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Fee Policy

All students are expected to pay their fees at the first class of every quarter. If special circumstances make this impossible, the student is required to seek advice a senior member or the head instructor. It is generally accepted that alternative arrangements can be made under special circumstances however this needs to be initiated by the student. It is inapprioriate for the head instructor or person in charge of the financial affairs of the organization to chase the student for payment of fees.

Attendance Policy

The club takes no formal attendance except during beginners’ class. Members are encouraged to attend all classes but we understand that this is not always possible. However, fewer practices means slower progress. People with limited practice may take a long time to earn the chance to grade and wear bogu.

Dojo Equipment Use Policy

The Shoshin Kendo Club makes equipment available to our student club members. We encourage all club members to practice in club bogu for a minimum of one month before committing to purchasing armour. This is to avoid hasty purchases, as many people find kendo in bogu not to their taste. We have a number of sets in good condition that the club will make available to students who are ready to wear the armour. In case club equipment is in short supply, the priority will be given to students with better attendance record.

Shinai

Students are required to present to the instructor the shinai they bring with them for inspection, if it was purchased from a source other than the dojo. Students are encouraged to borrow the dojo shinai for the first few weeks but are expected to eventually purchase their own shinai.

Bokken

Students are required to present to the instructor the bokken they bring with them for inspection, if it was purchased from a source other than the dojo. Students are encouraged to borrow the dojo bokken for the first few weeks but are expected to eventually purchase their own bokken.

Gi/Hakama

Use of Kendo-gi and Hakama is permitted only when the instructor has specifically given approval to the student to wear them. Student is free to purchase such equipment but is not permitted to wear it until approval is given.

Bogu

Use of Bogu is permitted only when the instructor has specifically given approval to the student to wear it. Student is free to purchase such equipment but is not permitted to wear it until approval is given.

Other

– “supporting gear”: braces, bandages, tapings can only be worn if the instructor has inspected and approved it.

– ornaments: students are asked to remove all ornaments including watches, rings, necklaces, earrings, studs, for the safety and protection of all students.

– karate/judo gi: students can freely use these garnments prior to wearing the Kendo Gi&Hakama, however coloured gi/belts are prohibited.

Grading Policy

Kendo ranks are similar to other Japanese martial arts - kyu and dan. Kyu are the beginner ranks (coloured belts in other martial arts) and start from rokkyu (6th rank) to ikkyu (1st rank). Dan are the senior degrees and start from shodan (1st degree, black belt) to hachidan (8th degree). Ranks below ikkyu can be awarded within the club. Ranks ikkyu and higher can only be awarded by a panel of high ranking instructors (typically outside of T&T). Readiness for grading depends only on attendance, personal progress and ability. As such, grading opportunities will vary based on the individual. Grading requirements are described in the Club documentation.

Dojo Responsibility

Each student is expected to contribute to the organization in the following ways:

1- Regular and prompt payment of fees

2- Help in running and maintenance of the dojo

3- Support of the organization through personal/professional skills