The passing on of knowledge and skills is one of the most important aspects in any society. How that is done varies dramatically from culture to culture. This could be formal schooling, apprenticeships, family lore, oral history, religious study, military training, or any combination of all these things.

In Shildaria, children typically receive some formal schooling starting at around the age 5. They typically learn discipline, reading (both words and maps), very basic math (such as measurements and arithmetic), history, the laws, and religion. The discipline aspect of the schooling is almost militaristic, including marching, breaking into squads to accomplish goals, and setting up chains of command.

Once a child is 11, they begin their apprenticeship. Although what the child does is nominally their choice, their parents are typically involved in making sure that whatever it is will be possible. After all, just because they want to be a blacksmith doesn’t mean that there are any in town that can take on an apprentice. Apprenticeships last until they are 18. Depending on the trade or profession, they may simply be done or there may be some sort of test to show that they are proficient enough to be called a journeyman. Some skills even have a master’s level, where a journeyman must prove that they have sufficient skill to call themselves a master. This is typical for highly complex trades, such as carpentry, smithing, masonry, grooming (taking care of horses), and the like.

All children have military training during their primary schooling. The bow is emphasized, with training and drills every day they are in school. Melee weapons are also taught, but only to the point of proficiency for most of the children. Those with talent with weapons, leadership skills, or who are particularly good at discipline are also given training to ride horses.

As with all the other professions, the military can be chosen as an apprenticeship. This involves intensive training in weaponry, armor, maintaining equipment, equestrian, structures of command, tactics, and the like. Unlike other apprenticeships, those who join the military move out of their homes and into barracks.

Religious training is typically provided by the priests at the local church. In some cases, the apprentice priest is sent to a larger city or even to Myos for training. This would be particularly true if the apprentice wants to be trained in the service of a god that isn’t represented in their particular area, which isn’t uncommon in the smaller towns and villages.

Next week, I’ll be talking about my writing and give some updates. I’ll see you next Thursday!