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The Academy runs a grading preparation programme twice per year in the lead up to the black belt gradings in the ITFNZ calendar. Participants should make every effort to attend every session.

Past participants who have not yet graded are more than welcome to repeat the programme.

The full 14-week programme includes:

• Specialist instruction
• Pine boards for breaking
• 'Mock Grading' with feedback

2026 February-May Programme (for June grading)

Starts on Sunday 15 February
1st gups - Sundays 3.30-5pm
1st & 2nd dans - Sundays 5-6.30pm

15 February
22 February
8 March
15 March
22 March
29 March
5 April
12 April
19 April - Mock Grading (full day)
26 April
3 May
10 May
17 May
​24 May

2026 August-November Programme (for December grading)

Starts on Sunday 16 August
1st gups - Sundays 3.30-5pm
1st & 2nd dans - Sundays 5-6.30pm

16 August
23 August
30 August
6 September
13 September
20 September
27 September
4 October
11 October
18 October - Mock Grading (full day)
25 October
1 November
8 November
15 November
​22 November

“You don’t know what you don’t know", and the Black Belt academy certainly filled in the blanks around the required standard and what to expect on the day. Master Bhana has a very keen eye and can pick up technical errors you probably don’t even realise you’re making. A highly valuable course for those looking to grade and a great opportunity to meet the other candidates. 
- Matt Guadagni, 1st dan

"Black belt academy is a great opportunity to meet and train with students from different clubs under the guidance of expert instructors."
- Andy Stapleton, 1st dan