Course description
We provide the support for students to pursue their rugby ambitions whilst studying their preferred academic pathway, whether that be A levels, BTEC or other vocational courses. Students will be able to compete with their home club as well as access to:
- 12hrs + of dedicated contact time each week with our rugby staff.
- Outstanding professional coaches, Strength and Conditioning staff and medical support.
- Pastoral support and guidance.
- Quality playing and training facilities at our training ground, including artificial and grass pitches, as well as state of the art Strength & Conditioning facilities.
- The opportunity to study an additional sporting qualification- Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE), for selected students.
Please use the Apply Now function to register your interest. This programme is highly competitive, and you must attend an assessment day as part of the application process. Once you have applied for the course, we will be in touch with further information regarding the assessment days.
The assessment days will be taking place on:
Saturday 4 March 2023, 9.30-12.30
Saturday 1 April 2023, 9.30-12.30
Please note:
Students must be aged between 16–18 at the time of studying.
Players will be asked to attend both assessment days where possible.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
This programme is for students aged 16–18 only.
Your application will be judged on your abilities as a rugby player, as well as your academic merits.
As a rugby player, we will be assessing your experience, your rugby CV and performances in trials. Academically, you should expect to need good grades overall, with specific requirements dependent on the subject you wish to study.
Training Course Content
This programme allows players to study a choice of A Levels at City of Oxford College.
We give young players the structured environment, and support, in order to maximise their potential both on the pitch, and in the classroom.
Others will progress into Higher Education and we have extensive links with top rugby playing Universities so that players can harness those opportunities. This will ensure that everyone graduating from our programme will have the opportunity to continue their rugby development further at the right level for them.
Course delivery details
Academic Programme
Players can choose to study a BTEC National Diploma in Sport, Sports and Exercise Science, Business or other vocational area, or a choice of A Levels at City of Oxford College. Alongside your chosen academic path, a selected number of student athletes will study towards a Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE). This is an RFU endorsed rugby programme for 16-18-year-olds based at the England Regional Academies.
Rugby Programme
You will have a practical rugby schedule in addition to your academic lessons and will be supported on modules designed by sports professionals. Each module will develop a specific facet of your game, including your ability to read and interpret the game around you, as well as the correct mental and physical preparation and recovery.
As part of the squad, your typical week will include:
- Timetabled academic lessons
- Over 12hrs of rugby contact time throughout the week
- Strength and conditioning and prehab sessions
- Units/Team Rugby and analysis sessions
- Additional sessions with the Centre of Excellence
You will be able to continue to compete with your respective clubs and counties on weekends. Although we understand your passion and focus may be on the player development programme, you are expected to place your academic studies as your first priority.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Oxford is available at our training base at Harcourt Hill. If you would like more information on the accommodation options, please contact the team directly.
Activate Learning
Activate Learning is a forward-thinking education group that aims for far-reaching, progressive change and impact through learning. We work with learners as individuals, helping them make the choice of course and career pathway that’s right for them. Our mission is to provide work-ready talent for business, and...