Last Updated: 15th April 2022
The aim of the kyu grading system is to encourage students during the early stages of their karate journey, and provide constructive feedback on the development of their karate. Kyu gradings are opportunities for karateka to demonstrate their skills, knowledge and understanding of Shotokan Karate. They should not be seen as obstacles or hurdles to be overcome, but assessments of progress that encourage further development. Kyu gradings also provide the opportunity for instructors to assess the effectiveness of the learning and teaching strategies they have employed. Kyu gradings assess the performance of the club instructors, as well as that of the karateka.