⚫️ 1st Dan Black Belt Grading – A Historic Moment ⚫️

This September marks a defining chapter in our dojo’s history.

For the first time, our complete 1st Dan Black Belt Grading will be conducted in its full and uncompromising format.

Stepping forward to undertake the 5 week long evaluation will be Andy Mifflin and Alan Freeman.

They are not simply candidates.

They are my first students — the very first individuals to walk through the doors, place their trust in me as a Sensei, and help lay the foundation of this dojo.

That carries weight.

I developed and authored this full 1st Dan grading syllabus — building it from the ground up to reflect the exact standard, realism, and accountability I expect from a Dan grade in this dojo. Uncompromising , structured, and true to our values.

Their grading will take place on the following dates:

• Saturday 5th September – Part 1 (15:00 – 17:00)

• Sunday 6th September – Part 2 (09:20 – 12:00)

• Saturday 12th September – Part 3 (15:00 – 17:00)

• Sunday 13th September – Part 4 (09:20 – 12:00)

• Saturday 19th September – Part 5 (15:00 – 17:00)

• Sunday 20th September – Part 6 (15:00 – 17:00)

• Saturday 26th September – Part 7 & March of the Dan (08:00)

• Saturday 26th September – 1st Dan Presentation Ceremony (17:00 – 18:00)

Throughout this month-long assessment, they will be tested on:

• Advanced striking combinations, spins, and jumping techniques

• Full kata performance and practical bunkai application

• Realistic self-defence scenarios under pressure

• Ground survival and escape principles

• Multi-format sparring

• Legal knowledge and ethical justification of force

• First aid competence

• Written examinations on philosophy, criminology, anatomy, and responsibility

• Physical endurance and conditioning

• The final 10-mile weighted March of the Dan

This grading is structured to measure consistency, composure, judgement, and character — not a single performance, but a sustained standard.

Why 5 weeks? Because anyone can have a fluke, and this means you must show consistent skill and knowledge throughout a long period of time.

A Black Belt in our dojo represents more than technical ability.

It represents accountability.

Control under pressure.

Strength guided by ethics.

Leadership through example.

September will not simply test skill.

It will define a benchmark.

The standard is clear.

Now it will be honoured.