In my mind the gradings in the UK are good as long as they are an option. The fact that people over here arent exposed to all the atmosphere, culture, history and fight stadiums like they are in Thailand means that we need to fill the educational gap. In Thailand they dont have a grading system but they are born to the sport as part of their heritage, we are not!

I think the gradings are only good for educating the students in the culture, language, ram muays, intricate techniques and then the things like coaching, cornerwork, injuries, nutrition etc. The gradings shouldnt be used like some martial arts systems of 'I am higher than you'. The grading should just be part of a system of making sure that you know all the surrounding areas to teaching to accompany your fighting ability. They can be looked at as progress checks if you like. I will however say that there is no system to beat experience of fighting in Thailand, going on sports injury and nutrition courses and actually being in the gym helping with students and learning all the ways of motivating people. Time is the best thing and hands on experience. Thailand will fill the rest of the gaps for you.