21 November 2025
Whether you’re a parent new to martial arts or a student preparing for your next belt, understanding how gradings work — and why they matter — can make the process smoother, more meaningful, and far more enjoyable.
A judo grading is a structured assessment where students perform specific techniques, demonstrate their understanding of judo principles, and show improvement in their attendance, attitude, and ability — known in our club as the 3 A’s.
During a grading, coaches assess:
Technical knowledge
Movement and control
Core judo skills appropriate for the student’s belt level
Confidence and effort
Understanding of etiquette and behaviour on the mat
Gradings happen during normal class times, making the process calm, supportive, and familiar for students.
Judo is built on continuous improvement, both physically and mentally. Grading is one of the strongest motivators for this long-term growth.
Each belt represents a collection of attainable, manageable steps. These small goals help students stay motivated, focused, and excited about learning. Instead of chasing one huge achievement, judoka build skill by mastering small, progressive challenges over time.
Judo belts aren’t handed out — they’re earned.
The grading system reinforces the idea that consistent effort, good behaviour, and regular attendance lead to progression. This builds strong habits in:
Discipline
Perseverance
Self-confidence
Patience
These lessons often stick with children far beyond the dojo.
Every grading is a celebration of how far a student has come. It’s also a reminder that improvement looks different for everyone. Some students gain confidence, others sharpen their technique, and some push past their own limits.
Gradings acknowledge all types of progress — not just results you can see on the surface.
To make sure every student progresses safely and fairly, we assess:
Regular training is essential. If a student hasn’t been to enough classes since their last grading, they may not yet be ready — especially seniors who work shifts or offshore.
Respect, focus, listening skills, and behaviour on the mat all matter.
Good attitude = good judo.
Students must demonstrate techniques suitable for their level, showing understanding, control, and safe practice.
To take part in any grading, students must hold a valid Judo Scotland membership. This provides insurance and registers their progress officially.
Accepted membership types:
Full membership ✔️
Provisional with automatic renewal ✔️
Not accepted:
Free provisional licences ❌
All grades are officially recognised and registered with Judo Scotland and the International Judo Federation (IJF), meaning your grade is valid worldwide.
Signing up only takes a few minutes. Make sure all three steps are completed — incomplete entries cannot be accepted.
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It must be in date and the correct type for grading.
Registering early helps the coaching team prepare:
Grade checks
Licence validations
Belt ordering
Class planning
Gradings involve a lot of work behind the scenes, so early sign-ups ensure everything runs smoothly and no student is delayed.
A judo grading is far more than a test — it’s a milestone. It encourages students to grow, rewards their effort, and builds confidence step by step. With the support of coaches, parents, and fellow students, every grading becomes a positive and memorable experience.
If you're preparing for the next grading, take your time, stay consistent, and enjoy the journey. Progress comes from steady effort — and the reward is worth it.
10 November 2025
