Code of conduct

North Armoury Academy – Code of Conduct

At North Armoury Academy, we train in the art and discipline of historical European martial arts (HEMA) with the goal of cultivating skill, respect, and community. This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for all members, instructors, and guests.

By participating in classes, events, or activities, you agree to abide by these principles. They are in place to protect the safety, dignity, and focus of our shared training space.

1. Train with Respect

  • Treat everyone with courtesy, regardless of their identity, experience, skill level, or background.
  • Encourage others. Leave your ego at the door.
  • HEMA is for everyone - harassment, bullying, intimidation, or discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated.

2. Leave Politics at the Door

  • Our training space is not a forum for political, ideological, or religious debate.
  • We welcome people from all walks of life. 
  • Everyone is expected to respect this boundary so that we can maintain a focused and inclusive training environment.

3. Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility

  • Always follow the instructor's guidance. If you’re unsure, ask.
  • Do not escalate force or intensity - this is a martial art, not a fight.
  • If someone says “stop,” you stop. Consent and communication are non-negotiable.
  • No sparring unless explicitly permitted by an instructor.

4. Gear Responsibility

  • Maintain your personal gear and check it before each class.
  • Damaged or unsafe gear is not allowed on the floor.
  • Treat loaner and shared equipment with care. Clean it when appropriate and report any damage.

5. No Romantic Behaviour in Class

  • North Armoury Academy is a training space - not a place to flirt, hit on other students, or start romantic relationships.
  • You are expected to keep all romantic and personal interactions outside of class, even if they seem harmless.
  • If you are already in a relationship with another student or instructor, that's fine - but you both must act professionally and keep it separate from class time.
  • This rule is in place to make sure everyone feels safe, focused, and respected while training.

6. Participation and Conduct

  • Arrive on time and ready to train.
  • Stay engaged and respectful throughout the session.
  • If you’re injured, unwell, or need to step back, let your instructor know before class starts.
  • Disruptive behaviour may result in a warning or removal from class.

7. Reporting and Accountability

  • If you experience or witness behaviour that violates this code, please speak privately to an instructor. We take concerns seriously and will handle them discreetly.
  • Depending on the nature of the violation, consequences may include a warning, class suspension, or removal from the academy.

8. Waiver Requirement

  • All participants must sign a Liability Waiver and Assumption of Risk Agreement before attending any class or event.

9. School Culture

  • We are here to train, improve, and support one another in developing skill, discipline, and respect through martial arts.

Be coachable. Be respectful. Be focused.