The Hayashi-Ha Shito-Ryu style has a clearly defined system of grading, where students are required to satisfy the Sensei that they are worthy of advancement to a higher grade.

Each step along the path to Black Belt is called a KYU. A beginning student starts at the 9th Kyu, and progresses towards 1st Kyu by the successful completion of a series of gradings. Where a student has worked exceptionally well, a double grading may be awarded.

Gradings are held in the Shito Ryu style in Tasmania every four months. It is not necessary or desirable that the student grades every time. Many students achieve 3 gradings per year in the early stages.

Dedicated students can achieve black belt ranking in 3 to 4 years.
 

Important Note for Juniors:

For Juniors 15 yrs and under there are stripes in between all belts from Yellow to Purple. These stripes are not a half grading they have been introduced to enable the younger students to handle some of the more challenging aspects of their techniques and are the junior equivalent of a "full" grade.

Les Elliott's Karate Academy
c/- RMB 737 Glenfern Rd, Glenfern Tas 7140
Classes are held at
Landsdowne Cres. Primary School
West Hobart.