Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Fencing Club in Edinburgh
Established in 1970, Edinburgh Fencing Club has been a cornerstone of fencing excellence in Scotland for over five decades. Our club was founded following the British Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, with a legacy of nurturing talent that has represented Scotland and Great Britain at World Championships and Olympic Games. We offer structured training programs for all three fencing disciplinesfoil, epee, and sabrecatering to participants from primary school age through to veteran competitors. Our coaching team comprises internationally qualified professionals, including former Olympians and Commonwealth medallists, who bring decades of competitive and instructional experience. We maintain rigorous safety standards with certified instructors holding PVG, First Aid, and Safeguarding qualifications.The club operates at Meadowbank Sports Centre, providing accessible facilities for open fencing sessions, youth classes, and private coaching. Our committee-driven structure ensures member-focused governance, supported by volunteers who contribute to event organisation, coaching, and administrative functions. We pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming environment where technical skill development and competitive preparation coexist with recreational participation. Our alumni include multiple national champions and international representatives, reflecting our commitment to high-performance pathways. Regular communication through newsletters and social media keeps members informed about training schedules, competition opportunities, and club news.
Services
Fencing Classes
Youth Training
Private Coaching
Competition Preparation
Open Sessions
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- We offer internationally qualified coaches with Olympic and Commonwealth Games experience
- Our structured programs cater to all three fencing disciplines from beginner to elite level
- We provide child-safe environments with PVG-certified instructors and safeguarding policies
- Our alumni include multiple national and international championship medallists
- We maintain strong connections with Scottish and British fencing development pathways
Associations and certifications
- British Fencing
What people say
Expert coaching
Great for beginners
Competitive pathways
Child-friendly environment
Experienced instructors
Services
Fencing Classes
Structured group instruction in all three fencing disciplines for ages 7+. Sessions include technical drills, footwork, and sparring. Beginners use plastic equipment before progressing to metal weapons. Coaches adapt content for mixed-ability groups.
Youth Training
Specialised programs for children aged 7-18. Includes foil and epee classes with experienced coaches. Curriculum develops fundamental skills through games, footwork, and individualised training. Pathway to competitive fencing available.
Private Coaching
Personalised instruction with internationally qualified coaches. Available for foil, epee, and sabre. Tailored sessions focus on technical improvement, competition preparation, or specific skill development. Coaches include former Olympians and Commonwealth medallists.
Competition Preparation
Advanced training for competitive fencers. Includes match analysis, tactical development, and competition strategy. Coaches advise on tournament selection and provide performance feedback. Preparation for national and international events.
Open Sessions
Drop-in sparring opportunities for experienced fencers. Available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Participants bring own equipment or borrow club gear. Sessions encourage peer learning and practical application of techniques in a supervised environment.
People
Andy Alderman
Coach
Former international fencer with Level 5 British Academy of Fencing qualifications. Coached Scottish and British champions, Commonwealth medallists, and GB representatives across multiple age groups. Specialises in all three weapons.
Naomi Farmer
Youth Coach
25+ years fencing experience. Level 3 sabre coach with Open University sports qualification. Uses TGFU approach to make training enjoyable. Leads Scottish Youth Pathways Squad sabre coaching.
Don McKenzie
Performance Coach
Olympic and Commonwealth Games medalist. International Fencing Masters Diploma holder. Specialises in women's foil development. Current GB Athlete Development Programme Coach and Edinburgh University Head of Performance.
Gavin McMenemy
Head Coach
25-year coaching veteran. Multi-award winner including Scottish Fencing Crosnier Quaich. Coaches national and international medallists. Podcast host and French Fencing Federation commentator. Specialises in epee and youth development.
Paul Neil-MacLachlan
Epee Specialist
International Masters Diploma holder. Former Scottish Internationalist. Coached World Championship participants and Commonwealth medallists. President of EFC and Scottish Fencing coach educator.
Questions
What age can children start fencing?
Children can begin plastic fencing at age 7. Younger children with prior experience may join with coach approval.
Do I need my own equipment?
Beginners receive equipment. Members should eventually purchase their own gear for regular participation.
Are coaches qualified?
All coaches hold British Fencing qualifications and have PVG, First Aid, and Safeguarding certifications.
How do I join competitions?
Coaches assess readiness and recommend suitable local tournaments. Additional training may be advised.
What membership benefits exist?
Membership grants access to youth classes, discounted private lessons, and competition entry support.
Where are sessions held?
All sessions take place at Meadowbank Sports Centre, Edinburgh, with dedicated fencing facilities.
