I got my shield few days ago and realized that additionally to sword skill point I was earning shield skill points.

Not just that but also I ranked up as a different class "Sentinel" which makes me believe that wielding sword and a shield we become some sort of multi-class sentinel/gladiator.

Moreover Sentinel seems to have its own ability list, including things like Aegis Boom (recover hp while blocking) which seems extremely effective.

So far so good, but does anyone has an idea of how to check this "Sentinel" class current accumulated experience and the necessary points for the next rank?

Also, I haven't tried with any other "single handle" weapon/class (perhaps Thaumaturge being the only option) but do you also get shield skill ups?