​​Our Mission

The Thistle and Rose Academy aims to educate, inspire, and engage participants by providing comprehensive, hands-on learning experiences. Our mission is to make Renaissance history accessible, interactive, and enjoyable, encouraging participants to explore the past, understand its complexities, and bring it vividly to life. Whether you are an educator seeking to enhance your curriculum or a reenactor eager to refine your craft, the Academy offers a welcoming environment for all to learn and grow.

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Designed for Both Educators and Reenactors

We believe that history is most meaningful when it is experienced, and the Thistle and Rose Academy is designed to cater to both educators and reenactors. Our program is structured to address the needs of two distinct but complementary communities, helping each to deepen their understanding of the Renaissance period and develop the skills to share it with others.

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• Educators' Track: Tailored for teachers, homeschoolers, and educational professionals, this track provides in-depth knowledge on Renaissance history, culture, and daily life. It includes practical tools, resources, and lesson plans to make teaching this era engaging and interactive for students of all ages. Participants will explore topics such as period-specific crafts, historical storytelling, and costuming, with a focus on classroom integration and curriculum development.

• Reenactors' Track: Designed for history enthusiasts, reenactors, and performers, this track focuses on the skills and knowledge necessary to authentically portray characters from the Renaissance. Participants will gain hands-on experience in acting, improvisation, swordsmanship, period crafts, and more, all while learning how to enhance the accuracy and authenticity of their portrayals during reenactments, festivals, and public events.

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Immersive Learning Through Hands-On Experience

The Thistle and Rose Academy goes beyond traditional classroom teaching. We believe in learning by doing, which is why our courses are built around hands-on activities, interactive workshops, and live demonstrations. From practicing Renaissance dance steps to crafting period-appropriate costumes, participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves fully in the sights, sounds, and skills of the era.

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A Program of the Guild of St. Margaret of Scotland

The Guild of St. Margaret of Scotland is a respected organization with a long-standing dedication to preserving historical accuracy and promoting cultural education. As a program of the Guild, The Thistle and Rose Academy benefits from the expertise, resources, and network of historians, artisans, and performers that make up our vibrant community. Our goal is to ensure that the Academy upholds the Guild’s standards of excellence, while providing participants with an unforgettable educational experience.

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