Grades for junior players are known as "Mon" grades (from the Japanese word meaning "gate" or "entry").

• Red - 1st to 3rd Mon
• Yellow - 4th to 6th Mon
• Orange – 7th to 9th Mon
• Green – 10th to 12th Mon
• Blue – 13th to 15th Mon
• Brown – 16th to 18th Mon

Players being examined for the first six grades are assessed by their coach in their club. The players must demonstrate skill in performing a variety of judo throws and holds, and are also tested on their knowledge of basic judo terminology such as referee's signals and calls.

Players transferring from the under 8s Kano Club into the Mon grading system may, at the discretion of their coach, skip the 1st Mon grade and be graded straight to 2nd Mon, depending on their skill and experience. 

1. Players must first be assessed by their coach on various theory elements, comprising practical demonstrations of throws and holds, and a knowledge of judo rules and terminology.
2. Once the theory has been passed players must attend a competitive grading event where they are pitted in contests against other players of roughly similar age, weight and grade. Winning at least one of these contests normally results in awarding the player a higher grade.

At the age of 16, junior players transfer to the senior Kyu and Dan grading scheme.

A comprehensive summary of the Mon grading syllabus is available on this site to club members.