British Taekwondo Supports Dan Grading Preparation at Pilsung Taekwondo

British Taekwondo’s commitment to supporting clubs and members across the country continued this month as Master John Stopforth, 6th Dan and Taekwondo & Education Lead at British Taekwondo, visited the EIS Sheffield Pilsung Taekwondo Club, hosted by Master Simon Turton, 5th Dan

The visit formed part of British Taekwondo’s ongoing programme to engage with clubs and support candidates preparing for Dan Gradings. Master Stopforth was warmly welcomed by numerous Pilsung instructors and higher Dan grades such as Master Craig Wallace, 7th Dan, and also Stephanie Windmill and John Hamilton who are preparing for their 4th and 5th Dan Gradings respectively.

For Master Turton, the visit also came at an important stage in his own Taekwondo journey. Having dedicated many years to training, teaching, and supporting the development of students within the club, he is preparing for his own personal achievement in the near future, with the aim of achieving his 6th Dan.

The opportunity to work alongside British Taekwondo provided valuable insight and guidance as he finalises preparations for what represents a significant milestone in his Taekwondo career.

The session focused on the technical requirements and expectations associated with British Taekwondo Dan Gradings, allowing candidates and instructors to discuss key elements of the grading process, while refining their performance ahead of test day.

Throughout the session, students were taken step‑by‑step through the full grading structure, including Poomsae, step sparring, self-defence and technical application, as well as outlining the assessment criteria for the National Dan Grading.

Speaking of the session, Master Turton said:

“The session was extremely valuable for both myself and our students. Having the opportunity to work through the grading requirements in detail gives everyone a much clearer understanding of how best to prepare for the challenges ahead.

“John’s guidance helped break down the process into manageable steps; this type of session gives the students confidence in their abilities and allows them to ask questions and gain reassurance ahead of their test.

“We’re grateful to British Taekwondo for taking the time to visit the club and support us on our journey. The attendance of a British Taekwondo representative at the club has attracted a number of higher-grade students from our various classes at EIS Sheffield, as well as members from other Pilsung clubs, making for an excellent evening of training.

“The students have come away feeling motivated and better prepared and everyone has gained a greater appreciation of the standards and expectations involved. This will help us to continue the club’s proud tradition of developing Taekwondo practitioners both on and off the mats.”

As with every club visit, the focus was not only on preparing for examination success but also on recognising the dedication, commitment, and lifelong learning that underpin progression through the Dan grades.

Pilsung Taekwondo has built a strong reputation within the British Taekwondo community, providing a welcoming and supportive environment where practitioners of all ages and abilities can develop their skills while embracing the core values of the Martial Art.

The club also took the opportunity to present Master Craig Wallace, recently promoted via the British Taekwondo and Kukkiwon grading syllabus, with an embroidered belt in recognition of his achievement as the first member of Pilsung to attain a grade of 7th Dan, featuring his name, club logo and newly acquired Dan stripes.