Curriculum

Early Bird Pricing | Medieval-Themed Camp | Sessions for All Ages

Early Bird Pricing
Medieval-Themed Camp
Sessions for All Ages

Learn About Our Courses

Our courses vary year to year, and the final curriculum is subject to change.  You can meet our Masters and learn about what they are teaching on our YouTube Channel  and on our Parent Tour Video below!

2025 Youth Camp Course Lineup

Age Groups

Weeks 1-3

Campers are divided into age groups and further subdivided into clans.  The age groups are: 

 

  •      Squires - 8 to 10 years old
  •      Paladins - 11 to 13 years old
  •      Stewards - 14 to 16 years old


Week 4

Campers are divided into eight different clans.  Two clans are for campers age 8-10, and the remaining six are for campers age 11-16.

 

Clans

Each Clan has a set list of classes that campers will enjoy Monday through Friday during their camp week.  Clans stick together, so if your camper wants to be placed with a friend, be sure they select the same Clan! 


Weeks 1-3

Class selections are as follows:


Squires (age 8-10)

  • Emerald - Adventuring 101, Archery, Chainmaille, Leatherworking, Swimming, Swordplay
  • Sapphire - Archery, Chainmaille, Living History, Pyrography, Swimming, Swordplay
  • Topaz - Archery, Chivalry, Fae Studies, Swimming, Swordplay, Theatre   


Paladins (age 11-13)

  • Aspen - Archery, Blacksmithing, Chivalry, Medieval Combat, Pyrography, Swimming
  • Cypress - Archery, Blacksmithing, Fae Studies, Medieval Combat, Pyrography, Theatre
  • Juniper - Adventuring 101, Axe Throwing, Chivalry, Leatherworking, Medieval Combat, Pyrography
  • Magnolia - Archery, Axe Throwing, Blacksmithing, Chainmaille, Fae Studies, Sword Fighting
  • Oak - Archery, Fae Studies, Horsemanship, Leatherworking, Pyrography, Swordplay
  • Pine - Adventuring 101, Archery, Chainmaille, Horsemanship, swimming, Swordplay  


Stewards (age 14-16)

  • North - Axe Throwing, Blacksmithing, fae Studies, Horsemanship, Swimming, Sword Fighting
  • South - Adventuring 101, Axe Throwing, Blacksmithing, Chivalry, Living History, Sword Fighting
  • East - Adventuring 101, Archery, Axe Throwing, Leatherworking, Swimming, Sword Fighting
  • West - Archery, Chainmaille, Horsemanship, Leatherworking, Sword Fighting, Theatre


Crusaders (age 16)

New Clan Alert! Our 16-year-old campers can now join the Crusaders Clan and dive into an action-packed, week-long stage combat course! Not only will they learn thrilling combat techniques, but they’ll also have the chance to earn official certification as a stage combat actor—if they pass the certification test. Are you ready to unleash your inner warrior? Join the Crusaders and conquer the stage!


Week 4


Campers age 8-10 may select one of the following groups:

  • Barbarians
    Young Barbarians! The wild calls to you, and it’s time to unleash your strength, courage, and creativity! Join the Barbarian Clan and dive into exciting adventures full of action, discovery, and storytelling. You’ll learn the ways of the warrior with axe throwing, shield battles, and more, while also mastering the ancient art of telling epic tales. Together, we’ll explore untamed lands, face fierce challenges, and unite as a team to overcome every obstacle. Through games, training, and storytelling, you’ll develop both your battle skills and your imagination. The Barbarian Clan welcomes all—are you ready to claim your glory?

  • Merlin's Mages
    Young Apprentices of Merlin's Clan! Step into a world of magic, mystery, and ancient power! Join Merlin’s Mages and unlock the secrets of spellcraft, potion-making, and mystical artifacts. You’ll master the elements, create magical potions, and learn the secret tricks that only magicians know. Together, you’ll embark on enchanting quests, solve magical puzzles, and face challenges only true witches and wizards can overcome. With Merlin as your guide, you’ll hone your skills in both mind and magic, becoming a guardian of Sherwood Forest. Are you ready to harness the power of the arcane and become a legend?

Campers 11-16 may select one of the following groups:

  • Prince John's Knights
    Future Knights of the Realm! It is time to heed the call and see glory and honor! Swordplay, archery, adventuring, and battle await you in Sherwood Forest! Learn what it is to be a knight from chivalry to war games. We will embark on quests, defeat mighty foes, rescue those in distress, and help people in need. Through swordplay we shall hone our skills in different weapon disciplines and learn how to move and communicate as a unit. The world is ours to shape! Will you take up the call?

  • Captain Nox's Mercenaries
    Future Mercenaries! The time has come to answer the call for fame and fortune! Swordplay, archery, epic adventures, and intense battles await you in the rugged lands of Sherwood Forest. Discover what it means to be a mercenary, from mastering combat to strategy and survival. We’ll embark on daring quests, vanquish powerful enemies, rescue those in peril, and take on missions for the highest bidder. Sharpen your skills across multiple weapons, and learn to move and fight as a coordinated unit. The world is yours for the taking! Will you seize the opportunity?

  • Sheriff Magnus's Rangers
    Lords of the bow. Masters of the blade. Warrior-spirits from the forest. Shadow-walkers, Wolf-heads, Raven-spirits; we are the Rangers of Sherwood Forest, the heroes of the woodlands who guard the kingdom by bow and by blade. Kings rely upon us, and tyrants fear us. It is rightly said of a Ranger of Sherwood: "No friend better, no enemy worse." The Rangers of Sherwood Forest summer camp will train archery, axe throwing and fighting, and sword fighting with long and short blades. In addition, adventuring 101 will give our Rangers an opportunity to participate in creative and cooperative role play and character development. Of course, Rangers are more than just the warriors of the woodlands: they are peerless scouts and hidden spies - shadows cast by the forest, whose reach stretches from the highest Royal halls to the fiercest battlefields. Our Ranger class - exclusive to the ranger Clan - will look at tracking, spycraft, and the combat techniques that have made these Warriors respected and feared across the known world. Our Rangers will also have the opportunity to attempt the Forest Road - a Rangers-only event for archery, axe and sword that will require all the skills they've learned through the week. Join the Rangers of Sherwood Forest today, and begin your journey to become a part of the Legend of Sherwood.

  • Madman Maverick's Rogues
    "To go rogue" is to behave erratically or dangerously, especially by disregarding the usual way of doing something. Tricks, lying, and cheating are just tools we use along with knives and stealth. Join the Rogues Guild and learn the skills to influence and infiltrate kingdoms and discreetly change the course of history. We win before the fight begins.

  • Unseelie Fae
    Join us for an immersive journey into the world of fae, where imagination and creativity come to life! In this clan, you'll craft your own fantastical costumes, from fangs and prosthetic scars to enchanting fairy wings, ears, tails, and vibrant face paint. Dive into hands-on projects using clay, paint, and other materials to create cursed items and other mystical artifacts. Along the way, we'll explore rich fae lore, delving into the tales of the fae courts, creatures, and magic. This class is perfect for those who love crafting and storytelling, offering a unique blend of art, mythology, and fantasy.


  • Seelie Fae
    Calling all Faery Changelings! Now is the time to return to Sherwood Forest, shed your human ‘glamor’, and make some mischief! Lady Phoenix will be your guide as you spread your wings — either metaphorical or literal — and reveal the Fae that you have hidden within. We will draw upon your creativity to transform in both actions and appearance with help from Masters in the crafts of Leatherwork, Theatre, and other useful Faery skills. Wardrobe and cosmetic enhancements may also further your metamorphosis. Once your transformation is complete, we will dazzle the humans and join the Unseelie in a little friendly competition!

Classes

Returning & Multi-week Campers

Campers who have taken a course at Sherwood before will be accommodated within their classes and given the chance to develop more in depth skills. Our Masters understand that all of our campers are at different levels of experience and work hard to ensure each camper receives instruction from which they will benefit.

Classes
Our curriculum is ever changing, with courses being added and / or dropped annually in order to provide a variety of options to returning campers and those with us multiple weeks. 

2024 Grown Up Camp Course Lineup

The curriculum for 2024 Grown Up Camp was as follows.  2025 will be published soon. Scroll past the list for descriptions.


  • Adventuring 101
  • Archery
  • Axe and Knife Throwing
  • Blacksmithing
  • Book Binding
  • Buttonmaking
  • Chainmaille
  • Courtly Dancing
  • Fae Studies
  • Fingerloop Braiding
  • Horsemanship
  • Knife Fighting
  • Leatherworking - Belts
  • Leatherworking - Masks
  • Mounted Archery
  • Pyrography
  • Rat Pucking
  • Stitching Techniques of the Royal Court
  • Swordplay
  • Theatre
  • Wood Carving
  • Wine Tasting (requires $20 supplement)

Course Descriptions

The list below includes current classes on offer in 2025 as well as past classes, which are included both for illustrative purposes and because classes sometimes return after a break.

Adventuring 101 (tabletop roleplay)

In Adventuring 101, individuals with varying skills come together to overcome obstacles and come up with creative solutions to problems - including epic quests such as saving villages, defeating monsters, etc. Said actions will be simulated on a tabletop with the use of dice to represent the randomness of the universe.

Archery

Archery will emphasize safety and will be based around a core of medieval technique. History of archery and the different styles from around Europe will be explored. Students will learn a deep history of archery as well as getting hands-on time with the equipment utilized by period archers, including various bows, archery equipment and weapons, etc. In advanced classes, history will also be a huge key - the differences between the eastern and western archery styles will come into play. More complex and challenging games will also be played.

Axe and Knife Throwing

Any fool can throw an axe. To prove this, MadMan Maverick will teach you the basic skills and finer points of edged weapon throwing. Maverick has been throwing blades for almost 30 years and has the scars to prove it. The course will revolve around NMLRA safety standards and will end with a NMLRA rules tournament. 

Blacksmithing

In this class students will be introduced to the tools and methods used to shape steel using a hammer and other tools. We will use tools that have been used since the dawn of the Iron Age to make simple yet beautiful projects to take home and show your family. What you will be able to make depends on how fast you learn and how hard you work, but everybody makes something. Campers with prior experience will be able to work on more advanced techniques and projects.  

Book Binding

By popular demand! Learn to bind hardcover books with Coptic-style binding, a technique used since the second century. Students will take home a fully bound book of their own design. All tools and materials are provided. 

Button Making

Learn how to make two types of historic buttons. Students will learn to make  medieval-style fabric-stuffed buttons, appropriate for rich and poor alike, and 16th-century thread-wrapped buttons, appropriate for high-class clothing. All tools and materials are provided. Students will take home as many buttons as they can make.

Candle Carving

In this class, campers will create their own candles and then learn the techniques of carving them into beautiful designs. 

Chainmaille

Chainmaille was originally used as armor against slashing blows from a sword but has evolved over time into a form of jewelry and adornment making. Campers will learn to open / close rings properly, basic to advanced patterns of linking the rings to form intricate chains or sheets, and finishing techniques to make the chains into wearable jewelry.  

Chivalry

An introduction to the knightly code of Chivalry, built around the 5 core values: Honor, Courage, Strength, Loyalty, and Wisdom. Chivalry class includes lessons on Castle Defense (including everyone’s favorite game “Kill the Castellan”), arms and armor, the basic tenets of horsemanship, a guided walk on King Richard’s own war horses, Joust Games on foot, and a scripted sword fight that becomes a part of the youth camp storyline (and the grown ups might show off during their camp too!).

Costuming

Get into the spirit of Sherwood with a handmade costume piece, or a medieval game token! Campers will have a brief lesson on hand sewing stitches, an overview of machine sewing, and then move on to their own pre-selected projects. Whether it’s a hat, a tabard, a quiver, fairy wings, or a “Foxtail” for throwing, campers are sure to have fun and learn valuable sewing and crafting skills that will serve them well going forward.

Courtly Dancing

Learn several of the popular court dances, including the Half-Hannikin, korobushka and Maltese bransle. If time permits, or if there are enough signups to permit an advanced class, there may be an opportunity to learn the Spangaletta and other dances also.  

Fae Studies

In this class, one will become familiar with the nuances of the supernatural. This includes character development and acting training tailored to otherworldly beings, and the knowledge of the histories, mythology, and folklore behind the faeries, elves, spirits, and other supernatural beings of lore. Instruction will also be given on how to tear off one's mortal skin, to expose whatever scaly, bumpy, glittery, creature dwells beneath, through use of make-up, costumes, and special effects. This knowledge and set of skills will be put to use for the preservation and glory of Sherwood against the forces of evil, by participating in "behind-the-scenes" theatrics and performances for the amusement of their human peers. 

Fingerloop Braiding

Round laces, square laces, flat laces, split laces, in one color or many: finger-loop braiding is a wonderfully versatile technique to make your own cord. Students will learn and take home at least three patterns of finger-loop braids. All tools and materials are provided. 

Horsemanship

Experience the thrill of learning basic horsemanship skills! Campers will learn to catch, groom, and tack up (saddle and bridle) their own noble steed. Lessons will include foundational riding techniques both on the ground and while mounted, culminating in a solo ride around the joust arena. 

Knife Fighting

Knife Fighting with Magnus Bowbreaker - or - How to Make Friends and Influence People, by stabbing them.


Appropriate for beginners through experienced stabbers (that's a technical term), this class will cover armed, unarmed, and knife vs knife techniques.


It's perfectly safe! (Our insurance makes us say that!)

Leatherworking

Campers will have a brief lesson on the history of leathercraft and the differences between different types of leather and their uses. Projects will teach basic / advanced leatherworking techniques: cutting, punching, sewing, shaping, tooling, dying, and finishing. Campers will choose their project to complete when choosing their class. Advanced students will attempt creative design, stamping, tooling, wet molding and dyeing. 

Living History

Explore the life of medieval people! Each day will focus on different aspects of life during the reign of King Richard the Lionheart.  We will cover swordplay, dancing, cooking, medicine and the clothing of the time period in this interactive class.  Every day will be a hands-on experience and you will leave with a tunic designed and made by you!

Mounted Archery

Campers in Mounted Archery will receive instruction in both Horsemanship and asiatic style thumb release. Under your Master's watchful eye, you will be taught the skills that built the empires of the Mongols, the Scythians, and Ottomans!


*This class is only for experienced archers and equestrians.

Pyrography

Students will learn to use wood burners to make medieval themed art and calligraphy by burning their designs into wood. Each student will be able to make a name tag and an art piece  of their choosing with guidance from the master. Pyrography has been around in many forms across many cultures for well over a thousand years as a unique way to make designs without needing paint. It is often characterized by traditional designs with minimal color such as landscapes or fairy tale artwork.


Rat Pucking

"Rat pucking" is a golf-type game played with long staff-like sticks and a "plague rat" or leather rat doll filled with beads. "Puckers, line up!" and shoot their rats toward various course goals and platforms in as few strokes as possible while trying not to plague any bystanders.

Stitching Techniques of the Royal Court

Learn beautiful stitching techniques from as far back as the 15th and 16th centuries. Techniques taught include blackwork, cross stitch, and embroidery. Taught by Reba Scott, spouse of (and superior entity to) our Camp Director, Teach.

Swimming

For Grown Up camp, the pool is open all day and into the evening hours. If grown ups choose an off period they may enjoy a relaxing soak if they wish.

During our Youth Camp, campers who select a clan with Swimming as one of the clan classes will have a chance to take a dip and enjoy splashing in our pool while supervised by a licensed lifeguard. Non-swimmers or those who are not confident in their swimming skills will be provided with floaties so that they may also enjoy the water. 

Swordplay

Swordplay - Kings, Khans, and Cavaliers, Vikings, Pirates, and Princes: the heroes and the villains of history and legend all find common ground in the use and skill of the sword. The story of the sword is the story of mankind: the conquest of empires, the protection of the innocent, and the defense of honor all take place at the point of the sword. In this class, we will explore the basics (and beyond) of the medieval short sword, the Eastern sabre, and the Viking longsword. Attacks, defenses, and paired exercises will help you sharpen your skill with the blade as well as provide you with techniques and tactics to take home and continue your own sword-journey. More advanced students can tackle special topics like hand-ax, the long knife, and a few necessary dirty tricks!  

Theatre

In Theatre campers will first learn how to shed their inhibitions, and speak to each other on stage as we play games and go through improv exercises. Youth campers will then break into groups to create an idea for a play that the class will create throughout the week, and perform for their families on Saturday when they come to pick up their campers. Each group will present their idea for a play; and then all of the campers in the class will vote on their favorite idea. The winning idea will become an original medieval play that you will get to see them perform before you to take them back to the 21st century. Grown Up Campers will perform short skits and lead the rest of the campers in improv games at Sunday night's dinner.


The class will be co-taught by Zane Baker, Sherwood Forest Faire's Entertainment Director, as well as Jonah Green, Sherwood's Cast Director. 

Wine Tasting (Grown Up Camp)

Deepen your knowledge of wine and wine-tasting in this interactive exploration of wine’s history, production and enjoyment. Be prepared to join in the discussion – and the drinking! Age 21+.

Wood Carving (Grown Up Camp)

Learn the basics of carving wood with a knife, and create something to take home. Projects this year will include a mushroom, a knife/letter opener, and possibly a caricature dog for returning students.

Woodworking

Explore the craft of woodworking in the grand forest of Sherwood. Using real tools and process we’ll create fun lasting projects you’ll be show off and want to use.


Build items you’ll be proud to have. 

  - Round Shields 

  - Knight shields

  - Treasure chest

  - Tool box 

  - Beverage/utensil caddies (Grown Up Camp)

  - Wine/mead rack (Grown Up Camp) 


Then finish them off with stain and detailing to meet you individual desires and personalities.