Pathways for Self Development at the MCKFA

With the goals of self improvement and the development of our physical skills, mental strength and clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual growth, there are stepping stones of progression available in both systems.

For Kung Fu we have the belt levels – beginner, white, yellow, orange, green, blue, purple, brown, and red. After Green Level 2 and beyond, there is the option to become an Instructor. This involves the student revisiting the lower grades, practising how to teach them, and sitting a grading for all of this material. For Tai Chi we have the hand and weapon forms. Ten of these are set by the HQ, with several others taught by Sifu in our Mudgeeraba Branch. You can be graded by Sifu on any of the Tai Chi forms you learn. After being graded on the 24, the 108, and a weapon form you also have the option to work towards becoming an Instructor. 

For both arts, becoming an Instructor involves more than just knowing the physical skills and being graded on it. You need to become leadership material. This means following all traditions of our arts and practising all aspects of our club culture. From the correct salutation and seniority titles, to putting your juniors practice before your own. From clean and tidy uniforms every lesson to dedicated solo practice and advancement of the arts. Being an Instructor is not easy as we become more selfless, diminish our ego, and spend our time teaching others. Teaching is learning twice so there is great benefit in it. If you want to become a Master/Sifu one day, then you will have to achieve Instructor level first.

Between Blue Level 1 and Brown Level 1, whether you become an Instructor or not, you also have the opportunity to deepen the connection and commitment with your Sifu through a Discipleship. This is a very serious act that should not be taken lightly. From now on at our club there will be an official tea ceremony attended by you, Sifu, and the current disciples. Both parties put their signature to a document that outlines the expectations and actions required from the Sifu and Disciple and the CKFA organisation. We commit ourselves to each other, the club, the advancement of the arts and spreading them further into the community.

To become a Master in Kung Fu, once you reach Brown Level 2 you will revisit everything from Green Level 2 and up. When you are ready you will grade before a panel of Masters that includes your Sifu and your Sigung. To become a Master you need to be a Disciple and an Instructor before grading to Red.

To become a Master of Tai Chi you need to know the 10 forms set by the HQ and have been graded by your Sifu. When you are ready you will grade before a panel of Masters that includes your Sifu and your Sigung. To become a Master you need to be a Disciple and an Instructor before grading.