Welcome to the ZKS Summer Competition 2026
More than a grading — it is an experience.
Whether you are already booked or still deciding, the ZKS Summer Competition gives students the chance to step up in confidence, skill and character. It is an opportunity to perform, show progress and gain valuable experience in a safe, structured environment.
The Summer Competition is primarily aimed at our coloured belt members, particularly those working through the main progression pathway from Yellow Belt through to Brown Belt. We currently have 522 coloured belt members and only 176 competition places available, so spaces are limited and are expected to fill quickly.
Not sure if your child is eligible?
Check Assessment & Eligibility CriteriaWe are especially keen to see Blue Belts and above attending. At this stage, competition becomes an important part of development — helping students apply their skills under pressure, refine their technique, gain feedback, and continue progressing at a higher standard.
White Belts are also welcome to book, provided they are ready for the experience and are happy to take part. Parents should bear in mind that White Belts may sometimes face students of a higher grade, but we do use a handicap system to help make matches fairer and more manageable for less experienced competitors.
Whether a student is aiming to medal, gain experience, or simply challenge themselves in a new setting, the Summer Competition is a valuable part of their martial arts journey.
Why choose the competition?
The Summer Competition is more than just an event — it is one of the biggest opportunities of the year for students to progress, perform, and gain real experience.
- Guaranteed next belt: All participants will still be guaranteed their next belt promotion through taking part.
- Double grading opportunity up to Blue Belt: Students up to and including Blue Belt who medal can choose to move up two belts instead of one.
- Medal positions count: Gold, Silver, Bronze and Runner-Up medal winners are all eligible to opt for a double grade.
- Strong chance of success: A regular competition has a maximum of 16 competitors, and students may have the chance to medal in either Kumite or Ne-Waza.
- More than a grading: Students get to apply what they have learned under pressure in a safe, supportive environment with family and friends cheering them on.
Why this is such a big benefit
For many students, this gives them a genuine chance to level up faster than they would through a normal grading route. With limited competitor numbers and multiple medal positions available, the odds of progressing quickly are very strong.
- All competitors still move forward to their next belt
- Medalling gives many students the chance to jump ahead by two belts
- Kumite and Ne-Waza both create opportunities to stand out
- The event gives valuable experience, confidence and feedback
For higher belts, double grading may not usually apply in the same way, but the competition still offers major benefits. It gives students valuable feedback on their current level and highlights exactly what they need to improve as they work towards the more advanced grades.
What if my child is not competing?
Competition is not for everyone, and that is absolutely fine. If your child has no interest in competing but would still like their progress to be recognised, then the in-class belt promotion is the best option.
To book the in-class promotion, you will need to order the belt through the Members Area shop under “Belt Promotion”. Please make sure you select the correct next belt when ordering.
| Current Grade | Next Grade to Order |
|---|---|
| White Belt | Yellow Belt |
| Yellow Belt | Orange Belt |
| Orange Belt | Red Belt |
| Red Belt | Green Belt |
| Green Belt | Blue Belt |
| Blue Belt | Purple Belt |
| Purple Belt | Purple Stripe Belt |
| Purple Stripe Belt | Brown Belt |
| Brown Belt | Brown Stripe Belt |
Benefits of competition
For students who do want to take part, competition offers far more than just a belt. It gives them the chance to test themselves, gain experience, and grow in confidence.
- Build resilience through challenge
- Learn to perform under pressure
- Develop sportsmanship and team spirit
- Reinforce technical skills through live application
- Improve focus, confidence and emotional control
- Receive valuable feedback for future progress
Whether a student chooses competition or in-class promotion, both routes allow their progress to be recognised in a positive way.
Competition vs In-Class Promotion
Simple pricing. Clear options. No hidden extras.
Choose the option that best suits your child’s progression this term.
Competition Entry
£40
- Competition entry included
- New belt included
- Any medals earned on the day included
- One free spectator entry included
- Chance to medal in Kumite or Ne-Waza
- Chance to double grade up to Blue Belt
Double grade option: If a student up to Blue Belt medals and chooses to accept a double grade, there is an additional £5 fee to cover the extra belt and admin.
Best value option for students wanting the biggest opportunity to progress, perform and potentially level up twice.
In-Class Belt Promotion
£20
- New belt included
- Belt awarded in class
- No competition entry
- No medals
- No double grade option
- Limited chance for spectators
This is the simpler route for students who are not competing but still want to receive their next belt in class.
A good option for straightforward progression, but without the added experience and extra opportunities available through the competition.
Have you booked the Competition?
Once booked, click the relevant event time above to view your competition table, group and arrival information.
Please make sure you check the correct day, venue and time before attending.
To book the competition, log in to the Members Area and go to Bookings > New Booking.
If you are not booking the competition, you will need to order your child’s belt promotion separately through the shop in the Members Area.
Saturday 18 July
2:30 PM
For our youngest members
Venue: ZKSMA HQ
Sunday 19 July
9:00 AM, 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM
Competition groups
Venue: Fairford Leys Centre