

The Tanto (Wooden Knife).

Within our Weapons Training Programme there is an emphasis on Jo and Bokken Katas that allow students to develop focus, body movement and concentration. 

Specialist Stick Fighting classes are also taught within class to the higher kyu grades and at Black Belt level. Once students have mastered the basic moves, they have the opportunity to take part in a Weapons Grading.    

Children's Grading Process

Your Child’s Safety Is Our Priority.  The Aikido techniques and katas within our training and grading syllabus have been specifically modified to accommodate the very young practitioners and remain within the appropriate age limits.   There are no joint locking techniques performed on children and all techniques remain non-aggressive. There is however, a strong emphasis during each lesson on discipline, etiquette and respect for each other.

At present, Haden Hill Aikido Club is the only Club within Senshin Aikido Ryu that offers two children's classes each week and as such, we have been charged with ensuring the Children’s Aikido Training and Gradiing Programme meets with the required standard set within the Grading Syllabus and meets the specified requirements of the British Aikido Board for the young practitioners.

The Grading Day 

Grading is an important part of your child’s development and recognition of their own achievements.  As well as learning social skills and making new friends, it will help them gain confidence, concentration and build their character. As their Instructors, we will work with them to achieve this step by step through our unique training programme and grading syllabus. 

We recognise grading is an important event for your child and all children will have the opportunity to take part in grading twice a year.  All successful students will be awarded an official recognised Association Certificate on the day.

All we ask of parents is that you come along with friends and family to support your child’s achievements and to celebrate their success.