White Rose Grading Syllabus

Here at the Durham University Aikido Club we follow the slightly more traditional 'kyu' ranking system, whereby a student gains a kyu number that is indicative of their progress rather than a coloured belt.

There are six levels of kyu grade, descending from sixth to first, after first kyu the 'dan' (black belt) grades begin, ascending from first to tenth.

Whilst a kyu grade, the student wears a white belt. Upon attaining the rank of first kyu they are allowed to wear the hakama, a baggy pair of pleated trousers, generally either black or navy in colour, which mark them out as a senior student within the club and therefore someone that junior members can approach for help or advice.

Upon attaining the rank of first dan, the student is allowed to wear a black belt. This is when the student has enough experiance and knowledge to begin training properly, the Japanese for first dan (shodan) translates literally as 'first step'.

It is considered extremely bad form to ask the instructor to be allowed to grade. Grading is a privilege not a right and is purely by invitation. Saying that, if you turn up regularly, show willing and train hard then you will eventually be invited to grade. We will reward hard work and good spirit.

Please see the links below for a breakdown of the syllabus up to and including first dan.