Fencing at Polwhele House
Polwhele House is proud to host a thriving community Fencing Club, recognised as one of the leading British Fencing Association–affiliated clubs in the country. The club offers expert tuition across all three weapons, supported by a team of three highly skilled coaches. Open to all ages, including adults, we welcome both beginners and experienced fencers alike. Whether your child is new to the sport or looking to develop their skills at a higher level, we provide a supportive, structured environment that encourages progression. We are committed to making fencing accessible to all, fostering inclusivity, a strong sense of belonging, and true sportsmanship, while inspiring every member to achieve their personal best.
Session Times
Group Training:
- Monday: 8 a.m. – 8.30 a.m. Footwork Session
- Wednesdays: 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sparring
- Fridays: 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Group Lesson
- Saturday: 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Group Min-Fence Lesson
- Saturday: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Foil Group
- Saturday: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Epee Group
1:1 Lessons:
- Available throughout the week by arrangement. Most of our fencers take between 1 and 2 individual lessons per week.
Earning your Ticket
Once a fencer has completed a series of 1:1 lessons, is completely safe and has secure technique, they are presented with their ‘ticket’.
As a fully-fledged ‘ticket’ holding member of the club you can attend any the sessions, including Fencing Strength and Conditioning, Sparring, and morning Footwork. You will also have the opportunity to represent the club at competitions at least twice each term.
Fencers who are competing regularly usually purchase their own fencing equipment, although this is not needed until you are sure that this is the sport for you. You can read equipment advice here.
How to Join: Email matthew.gale@polwhelehouse.co.uk to arrange a 1:1 taster lesson or to join one of our groups.
Competitions and Achievements
Polwhele Fencing Club runs a busy programme of competitions throughout the year, with full coach support provided at all nominated events. You can view our competition calendar here.
We are proud to have been named ‘Best School Foil Club in Cornwall’ (2024 and 2025), and our members consistently achieve success at county level, including several Cornwall champions. The club has also enjoyed national success, finishing third at the British National Team Championships, and regularly features in the top 10 of the Leon Paul Junior Ranking Series. You can read about our latest news and achievements here.
Our fencers are also encouraged to develop their skills through the British Fencing proficiency awards, with many successfully achieving Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels.
We host the Cornwall Fencing Union’s Schools Foil in October, our own LPJS, Polwhele in July, and our Team Invitational, Points at Polwhele in March.
Discover more
If you would like to find out more about attending Polwhele House School or book a tour, please get in touch with our Admissions team.
