Certificate & Certifications
ATDale Certified Instructor List

The purpose of certificates and certifications varies depending upon the art,
teacher, lineage, or country the style comes from.
In the styles I've studied, ranks and certifications weren't easily given out and couldn't be bought.
Though I worked hard for the achievement, it wasn't the rank or certification I was studying for.
My personal certifications were awarded traditionally, at certain times because of my practice.
The Aikido ranks came with a processing fee which, at the time, was very minimal.
I've never had to pay for any other certifications, testing. or apprenticeship.

If you have to pay for a certification or testing, aside from processing fee, is it earned or does the school need more money?
 I've followed the traditions of the old schools, never charging for testing, certificates, or certifications.
The certificates I've handed out over the years were after watching the individual for a period of time practicing
 and noticing how well their skill was developing as well as their interaction with other members. Below
is an explanation of the various certificates I've issued. If the certificate doesn't say 'Teaching' on it
then it's merely a recognition of the individual completing a level of instruction or form.

Form Completion Certification
Four Levels
Basic - Intermediate - Advanced - Instructor
Form Completion certificates are not teaching certificates

 All students successfully completing a form or series, is issued this certificate.
It is an indication to the student that I believed they had learned the particular form
and are able to practice it by themselves correctly, without needing to follow anyone. All the certificates
issued have a dojo membership number, the date, certificate number and my signature.

Basic level
indicates they know the postures and can do the form, ready to work on depth within the form.

Intermediate level
indicates they show a certain smoothness and good structure as they practiced their form.

Advanced level
indicates they know the function and applications of the postures and form.

Instructor's level
signified they understand the principles the form is based upon and are able to help others learn the form.

Though in a data base, I won't be listing those who have received Form Completion Certificates.
Having taught for over 50 years the number is in the thousands.

Teaching Certifications

Four Levels
Basic - Intermediate - Laoshr - Sifu
ATDale Certified Instructor List

Teaching certifications are an entirely different matter.
The requirements for these levels are strictly my own assessment of the individuals skill, talent, and progression in the styles
that I teach in my school. In most cases the individual was considered qualified to teach sessions in my place.
Most times that was the test, however, not everyone is a good teacher for everyone! Also, a skilled stylist isn't necessarily
a good teacher and vice-versa. These certifications indicate the individual has the skill and knowledge to teach.

Basic level
is one who has a good grasp of the basic solo forms, body structure and principles.

Intermediate level
indicates knowing the applications and able to teach partner work.

Laoshr
is a fully qualified instructor/coach able to teach the entire system including weaponry and energy work.

Sifu
is traditionally where the teacher has students that are apprentices and family. Sifu is one who lives the art
and endeavors to expand it's range and limits. In my school this level also means the individual also trains and is
able to teach several different methods I teach, not just one art.

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