Shii-Cho 1 Drills
Earth, Fire, Water, Air and Lightning drills build basic form, coordination and control.
Pathway
Clear progression from first drill to advanced form.
The pathway gives students a visible route through foundation drills, skills, kata, combat levels and advanced forms. It is a living syllabus, but it gives every session a purpose.
Grading rule
Gradings are accessible on request. If you feel ready, ask an instructor.
Official pathway image
The Vanguard training pathway.
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Readable overview
How the levels fit together.
Shii-Cho 1 Skills
Basic footwork, strikes, control drill and dynamic Fire establish practical fundamentals.
Kata 1 and Combat 1
Students begin specialising through form accuracy or safe controlled sparring.
Shii-Cho 2
Refined drills and skills add greater control, adaptability, precision and expanded movement.
Assessment protocol
How grading works.
Accessible on request
You do not need to wait to be invited. If you want to grade, speak to an instructor.
Instructor readiness check
If the instructor team feels you are ready, they will allow you to attempt the grading.
Clear outcome
You either meet the required standard or receive feedback on what to improve.
Cool-off period
If unsuccessful, there is a two-week cool-off before attempting the same grading again.
Beyond the gate
Advanced forms and long-term direction.
Makashi
Precision, line, economy and blade control.
Djem So
Power, pressure, structure and committed response.
Soresu
Defence, patience, coverage and resilience.
Ataru
Dynamic movement, agility and explosive angles.
Combat 3
Higher-pressure application for experienced combat students.