Graduation - December 2025
- North Manchester FMAC
- Dec 10
- 9 min read
Our final Graduation of 2025.... Let's make it the best one yet!
Graduations happen in the Sports Hall at Bury Grammar School, located at Tenterden Street, Bury BL9 0HN.
How to get to Graduation?
You can find the Sports Hall entrance at Bury Grammar School on Tenterden Street. We’re situated on the Boys School site, right in the Sports Hall. Simply look for the entrance on that sharp corner about halfway down Tenterden Street.
You have the option to park on-site, and there are also street parking spots nearby - just make sure to check any rules. Alternatively, there is plenty of paid parking at the Castle Leisure Centre, which is just across Jubilee Way.
If you prefer to use public transport (which is a great option for many Prestwich students!), the buses and trams stop at Bury Interchange. From there, it’s a quick 5-minute walk to the graduation venue.
When is it?
The normal Graduation is on Sunday 14th December 2025. Make sure that you attend the time for your CURRENT Belt colour / Grade.
You can find all the 2026 graduation dates and times in the centres, on Facebook, Instagram and on the website - just a friendly reminder, you can find them here.
If you’re new to Graduations, you might want to read what some students have to say about it here.
If you can’t make it to Graduation on the 14th due to religious, cultural, work or holiday reasons, don’t worry! There are other options available. You need to have requested one when you submitted your form, and you should have received the details via text. If not, you’ll need to be at Bury Grammar School on Sunday. If you didn’t submit a Graduation Form, the next opportunity to Graduate will be in December.
Please ensure you attend your scheduled graduation; otherwise, your belt and certificate will not be available for you. If anyone has a last-minute issue or illness, please contact their Instructor for advice and guidance.
Tigers (9.00am)
When you arrive, just swing by the Reception area and check in with the Instructor. Be sure to give your name so we can have all the certificates ready for the Graduation ceremony - let's avoid any last-minute surprises! No need to get here too early; 8:45 am is perfect for you to get settled and for us to set up the hall. If you come earlier, you won't be able to get in anyway!
Parents, don't worry! We've got plenty of Instructors ready to help our youngest students remember and show off what they've learned. Some Instructors will be up front doing demos, while others will be around to give extra support. All your little Tiger needs to do is follow along and do their thing just like in class!
For the Tigers, Graduation is just like another big class. All they have to do is show up in their uniforms, do what they've been practicing, and they're all set! It's usually the parents who are more nervous than the Tigers.
At Graduation, Master Parkinson might ask these questions:
What is the name of our martial art? (Tang Soo Do)
Where do we practice our martial art? (In the Do Jang)
What is our uniform called? (Do Bok)
What is the new belt that you will collect called? (Dee)
What is the Korean for Horse Stance? (Keema Jaseh)
Plus, all the stuff we've been discussing as part of our ‘Road Safety’ theme.
Be there 10 minutes early and wait in the waiting area to be called through just before 9.00am.
Just like in class, they'll be showing off:
Double Low Block
Back Kick
Hopping Side Kick
Double Palm Strike
Horse Stance
Two onto Two self-defense (you will need to get involved, parents)
and a Combination of Palm Strike, Palm Strike, Knee
Don't forget to take lots of pics and share your wild Tiger adventures on the Tiger Facebook pages! Make sure to grab a selfie with your favourite Instructor.
Middleton - https://www.facebook.com/FMACMiddletonTigers
Prestwich - https://www.facebook.com/FMACPrestwichTigers
White & Yellow Belts (10.00am)
This group is for all striped belts who've moved up from Tigers, plus everyone with White and Yellow Belts. You'll recognise a lot of familiar Instructors leading the way. Be sure to arrive 10 minutes early and chill in the designated spot until you're called in as a group.
If it's your first time at a Graduation, see what some students have to say about it here.
Just a heads-up, your syllabus includes:
Low Block (Ha Dan Mahk Kee)
Roundhouse Kick (Dullyo Cha Gi)
Both Chop Kicks (Ahneso Pahkuro Cha Gi & Pahkeso Ahnuro Cha Gi)
Chop & Cross
Back Stance (Hu Gul Jaseh)
Same Side self-defence number 1
Yellow Belts, remember the previous syllabus from October!
You can check out the necessary terms here. To watch videos on various techniques, click here.
Orange & Blue Belts (11.00am)
This group needs to demonstrate the current syllabus (above) and go over some techniques you've already learned. Revisit the syllabus so you can ensure that you are well-prepared and aware of the expectations required for your current level. In addition, reviewing these techniques will reinforce your foundational skills and help you build confidence as you progress on your martial arts journey.
Middle and High Blocks
Side, Front, Horse, and Cross-Legged Stances
Back Fist and Cross, plus Jab and Cross
Front and Side Kicks
2-on-2 and Cross-Hand Self-Defences
Additionally, Blue Belts will get to demonstrate their skills by showcasing the Beginner Form, known as Cho Bo Ja Hyung. This form is a fundamental aspect of your training, as it encapsulates the basic movements and techniques you have learned thus far. Performing this form not only reinforces your understanding of the techniques but also allows you to express your martial arts journey and progress to your Instructors and peers.
You can find the Blue Belt Terminology in the Student Zone here. It is crucial to familiarise yourself with this terminology, as it will aid in your understanding of the techniques and concepts at the next level of your training. Furthermore, make sure to turn in your completed blue Beginners Workbook before Graduation. This workbook is an essential tool for tracking your progress and ensuring you have a solid grasp of the foundational material covered in your training. If you have lost yours, you can easily buy a new one from the Club Shop or through the Wix App.
6th Gups to 4th Gups (Green Belts) (12.00pm)
Remember your sparring gear - unless you fancy doing the "Oops, I forgot" shuffle of shame to the front desk, which is an experience no one wants to endure. It's essential to arrive prepared and equipped for your sparring session, as this not only enhances your performance but also demonstrates respect for your training and fellow martial artists. So, make sure to double-check your bag before leaving home. Bring your A-Game, or at least your "I'm really giving it my best" face! This attitude not only boosts your confidence but also sets a positive tone for the entire Graduation, encouraging your peers to match your enthusiasm and commitment.
Your focus should be on Basic Form #1 (Kee Cho Hyung Il Bu) and several of the Same Side Self-Defences (just what we have been practicing in class). Mastering these fundamental techniques is crucial for building a solid foundation in your martial arts journey. The Basic Form #1 is not just a series of movements; it embodies the principles of balance, precision and rhythm that are essential in all martial arts practices. By honing your skills in this form, you not only improve your physical abilities but also develop mental clarity and focus, which are vital when engaging in sparring.
When it comes to sparring, whatever you do, never spar with students from your own Centre - unless you don't want to improve your sparring skills! This advice is rooted in the idea that sparring with different partners exposes you to a variety of techniques, styles and strategies, which is essential for your growth as a martial artist. Training with peers from other Centres introduces you to new challenges and perspectives, pushing you out of your comfort zone. Engaging with a diverse range of sparring partners not only sharpens your skills but also helps you to learn how to adapt your techniques in response to different opponents. So, embrace the opportunity to spar with others and watch your abilities flourish!
3rd & 2nd Gups (Red Belts) (1.00pm)
We're super excited for an amazing demo by the Red Belts! This event promises to be a spectacular showcase of skill, discipline and dedication as our talented Red Belts take the stage to demonstrate their hard-earned techniques. Their journey to this point has been filled with rigorous training sessions and countless hours of practice, and now it's time for them to shine and exhibit what they have mastered. And hey, don't be surprised if you're asked to show off any Basic Form and the latest Pyung Ahn Hyung - it's your time to shine, everyone! We encourage all participants to embrace this opportunity to display their skills, as it not only highlights individual progress but also fosters a sense of community and support among peers. The Masters will be keeping an eye on you, ensuring that everyone adheres to the standards of excellence we uphold in our practice, providing constructive feedback and encouragement throughout the event.
Additionally, you'll need to show the right number of Same Side Self-Defences. This aspect of the demonstration is crucial, as it showcases your ability to apply defensive techniques in a controlled environment. Mastering these self-defence moves is essential for your development, as they not only enhance your technical skills but also build confidence in your ability to protect yourself in real-life situations. Remember, precision and technique are key, so take this opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of the principles behind each move.
And don't forget your superhero gear - that's your sparring equipment! It's important to come prepared, as your sparring gear is not just a requirement but also a symbol of your readiness to engage in friendly competition. Mix it up by sparring with people from other Centres. This is a fantastic chance to broaden your experience by facing off against different opponents who may have various styles and techniques. After all, you get to face your usual crew every week! This change in partners can provide new challenges and learning opportunities, helping you to adapt and grow as a martial artist. Embrace the spirit of camaraderie and competition, and let’s make this demo an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
1st Gups (Senior Red Belts) (2.00pm)
You get to flaunt all your cool moves, showcasing a variety of techniques that not only enhance your skill set but also demonstrate your progress in martial arts - including a combination of striking, blocking and footwork that are essential for mastering the art. As you practice these forms, you will develop a deeper understanding of the mechanics behind each movement, allowing you to execute them with precision and fluidity.
In addition to the advanced techniques of the 2nd and 3rd Gups, you also get an extra dose of fun by doing the earlier Pyung Ahn Hyung. This foundational set of forms serves as a perfect warm-up and refresher, reinforcing the basics that are crucial for your overall development. The Pyung Ahn Hyung not only helps in refining your stances and transitions but also builds your confidence as you perform these sequences in front of peers and instructors.
Engaging in these Forms allows you to connect with the rich tradition of martial arts, as each movement is steeped in history and purpose. The camaraderie that develops among practitioners during this training is invaluable, creating an environment where you can share tips, motivate each other and celebrate progress together.
Furthermore, the combination of practicing both the current Hyung alongside the earlier Pyung Ahn Hyung fosters a sense of achievement as you witness your own improvement over time. It’s not just about learning the techniques; it’s about embodying the spirit of martial arts, which emphasises discipline, respect and perseverance. This holistic approach to training ensures that you not only become proficient in your techniques but also grow as a martial artist, ready to take on new challenges ahead.
Black Belts (3.00pm)
Black Belts will showcase the previous Hyungs that we have been diligently practicing in our classes, along with the new Hyung that you have been focusing on recently. This is an exciting opportunity for everyone involved, as it allows us to witness the progress and dedication of our students. If you have been attending classes regularly, you will be well aware of the expectations set out for this event! It’s essential to remember one crucial item: DON'T FORGET YOUR SPARRING GEAR. Your sparring gear is not just a requirement; it is a vital part of your preparation and safety during the demonstrations and sparring sessions that will take place.
To participate in the Graduation ceremony, it is imperative that you successfully pass a comprehensive evaluation conducted by your Instructor. This evaluation is designed to assess your mastery of the syllabus that corresponds to your age and skill level. It is not merely a test, but an opportunity for you to demonstrate the hard work and commitment you have invested in your martial arts training. If you can effectively showcase your skills at our Centres, you will find that Graduation will be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Just remember to relax, embrace the moment, and take this day as a valuable chance to learn even more about your practice and yourself! Graduation is not just an endpoint; it is a celebration of your journey and a stepping stone to further growth in your martial arts path. Let’s work together to make this a memorable occasion!
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