We can run regular classroom training on site for your institution, or organise classes for you at our own facilities, broken down by age group.
Our age groups run from:
- 7-12 (Youth) – training with plastic blades
- 13-14 (Apprentice)
- 14-16 (Journeyman) – training with nylon blades
- 16-18 (Young Scholar)
- 18+ (Scholar) – training with steel blades
Age groups 14-18
It can be difficult to maintain a student’s focus on dry subjects such as history or literature (drama not so much). Our instructors are experts at combining the physical exercise and coordination of fencing with the history of social credit systems in society and how it influenced our development.
The insights given to us by Shakespeare, Marlowe or Jonson are so much more fascinating when we understand the world in which they lived. Playwright Ben Jonson killed famed actor Gabriel Spenser in a duel just two years after Spenser killed another man (James Feake) with his sword under questionable circumstances. Playwright Kit Marlowe was stabbed to death in what was supposedly a brawl over a bill, but evidence has been unearthed pointing to his engagement in espionage under Elizabeth’s spy master, Sir Francis Walsingham. Shakespeare’s play, Romeo and Juliet, is less teen drama, and more of a social commentary on the endemic duelling culture in London at this time.
As much as fencing in a physical sense, we encourage students to read historic texts and the manuals penned by fencing masters 500 years ago. These texts contain further perspectives on the world at that time, the dangers faced by both civilians and soldiers in those turbulent times, and detailed dedications to the great figures of the day for their patronage. The setting and political landscape of that time was every bit as important.
Age groups 7-14
At this age, our training is focused on being fun and challenging in equal measure. We constantly change the exercises to remain interesting, but ensure that these repeat specific muscular actions to promote strength and flexibility. Fencing increases reaction speed and coordination, teaches children to remain calm under pressure, and has been shown to result in better sleep and a more relaxed nature in general.
By connecting play with history and literature, and respect for teachers and training partners, we aid their longterm academic development. Learning cannot be rushed and people learn in different ways, so it is not a bad thing if some children take a little longer than others. We will invest the necessary time into every student, without pushing them beyond their comfort zone.
The steady improvement in overall fitness and ability allows children to develop a heightened self-image and confidence that translates into everyday life.
All of our instructors have had enhanced background checks and SCUK safeguarding and protecting children certification, as well as membership in UK Coaching.