Safety and Rules
We take safety very seriously at Black Boar, and to promote a safe and enjoyable environment for all, everyone must respect and follow our rules and all directions given by our instructors / provosts. In addition, all students must take responsibility for their own actions and behaviour, and conduct themselves in a responsible manner at all times.
Disclaimer
Whilst Black Boar mandates the use of safety equipment, only fences with appropriate training weapons, and requires all students to follow the directions of our instructors / provosts, it must be noted that historical fencing, as with many types of sports activities, carries inherent risks. Black Boar mitigates these risks as far as reasonably possible, but anyone who chooses to participate in historical fencing at our school does so on the understanding that they voluntarily accept these risks and that they may incur injuries.
Historical fencing is an interactive physical activity, focused on defence and offence with weaponry. Students must therefore assess and understand their own level of health, fitness, risk tolerance and comfort in order to make an informed decision about the activity’s suitability in relation to their personal circumstances.
Inclusivity, Dignity and Respect
Black Boar welcomes all students in accordance with the principles set out in anti-discrimination law. No discriminatory behaviour on the grounds of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, disability or other protected characteristics will be tolerated. All students are required to treat others with dignity and respect at all times.
Age Restrictions
You must be aged 18 years or over to participate in historical fencing at Black Boar. We reserve the right to request proof of age. Anyone under the age of 18 will not be allowed to attend and / or take part in classes or events, without exception.
Black Boar Rules
Students must treat each other and the instructor / provost with respect at all times. Civil behaviour is a condition of continued membership at Black Boar
Students must always make the welfare and safety of others their primary concern
Students must always follow the directions of the instructor / provost
When the instructor / provost wishes to address the class, all other conversations must end
Students must not improvise or move on to the ‘next thing’ during lessons until directed to do so by the instructor / provost
Sharp weapons must never be used
All training weapons must be blunt and in good working order
Students must always ask before borrowing equipment and return it in the same condition
On hearing the word “halt” all swordplay must stop instantly
Students must never engage in free play unless they have been permitted to do so under the direct supervision of an attending instructor, provost or other approved and insured person
Students must not teach other students, during or outwith Black Boar classes, unless permitted to do so by the instructor / provost
All attacks must be made responsibly and with control, and never in a way that endangers the recipient
Overly aggressive, bullying and / or anti-social behaviour is strictly forbidden
Masks, along with other safety equipment suitable for the weapon style being practiced, must always be worn when engaging in swordplay
Free play areas must always be kept tidy and free from obstructions
Black Boar does not accept any responsibility for the loss, theft or damage of personal property
First Aid
All of our instructors are first aid trained, so in the unlikely event of minor accidents or injuries, they will be on hand to assist.
Misconduct
Any students who breach the Black Boar rules, disobey the guidance of instructors / provosts, conduct themselves disrespectfully and / or unsafely, or who put the welfare and safety of other students at risk will, at Black Boar’s sole discretion, be immediately removed from class. Such students may also be banned from attending future classes and events and / or have their membership cancelled with no refund given.