Practicing HEMA internationally since 2010, Fran can help you discover more about your fencing, develop your skills as a leader, and set you and your club up for future success.
Francesca Lacuata is a senior instructor at The School of the Sword’s Godalming chapter, which she founded in 2015 having studied Bolognese swordplay and rapier since 2010. She has a further interest and experience in renaissance dagger-fighting, Bartitsu and longsword. Fran has instructed at high-profile events in Britain, Europe and the US; and has placed in and won over thirty international competitions.
As a writer, Fran has demonstrated, panelled and presented on historical fencing and real-world violence at lectures and writers’ conventions, including Fantasycon and at the Wallace Collection.
Fran has organised over 30 international events starting with the International Rapier Seminar 2016. She co-founded Waterloo Sparring Group in 2012, which facilitates inter-group sparring from clubs all over the south of England and beyond. Fran was a founder of the Wessex League series of events as well as The English Sidesword Open and the Albion Cup.
By The Sword is an event for under-represented genders founded by Fran, and is also the title of her podcast series where she interviews members of the global sword community and explores under represented topics. Fran was also a founding member of Esfinges, a worldwide organisation for women in HEMA.
Services
Book me for an event (I come to you)
My day rate is £150, plus travel, accommodation and expenses. A weekend is £250. Everything is open to negotiation, and a longer visit can be discounted. A deposit of 50% is required to secure my time.
Intensive course – group and 121 (you come to me)
Visit me in Surrey, UK, to level up your fencing. We will work together intensively to meet your fencing needs and achieve the training outcomes you’ve been striving for.
I can spend social time with you in the evenings to discuss any and all of your goals and practices.
Bed and board nearby will be organised by you, which I am happy to advise on. I am 45 minutes by train from central London. Delighted to work with groups of up to six people. A 50% deposit is required to secure my time.
One day £150
Weekend £250
Week (5 days) £650
Instructor training
Coaching and instruction in historical fencing is a skill that must be honed over time. Get the benefit of experienced guidance and avoid the pitfalls by investing in instructor training that will benefit all your members for years to come.
Club startup course
Fencing is a single skill, learning and teaching are separate skills again, but the founding and leadership of a HEMA club? That requires a lot of time, patience, plus emotional and financial investment. However it can be the most fulfilling and rewarding role of any fencing career.
I can work with you to shape the future, foundations and practices of your club, so that you create a strong community that strives for excellence, safety and fulfilment.
Booking with me is easy
Questions and requests
I am very happy to discuss any requirements or queries you might have before booking with me. Please use the contact form.
By the Sword 