Most HEMA clubs have some form of ranking system for their members. These are usually based on historic titles as used by the medieval fencing schools. At Basingstoke HEMA we are using a combination of Rank and Grading as you may be familiar with in Eastern Martial Arts.
The Rank system is a traditional method of showing how much a fencer has learnt, traditionally there were only a few ranks and progression could only be achieved after many years of study and practice. We think it is good to maintain this tradition so we have three ranks: Novice, Scholar and Journeyman
Novice is rank that you enter the club at and you will learn basics of fencing in this rank.
Scholar, a student will become eligible for this rank after a period of 6 months to 1 year of HEMA practice. You will become well versed in at least your main sword of choice and possibly study or practice with additional weapons too.
Journeyman is the highest rank within the club. You will be eligible for the Journeyman rank after a period of 4 years of HEMA practice. You should be confident in your knowledge and practice of fencing with at least one weapon. You will be expected to have fenced against members of other clubs and have participated in competitions.
In between these ranks there will be gradings in a similar style to eastern martial arts which shows your progression of smaller steps along your HEMA journey.
These will be designated by coloured bands to be worn on the jacket arm:
White
White & Green
White, Green, Yellow & Brown
Blue
Orange
Red & Black
Anyone joining the club with prior HEMA experience will be assessed for their starting rank. Grading sessions will take place once there are enough people both eligible to progress and deemed ready for their next grade.
Club Patch and Grading Band
Here you can see the club patch clearly displayed with the grading band worn at the elbow.
