Rugby
Our Rugby coaches, including experienced and current National League players, support students both on the field and off. All players get the chance to develop their stamina, hone their skills and learn new tactics.
Opportunities to excel
We offer regular competitive opportunities with matches, played on a weekly basis, against other local schools. The focus is very much on providing the right level of challenge to ensure our students love the game and make excellent progress.
Alongside games afternoons students can take part in after School and lunchtime practices, there is also a performance programme where those identified will receive additional position specific and conditioning work.
Format
Michaelmas Term: XV’s Rugby (reduced numbers for younger age groups) with a focus on tactical and team development.
Lent Term: Continued technical development alongside 7’s Rugby for applicable age groups.
Competitions and special events
- Rosslyn Park RFU National 7’s Rugby Competition at U13 and U14.
- RFU National XV Rugby Age-Grade Cup Competitions.
Notable achievements
We are proud to consistently have students selected for the Northampton Saints DPP, and that we are able to offer appropriate support across the different aspects of physical, mental and technical and tactical development.
Connections
We are delighted to continue as the main sponsor of Woodbridge RFU Youth Section. We’re also pleased to confirm our partnership with Northampton Saints Rugby Club for the 2024/25 season; benefitting our School and students in various ways, including exclusive coaching opportunities, visits to Franklin Gardens, matchday support and visits from team players.
Alongside our Head of Rugby Jamie Gage, professional and international level experience and expertise is also offered by Dr Lou Rickard and Carlton Littlechild.
Meet the staff
Tom Harrop
Rugby Coach
Tom began playing Rugby for Alnwick RFC at the age of just five! Continuing to play for them well into adulthood, he also played for and coached his university team and also represented Northumberland in Rugby; Tom also enjoys a variety of sports, including Cricket as well as running.
Holding a Masters degree in Physical Education and Sports Coaching as well as his PGCE, Tom has an RFU Level 2 Coaching qualification, and has taught students of all ages while at RGS Newcastle.
Aiming to develop a love and appreciation of sport and physical activity in the students he teaches, Tom is a firm believer that sport, especially Rugby, encourages resilience and builds fundamental physical and social skills that benefit students now and beyond School.
Spotlight on Rugby
Representing Students
Rugby Round-up – End of 2023
Woodbridge U13 Boys Final Fixture Versus Boundary Oak
Want to see for yourself?
In addition to our open days, we welcome visits from parents and children looking for the right foundation for life ahead. We’ll be happy to show you around and answer any questions you have about our School, staff and the support we offer our students.