A simplified grading syllabus exists to encourage young children to progress with their karate training. To differentiate it from adult Kyu grades, these are referred to as Kodomo Tokyu (Child Grade), a distinctive belt-system used to signify progress through these grades.

• The system is compulsory for children up to the age of 12 years, but may be extended to 15 years where there is a special need
• Waiting time between each Kodomo Tokyu examination is a minimum 2 months, based on a minimum 2 hours training per week
• Belts will have a base colour with a single contrasting lengthwise coloured stripe
• The 1st Tokyu of each series will be awarded for successful demonstration of Kihon only
• The 2nd Tokyu of each series will be awarded for successful demonstration of Kihon + Kata
• The 3rd Tokyu of each series will be awarded for successful demonstration of Kata + Kumite
• Full Kodomo grade will be awarded for successful demonstration of Kihon + Kata + Kumite
• The club instructor will select the level that the student is to be examined at based on their ability
• The examiner will determine the grade awarded based on their performance
• Junior or Cadet Black Belt grades may be awarded to students under the
  age of 16 years, using the association Cadet Grading Syllabus
• These grades may be taken within their own club under a National Grading Examiner
• There is no requirement for students taking Cadet Black belts to attend an ESA Black and Brown belt course prior to grading
• The waiting time between 1st Kodomo and 1st Cadet Black Belt is 6 months, based on a minimum of 2 hours training per week and between 1st and 2nd Cadet Black belt is 2 years.
• The recognised Insignia for all Cadet Black Belt is a Black Belt with a thin red stripe running the length of the belt
• Upon reaching 16 years of age, a Cadet Black Belt may apply, through their instructor, to be upgraded to senior 1st Dan, achieved by completing the appropriate form. This request will be considered by the Technical Committee, using established criteria, and the application will then be referred for physical re-assessment
• In accordance with ESA rules, upgrades to Shodan will be registered with the ESA and the official Governing Body for Karate in England. The timescale for progress to 2nd Dan and above will commence from the date of registration
• The highest level of Cadet Black Belt permitted is 2nd degree but when reaching 16 years old will still only grade for Shodan.
• Only persons with a valid licence / record book who have completed the required training period may present for examination.