If you noticed a ‘buzz’ around school on Monday, it was because we were delighted to welcome author Chris Bradford to talk to Year 7 & 8 students about his books.  As an author, Chris Bradford employs a technique he terms ‘method-writing’ which enables him to add detail and authenticity to his writing as well as giving him an excuse to undergo some exciting training.

For his award-winning Young Samurai series, he trained in iaido (samurai swordsmanship), karate, ninjutsu and earned his black belt in Zen Kyu Shin Taijutsu. Previously he has trained in judo, muay thai and kickboxing.

For his Bodyguard series, Chris embarked on an intensive close protection course to become a qualified professional bodyguard. During his training, he acquired skills in unarmed combat, defensive driving, tactical firearms, threat assessments, surveillance, and even anti-ambush exercises.

And for the Soul trilogy, Chris travelled extensively to experience first-hand the cultures featured in the story – from living with the Shona people in Zimbabwe, to trekking the Inca trail, to meditating in a Buddhist temple amid the mountains of Japan.

Having all read an extract from one book in library studies and undertaken a quiz to see if they had the instincts to make good bodyguards, there was already a lot of anticipation in the room. Chris says  “I write the type of books I’d want to read – books filled with relentless action, believable characters and a plot that twists and turns through the pages!” and that soon became apparent as my introduction to his talk was interrupted by the sound of machine guns and he quickly ‘saved’ me by bundling me out of the room.  Thereafter the session didn’t disappoint as students had to spot the hidden surveillance equipment (hidden in a mock Coca Cola can), were taught unarmed combat skills – thank you to the brave volunteers – and how to work in various bodyguard formations. Whilst entertaining and exciting, Chris did stress that students MUST NOT try these techniques for themselves but if they are interested in learning them, should join a martial arts club.

During the Q&A session, students asked about the swordsmanship training, prompting Chris to produce his genuine Samurai sword which he explained in great detail including the intricate design as well as the gruesome methods used in days gone by to grade swords according to the number of bodies they’d cut through with one swipe! As well as being incredibly interesting and exciting, Chris emphasised the most important aspect is the respect with which a swordsman treats his sword, bowing to it in reverence before putting it safely away.