🥋 Regional Kyu & Mon Grading – Bristol, February 2026
Date: 28th February 2026
Venue: St Bede’s Catholic College, Bristol (BS11)
Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo hosted its first Kyu & Mon grading of 2026 on Saturday 28th February at St Bede’s Catholic College, following an earlier squad development session that morning.
Students from across the Southwest region attended, including representatives from:
- Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo (Bristol)
- Westridge Shotokan Karate Club
- SKIF Devon (Exeter)
- SKIF Wales (Newport)
The grading provided an opportunity for students to demonstrate their progress within the SKIF-GB syllabus, as well as train alongside other clubs within the region.
🥋 Pre-Grading Training Session
The afternoon began with a one-hour pre-grading training session (1:00–2:00pm), led by Sensei Dave Griffiths (7th Dan)—Chief Instructor of SKIF Wales and SKIF-GB Wales & Southwest Regional Coach.
The session focused on:
- Kihon (basics)
- Kumite (partner work)
- Kata
Particular emphasis was placed on the correct use of hikete, reinforcing the importance of strong foundational technique across all grades.
🏯 The Grading Process
The grading panel was structured across three key areas:
- Kihon: Dave Griffiths & Neil Bishop
- Kumite: Steve Ashby & Sharon Joseph
- Kata: Nick Bruce-Jones
Students were assessed according to the SKIF-GB syllabus:
- Kihon: Demonstrating core techniques including punches, kicks, and blocks
- Kumite: Partner work including Gohon Kumite, Kihon Ippon Kumite, and Jiyu Ippon Kumite (grade dependent)
- Kata: Performing kata to the appropriate technical standard
Students are observed throughout the day, including during the pre-grading training session, where instructors begin to form an overall picture of each individual’s readiness.
In addition to technical ability, students are continually assessed on:
- Presentation
- Etiquette
- Spirit and attitude
This reflects the traditional approach within SKIF-GB karate, where grading is based on overall development rather than performance in a single moment.
🧒 Mon Grades – Building Early Foundations
Two students were assessed under the Mon grade syllabus, which provides a structured pathway of eight stages for younger students.
This system allows students to build confidence, develop technique, and progress steadily towards 9th Kyu (red belt).
🥋 Kyu Grading – Progression Through the Ranks
Kyu grade candidates were assessed from 9th Kyu (red belt) through to 1st Kyu (brown belt).
Across the region:
- SKIF Devon: 3 students graded
- SKIF Wales / Exeter: 4 students graded
- Kyoto:
- 2 Mon grades
- 15 Kyu grades (including 3 intermediate half-grades)
A notable achievement was Phoenix, who successfully graded to 1st Kyu, now entering the final stage of preparation towards Shodan (black belt), with a potential grading in 2027.
🎖️ Maintaining Standards
At Kyoto and within SKIF-GB, gradings are approached with a strong emphasis on readiness and standard.
Students are carefully assessed prior to grading, and only those who are considered prepared are put forward. This ensures that each grading represents a meaningful step in development, maintaining the quality and integrity of progression through the ranks.
Students not grading on this occasion continue their preparation towards the next opportunity in July.
🏆 Belt Presentation
This marks an important milestone in each student’s karate journey, reflecting both their effort and ongoing commitment to training.
🤝 Regional Development and Collaboration
Events such as this highlight the strength of the Southwest region within SKIF-GB, with students and instructors training together across clubs.
This shared approach helps ensure consistency of standards and provides valuable experience for all participants.
☕ Post-Grading Reflection
Following the grading, Sensei Nick Bruce-Jones and Sensei Steve Ashby took time to reflect on the day over coffee, reviewing performances and planning for continued development ahead of the next grading.
🏯 Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo
Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo continues to support the development of students across all levels, providing structured training and opportunities to progress through the SKIF-GB syllabus.