When children move between programmes and how to prepare for their next class.
Little Dragons (age 3–4) → Mini Ninjas (Reception–Year 2) → Junior Martial Arts (Year 3–Year 6) → Teen Martial Arts (Year 7–Year 11) → Adult Training (normally 16+).
Movement normally follows school year or age and may also take account of individual suitability. Belt grade alone does not override the programme’s age or school-year structure. Follow ZKS’s confirmed arrangements rather than changing programme independently.
Little Dragons are invited to move to Mini Ninjas on or after their fifth birthday, taking account of individual suitability. Mini Ninjas follows the Reception–Year 2 school-year group; wait for ZKS’s move-up invitation. We will ask you to pay for the graduation pack by Stripe or Direct Debit in readiness for the move. Follow your invitation for the pack and new-class arrangements.
Children finishing Year 2 move from Mini Ninjas to Junior MA in September as they enter Year 3. Follow the move-up information and check the equipment required for the new programme.
Children finishing Year 6 move into Teen MA in September as they enter Year 7. A birthday during Year 6 does not itself move a student into Teen MA. Teen sparring requires shin and instep guards (not the elasticated type) and suitable hand protection.
Around Year 11 / age 16, eligible members may be invited to adult sessions depending on maturity, grade and suitability, and must complete the Teen waiver. Follow the invitation and confirm the waiver and class arrangements before attending.
Check the new class, venue, start date and equipment requirements in the information we send you. Ask through the Members Area if anything is unclear before purchasing equipment or attending the new class.
Last updated: 17 September 2026
