Grading is a way of checking both student progress and that we are doing our job properly.  It is held in the penultimate week each school semester.  That being said, instructors may grade students at their discretion.
For higher-graded students, more time is required to cover and train in the content at these levels, particularly if training once/week.  In effect, this means for the mid-levels and above it will require up to two or more terms to allow for practising of increasingly complex skills.
It is mandatory for all students to wear full uniform (School shirt, shorts and belt), and for all students to present their handbook to an instructor for notes and marking.  Students 8 years and above must also bring their sparring equipment, if required for their grade level.