Student Progress & Rank Maintenance

Modified on Mon, 2 Jun at 4:02 PM

Student Progress & Rank Maintenance Policy

Purpose This policy outlines how extended periods of non-training affect student progress and rank within our programs, ensuring transparency and maintaining the integrity of our martial arts standards.

1. Definitions

Active Membership: A student who is current with dues and attends classes regularly.
Membership Freeze: A temporary pause in membership, typically due to medical, travel, or personal reasons, as per our Membership Hold/Freeze Policy.
Lapsed Membership: A membership that has expired or been canceled, resulting in a cessation of training.
Extended Absence: A period exceeding 30 days without class attendance, regardless of membership status.

2. Impact on Rank and Progress

We understand that life can sometimes necessitate a break from training. However, it's important to recognize that martial arts skills are perishable and can diminish without regular practice. Based on our experience, for every week a student is away from training, it typically takes about two weeks of consistent practice to regain their previous proficiency. This means that extended absences can significantly impact a student's progress and readiness for advancement. Our goal is to support each student in their martial arts journey, and we encourage open communication about any anticipated breaks so we can provide guidance on maintaining skills during time away.

a. Short-Term Absence (Up to 30 Days)

Effect: No immediate impact on rank or progress.
Recommendation: Students are encouraged to attend makeup classes to stay on track.

b. Extended Absence (31–90 Days)

Effect: Potential skill regression; students may require review sessions to regain proficiency.
Action: Instructors will assess readiness before resuming regular progression.

c. Long-Term Absence (Over 90 Days)

Effect: Significant skill degradation; possible adjustment in rank to reflect current ability.
Action: Mandatory evaluation to determine appropriate class placement and potential need for remedial training. The student's attendance record for their current rank will be set to 0 classes.

d. Prolonged Absence (Over 6 Months but less than 12 Months)

Effect: Extensive skill loss and reduced physical conditioning.
Action: Student's rank will be reduced by one full colour rank to reflect current skill retention and the need for reintegration.

e. Absence Over 12 Months

Effect: Skills are considered to have lapsed entirely.
Action: Student will be required to restart training from white belt. A personalized progression plan may be developed on a case-by-case basis.

3. Rank Reassessment Protocol

Evaluation: Upon return, students will undergo an assessment to determine current skill level.
Outcome: Based on the evaluation, students may:
- Resume training at their previous rank with additional support.
- Be assigned to a lower rank to match current proficiency, with a tailored plan to regain former status.

4. Communication and Documentation

Notification: Students are required to inform the academy of any planned absences exceeding 30 days.
Documentation: All absences and related communications will be recorded in the student's file to assist in future evaluations.

5. Special Considerations

Medical Leaves: Students returning from medical absences will be accommodated with personalized plans, considering their health and recovery.
Military or Academic Commitments: Extended absences due to service or studies will be handled on a case-by-case basis, with efforts made to support continued progression.

6. Appeals Process

Procedure: Students may appeal decisions regarding rank adjustments by submitting a written request to the Head Instructor within 14 days of the assessment.
Review: The appeal will be reviewed, and a decision will be communicated within 7 days.

This policy ensures that all students understand the importance of consistent training and the procedures in place to support their martial arts journey, even during extended absences.