Senshin Judo Grading System

More Than Just Belts

At Senshin, we believe that grades should represent genuine development rather than simply time spent attending classes.


A belt is not awarded simply for attendance or for learning a set number of techniques. It recognises a student’s progress, effort and personal development throughout their judo journey.


As children progress through the grades, they are expected to develop not only their technical skills, but also their understanding of judo, their ability to apply what they have learned, and the values and behaviours that underpin the sport.


For this reason, grading at Senshin considers the whole student. We look at technical development, knowledge, practical application and attitude, ensuring that each grade represents meaningful progress both on and off the mat.


Our goal is not simply to award belts, but to help young people become more confident, capable and resilient through judo. Each grade recognises and celebrates another important step in that development.

When Can I Grade Next

You can check your grading eligibility below:

How Grading at The Senshin Judo Team Works

To be eligible for promotion, students must satisfy the basic requirements for their grade, including:

  • Current Irish Judo Association licence
  • Minimum age requirements
  • Minimum attendance requirements
  • Minimum time-in-grade requirements


Once these requirements have been met, students become eligible to begin the grading process. Our admin team will notify eligible Judoka each month via email.


The Senshin Judo Team grading process consists of two components:

  • Theory Assessment
  • Contest Requirement

Theory Assessment

We follow the Irish Judo Association's Grading Syllabus. While not every element of the syllabus will be covered during regular classes, coaches will support children preparing to grade, helping them develop the knowledge and techniques required for their next grade.


Candidates are not expected to be perfect or to know everything, but they are expected to make a good effort to prepare properly before attending a theory assessment. Assessments are conducted in a supportive and collaborative manner, helping students demonstrate what they have learned and understand what is required for the next stage of their development.


Possible Theory Assessments outcomes are Grade Passed with Merit, Grade Passed, or Grade Deferred. 

Syllabus

The Irish Judo Grading syllabus provides an excellent guide to the knowledge and understanding expected as students progress through the grades and take greater ownership of their development.

The Grading Book was originally developed by Ben Clayden during his time as General Secretary of the Irish Judo Association. Produced in collaboration with former World Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist Nicola Fairbrother, it was designed to provide young judoka with a clear understanding of the knowledge, terminology, values and principles that underpin their development in judo.

Expectations at Each Stage

Children wishing to grade are expected to demonstrate an appropriate level of understanding, knowledge and technical proficiency for the grade they are working towards.

White Belt to Orange Belt - Building Foundations

Students focus on learning basic skills, safety, etiquette and developing positive training habits.

Orange Belt to Blue Belt - Building Capability

Students are expected to demonstrate increasing technical competence, understanding and the ability to apply their skills in practice and in competition.

Blue Belt to Brown Belt - Building Leaders

Students are expected to demonstrate strong technical ability while acting as positive role models through their attitude, leadership and commitment to helping others.

Theory Assessment Days

Theory Assessments take place every month on the morning of the Senshin Grand Prix events, with the Grand Prix competition taking place that afternoon. The Theory Assessment and Senshin Grand Prix are separate events, and students must register for each individually using the relevant booking form.

During the Theory Assessment, students demonstrate their understanding of the techniques, terminology and principles appropriate to the grade they are working towards. To prepare, students are encouraged to use the Irish Judo Association’s Interactive Grading Syllabus and ask their coaches for help during regular classes if they are unsure about any part of the syllabus.

Examiners will provide guidance, help students correct their techniques and give every candidate a reasonable opportunity to demonstrate the standard required to pass. If a candidate does not meet the minimum standard (ie "Grade Deferred"), they will be advised on what they need to improve and invited to retake the assessment at the next available event at no additional cost.

Book Theory Assessment (by Invite Only)

Please do not book a theory assessment unless you have been invited to do so.


Invitations to grade will be sent to eligible players at least two weeks before each Grading Theory Assessment. Registrations submitted by players who have not received an invitation or are not eligible to grade will be declined.

Contest Requirements by Grade

Contest Requirements by Grade

In addition to completing their Theory Assessment, students are encouraged to take part in contests as part of their grading and overall judo development. For children, participation in any suitable competition counts towards their grading record.

White Belt to Orange Belt - 1st through to 6th Mon

  • Participation in one competition per grade required.
  • No contest wins required.

Orange Belt to Green Belt - 7th & 8th Mon

  • Participation in one competition per grade required.
  • Minimum of 1 contest win required per grade

Green Belt to Blue Belt - 9th & 10th Mon

  • Participation in one competition per grade required.
  • Minimum of 2 contest wins required per grade

Blue Belt to Brown Belt - 11th & 12th Mon

  • Participation in one competition per grade required.
  • Minimum of 2 contest wins required per grade.

Contest Opportunities

The Senshin Judo Team hosts a Grand Prix event every month, providing students with regular, supportive opportunities to gain contest experience within the club.

Students may also be invited to compete at appropriate regional, national or international events. Both their participation and results at these events will be recognised as part of the contest requirements for their next grade.