Secondary

The Knights in the Classroom offers a selection of workshops and demonstrations customized for secondary grade levels. All sessions are created for the typical 75-minute secondary class duration, but we are happy to customize to meet your needs.

We offer programming for the grade 11 World History curriculum that offers a selection of cross-curriculum connections as well as a host of dramatic arts workshops for all grade levels. Also, through our connected programme, the Canadian Improv Showcase, we have even more programming options for drama.

We utilize a time-of-year pricing policy providing discounts for bookings during our off-peak times, specifically September through December. To inquire or start the booking process, please use the contact form below.

World History

We have a selection of workshops and demonstrations designed to bring the grade 11: World History curriculum to life through interactive and engaging sessions conducted by trained specialists and retired educators.

Battle Ready
This demonstration allows students to see a live, historical martial arts demonstration featuring our instructors in specific reproduction arms and armour and showcasing the teachings of a medieval manuscript written in 1399 C.E. We even bring a copy of the manuscript. We separate fact from fiction in regards to how battle is portrayed in film and television and include time for students to ask questions and explore some of the equipment used.

Fencing 101
This workshop provides students with the chance to suit up and try the amazing sport of Olympic fencing guided by a certified fencing coach. The history of the sport is explored and students are given a full introductory lesson including the basics of footwork, blade technique and strategy. All equipment is provided. A signed waiver for each participant is required. Maximum group size of 20 students per session, based on equipment numbers.

Ancient Sports & Games
This interactive workshop explores the history of sport, its importance in society and allows students to try sports and games as much as 8,000 years old.

The Armoury
This workshop brings accurate reproduction armour, blunted weapons and artifacts for your students to explore in a hands-on capacity. We also include our custom made pillory for a very interesting experience and photo op.

Pirates: Fact vs. Fiction
This workshop separates fact from fiction about pirates and life at sea. It is an interactive exploration of the history of piracy and how the modern day myths were created by film, television, theatre and books.

Stage Combat

Also known as fight choreography, stage combat is an art and highly creative. Done well and it adds to the production value and aids the storytelling and character development. Done poorly and you have potential danger.

That is why the skilled instructors at the Knights in the Classroom now offer stage combat workshops, to allow students to learn from professionals the correct way to choreograph and produce quality fight scenes.

Through their teachings, students will learn how to properly throw a variety of punches, kicks, knees and slaps. They will be taught to make them look believable whether it be on film or live on stage and to do so safely and effectively.

Once students have thoroughly explored hand-to-hand combat, armed combat can be taught. It may require more than one session, but the Knights in the Classroom offer sword combat instruction as well. To ensure the safety of those taking part, simple stage blades will be utilized.

During these workshops safety is the #1 priority. No foolish behaviour will be tolerated. A waiver must be signed for each participant.

Due to the popularity of the Knights in the Classroom programming, the Stage Combat series has been expanded! Going beyond the basics of hand-to-hand and armed combat, sessions are now offered in character and intent as well as fight scene creation.
Prerequisites do apply, please see the information below for details:
• U101 - Unarmed basics of stage combat including falling. No prerequisite.
• U102 - Introducing character elements into unarmed, hand-to-hand combat. Prerequisite: U101
• U103 - How to create a scene using hand-to-hand combat. Prerequisite: U101
• A101 - Introduction to armed (swords) stage combat. All equipment is provided. Prerequisite: U101
• A102 - Using swords to advance character development and plot. Prerequisite: U101, A101
• A103 - How to create a scene using hand-to-hand combat and swords. Prerequisite: U101, A101

See what people are saying about our programming

"The (stage) combat workshop was extremely entertaining. It got all of my students on their feet and working together. It was great to be able to see my grade 9 students apply what they learned to their movement presentations. Excellent workshop!!"
Lindsay Curran Lindsay Collegiate & Vocational Institute, Trillium Lakelands District School Board
"My students and I had a fabulous time learning the skills of stage combat as well as developing our characters to make the scene more authentic!"
Julie Brunet Keswick High School, York Region District School Board
"I was thoroughly impressed with the standards for learning and safety that Knights in the Classroom put into place for a giant group of grade nine students.
They were able to teach an incredible amount of information into their sessions that was practical, pertinent, funny, and useful for all learners."
Sydne deGroot Lindsay Vocational Collegiate Institute, Trillium Lakelands District School Board
"I had a group of 38 drama students and the instructors dealt with them with ease. My students had a wonderful time and felt they received individual attention. I couldn't believe how much they covered in 80 minutes. Finally, the fight scenes my students filmed for me were a testament to how much they had learned.
Thank you!"
Anonymous Teacher Feedback Survey Response
"The students thoroughly enjoyed the stage combat workshop, developing dynamic and dramatic movements to add to their repertoire.
Where else on earth can you punch out your teacher?"
Christine Clark Thornhill Secondary School, York Region District School Board

Booking Inquiry

Please fill out the contact form below to get a customized quote and to start the booking process.