Grading Structure

The Wing Chun Federation

(revised & updated, July 2006)

The criteria this 'grading system' attempts to address are:

1. 'Goal Setting' & 'Mile-stone' for the student.

2. To point out what concepts, techniques and drills students ought to be aware of in order to develop their skills in the Wong Shun Leung Method of Wing Chun Kung-fu in a systematic way.

3. Gradings serve as a direct form of feedback, allowing the instructors to observe and test a student's conceptual and practical knowledge, and to point out ways in which the student can further improve upon their skills. All students are encouraged to attempt them.

4. The 'Grading Syllabus' does not represent a limit to what is taught to students. It does, however, present the order in which techniques should be learnt to a high degree of proficiency.

5. For many people, gradings serve as a means of motivating them to achieve a higher standard, a way of pushing themselves a little harder to improve.

The WCF does not have coloured belts to indicate rank. Progress is determined by the student's aptitude, not how long they've trained for. Students should know the correct Chinese terminology for all techniques.

Gradings are generally held when it is felt that they are needed, and if a student feels they are eligible, they are encouraged to go for the grading, but no one is ever forced to do so. However, attaining certification at all levels is required in order to be recognised as an authorised instructor.

Level 0ne – Elementary Proficiency Certificate

 

·         Siu Nim Tau form

·         Basic Attacking footwork (Saam Gok Bo) with punches

·         Forward Defensive stepping (Seung Ma) from the basic stance (Yi Ji Kim Yeung Ma) with various hand techniques

·         Ascending “Heel” Kick (Dang Geuk) from Basic Attack Stance (Saam Gok Ma)

·         Pivoting (Juen Ma) with various hand techniques

·         Random “Four Corners” (Da Sei Moon) exercise

·         Side-stepping (Tui Ma) and counter attack against random straight attacks

·         Paak Sau drill demonstrating various attacking techniques

·         Single Hand Chi Sau (Dan Chi Sau)

·         Double-hand Chi Sau – rolling only (Poon Sau)

·         Relevant questions on theory /form/combat strategy

·         Defence against random single attacker (limited situations)

 

Possible Questions You Could Be Asked:

a)         Explain the form and function of the Basic Stance (Yi Ji Kim Yeung Ma)

b)         Explain the advantages of the basic Vertical Punch (Yat Ji Kuen)

c)         Describe the action and usage of Taan Sau.

d)         What is the function of Wu Sau?

e)         Discuss the differences (in form and function) between the Jing Jeung (vertical) and Waang Jeung (horizontal) palm-strike techniques.

f)          What is the function and theory of Side-stepping (Tui Ma)?

g)         Describe the action and usage of the Ascending “Heel” Kick (Dang Geuk)

h)         Explain the purpose of the Chi Sau exercise.

i)          “Front-on” versus “side-on” - discuss.

j)          Explain (in detail) FIVE aspects of the first section of the Siu Nim Tau form.

 

Level Two – Intermediate Proficiency Certificate

·         Cham Kiu form

·         Paak Sau drill demonstrating defence against random attacks

·        Ascending “Heel” Kick (Dang Geuk) followed by stepping and punching

·         Side-stepping (Tui Ma) with Side-kick (Waang Geuk) counter attack

·         “Triple-action” Side-stepping (Tui Ma) drill with follow up attacks

·         Punch/Wu Sau partner drill with random attacks

·         Dan Chi Sau with footwork and counter strikes

·         Laap Sau exercise (not from Chi Sau)

·         Stationary “attack & defence” Chi Sau

·         Double-hand Chi Sau (Seung Chi Sau) with basic attacks & defences

·         Relevant questions on theory /form/combat strategy

·         Defence against random single attacker (little or no limitations)

 

Level Three – Advanced Proficiency Certificate (“Black Belt” level)

·         Muk Yan Jong (“wooden dummy”) form – first 60 movements

·         Chi Geuk exercise (with & without counter attacks)

·         Gwoh Sau (free-exercise Chi Sau) - with & without blindfold

·         Relevant questions on theory /form/combat strategy

·         Free-exercise defence against continuous random attacks (single & multiple attackers)

 

Level Four – Assistant Instructor’s Certificate

·         Biu Ji form

·         Muk Yan Jong form

·         Luk Dim Boon Gwan (“6½ Point Pole” form)

·         Relevant questions on theory /form/combat strategy

·         Instruction assessment – ability to teach all requirements of Level One

 

Level Five – Instructor’s Certificate

·         Baat Jaam Do (“Eight-slash Knives” form)

·         Instruction assessment – ability to teach all requirements of Levels Two & Three

·         Presentation of class seminar or written essay on a chosen topic after consultation with the Principal Instructor

·         Relevant questions on theory /form/combat strategy

·         Completion of ‘Level One Coaching Accreditation’ course.

 

 

With thanks to David Peterson of MCMAC