The excitement is building as we approach the start of the 2024/25 British Schools Championships (BSC) season.

The BSC are a highlight in our domestic judo calendar and are set to begin shortly. It promises to deliver thrilling competitions that embody the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance of the sport we all love. As we gear up for these highly anticipated events, it’s important to remember the key dates, entry criteria, and grade requirements that ensure a fair and competitive environment for all participants.

In its ongoing commitment to fostering the growth and development of young judoka, the Schools Working Group have introduced changes to its entry criteria. These modifications are driven by a steadfast dedication to ensuring that the event remains, not only competitive, but also appropriately tailored to the skill and development levels of the participating age groups. By embracing these changes, the British Schools Championships aspire to maintain a spirit of inclusivity, fun, and meaningful engagement with the regional school events, promising a judo experience that resonates with athletes and spectators alike.

The regional school events play a crucial role in preparing young judoka for the British Schools Championships. These regional events serve as developmental milestones, providing athletes with opportunities to hone their skills, gain competition experience, and build confidence. They act as a pathway for developing judoka, gradually guiding participants towards the more competitive and prestigious British Schools Championships. By participating in regional events, athletes can gauge their progress, identify areas for improvement, and strive towards excellence in a supportive and structured environment.

To be eligible to compete at the 2025 British Schools Championships, you must have entered at least one British Schools Regional Championships. If there is no regional championship in your area, you must have entered a minimum of two Level 2 events or above.

Any player who has won a medal at the previous British Pre-Cadet, Cadet, Junior, or Senior Championships will not be eligible to compete (This does not include the British Minors Championships).

The minimum grades to enter both the British Regional Schools and the British Schools Championships 2025 are listed below. Please note that the British Schools Championships has higher minimum grades.

Regional School Championships Age Groups and Grades:

• Academic Years 4 and 5: Born 1st September 2014 – 31st August 2016
  Minimum Grade: 1st Mon (Red Belt)
• Academic Years 6 and 7: Born 1st September 2012 – 31st August 2014
  Minimum Grade: 4th Mon (Yellow Belt)
• Academic Years 8 and 9: Born 1st September 2010 – 31st August 2012
  Minimum Grade: 6th Mon (Yellow Belt)
• Academic Years 10 to 13: Born 1st September 2006 – 31st August 2010
  Minimum Grade: 9th Mon (Orange Belt)

British Schools Championships Age Groups and Gradings:

• Academic Years 6 and 7: Born 1st September 2012 – 31st August 2014
  Minimum Grade: 6th Mon (Yellow Belt)
• Academic Years 8 and 9: Born 1st September 2010 – 31st August 2012
  Minimum Grade: 7th Mon (Orange Belt)
• Academic Years 10 and 11: Born 1st September 2008 – 31st August 2010
  Minimum Grade: 10th Mon (Green Belt)
• Academic Years 12 and 13: Born 1st September 2006 – 31st August 2008
  Minimum Grade: 10th Mon (Green Belt)

The British Schools Championships will be held on 8th and 9th March 2025 with a venue to be confirmed in due course. Full details and outlines for the event will be released before the end of 2024.

Upcoming British Regional Schools Championships:

• Saturday 12^th October 2024: North West
• Saturday 9^th November 2024: London
• Saturday 9^th November 2024: Western
• Sunday 24th November 2024: NHC
• Sunday 19^th January 2025: Southern
• Saturday 25^th January 2025: Wales
• Sunday 2^nd February 2025: Eastern
• Further events are to be added to the Regional School list once events are confirmed. Please keep an eye on this page to keep updated: https://bja.platform81.com/events/our-2024-25-events/regional-british-school-championships/

If you have any queries on the above, please get in touch with the British Judo Events team at: events@britishjudo.org.uk.

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