Junior – Joining

Joining Kodokan Juniors

Sessions are held weekly for age groups 7 to 17 years.

The standard procedure for joining the Kodokan Juniors, is to come along and watch a Saturday practice session, or even two (if still undecided), before joining the club for the 4 week induction period and progression to beginner level.

Saturday times: 10.30am - 12.30pm all Juniors.

All new members will need to complete 4 'consecutive' induction sessions:

After completing the induction new members are eligible to join the regular practise sessions, which run on the same time schedule.

We also run competition sessions, special junior events and levels permitting, A 'Junior Shiai (competition) league' with a results table and a Trophy being presented at the end of the year to the overall winner with awards for the runners up.  When active the sessions are highlighted in blue on the calendar.

 Kodokan Club fee structure

There is a £35 joining fee which includes, shinai - (bamboo sword), carry bag, insurance and membership booklet/grading record +  £27 for the 4 induction sessions: Total £62

After the 4 week induction should the junior wish to continue then a standing order or direct debit needs to be set up to cover the monthly fee of £27 at that time.

We offer discounted fees where there are other Junior members from the same family practicing, a collective fee of £44 for 2 or more members and where there are Adult(s) as well as Junior(s) then a collective fee of £60 per family.

All monthly fees are payable by Standing order or Direct Debit only.

The Annual 'Club' renewal for an existing member is £10.

Gradings (There are no fees for grading)

We operate a 12 kyu system based on coloured ‘Tag’ markers ( 2 per colour) attached to  the handle of the shinai - bamboo sword.

Ideally hakama, keikogi & zekken should be purchased around the time of the first grading

Gradings are held every 2 months (8 weeks) this means 2nd kyu is attainable between one and a half to two years practice. Certificates are issued according to the Grade level achieved.

For gradings within the age group 15 to 17 the Adult system of 7 Kyu levels applies and is based on a similar time frame. (those aged 15 to 17 will start at 7th Kyu)

Juniors wishing to grade for Ikkyu and dan grades will need to do so through the British Kendo Association.   Full details are available on request.

Older and more experienced junior members are also welcome to attend our regular Tuesday Senior practice sessions ( by invitation only).