Greetings from your Coracle Herald! I am the deputy responsible for fostering and encouraging interest in the heraldic arts through education. Part of my job is to make sure that class opportunities are being offered for anyone who would like to learn about heraldry in all of its many facets. This website was developed partially to help ensure that happens.
There are three 'categories' of classes that we offer.
Rank advancement classes. These consist of the warranting classes, the pursuivant classes, and the youth heraldry classes. They are designed to impart very specific information so that a person will have the tools needed to act as a herald in a variety of circumstances.
Heraldic knowledge classes. Heraldry is a vast topic, with lots of different areas of interest. The goal of these classes is to provide more detailed information about some of the basic topics, as well as offer knowledge about more advanced or more specific topics.
Classes for the non-herald. While there are plenty of people who enjoy learning the intricacies of heraldry, there are lots who aren't that interested. Since heraldry is such an integral part of our Society, however, there are often topics that the general populace needs or wants to learn about. These classes are designed for those individuals, focusing on subjects that are relevant to incorporating heraldry into your everyday experience.
If you are a member of the college, or would like to be, these classes are what you need in order to advance.
Warranting Classes. These are the first classes that anyone interested in pursuing heraldry should take. They are also strongly recommended for anyone who has taken the office of a local herald. They provide the knowledge necessary to be a successful local herald, as well as a general foundation of information to build upon.
Pursuivant Classes. This series of classes provide the information needed to successfully complete all of the pursuivant quizzes. Once all 7 classes and quizzes have been passed, you will advance to the rank of pursuivant (assuming you have already obtained the rank of herald). This series teaches the base knowledge necessary regarding armory, submissions, voice, and precedence to be a well-rounded herald able to serve wherever needed.
Youth Herald Classes. These classes are a new addition to our curriculum. The first two junior ranks are achieved by taking these classes. At this time, they are only being offered in person at events.
Heraldry is an important part of everyone's experience in our Society. Whether you are wanting to register your name and device, learn to put armory on scrolls, create banners and decorations for your encampment, or just add some flair to your kit, these classes are where you can find that information.
Heraldry is such a large subject that there are endless opportunities to learn new things. Continuing to learn and increase your knowledge is an important part of being an active herald. Taking additional classes (and teaching them!) counts towards becoming a pursuivant-at-arms as well!