Growing Rugby in Schools, One Try at a Time

The Dudley School Sport Partnership host the School Rugby Manager for Dudley. More about the project can be found below.

The Schools Rugby Manager (SRM) programme is a nationwide initiative led by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to grow rugby in schools, embed it into the curriculum, and build strong links with local clubs. It is designed to give more young people the chance to experience rugby, develop skills, and enjoy the game in a safe, inclusive environment.

🏉 Schools Rugby Manager – Bringing Rugby to Every Child

The Schools Rugby Manager programme is all about giving children the chance to enjoy rugby in school.

• More opportunities: Pupils get to try rugby in PE lessons, after‑school clubs, and special festivals.
• Support for schools: Teachers receive training and resources so rugby can continue long after the first session.
• Pathways to clubs: Children who enjoy the game are connected with local rugby clubs to keep playing.
• Inclusive for all: Whether it’s boys, girls, or pupils with additional needs, rugby is adapted so everyone can take part.

By bringing rugby into schools, the programme helps young people discover a sport they love, make new friends, and learn life skills that last well beyond the pitch.

🏉 What the Schools Rugby Manager Programme Does

• Expands access to rugby: SRMs work directly with primary, secondary, and special schools to introduce rugby where it hasn’t traditionally been played.
• Supports teachers and staff: They deliver CPD, training, and resources so schools can confidently run rugby sessions themselves, making the programme sustainable.
• Creates opportunities for pupils: From festivals and competitions to leadership courses, SRMs ensure rugby is more than just a sport—it’s a platform for teamwork, confidence, and personal growth.
• Builds community links: SRMs connect schools with local rugby clubs, helping pupils continue their rugby journey beyond school.

📈 National Impact

• The RFU’s target is to introduce rugby into 5,000 new state schools by 2027, reaching tens of thousands of young people.
• Already, over 900 schools have implemented T1 Rugby, engaging more than 31,000 pupils.

💡 Why It Matters

The Schools Rugby Manager programme is about more than sport—it’s about developing resilience, teamwork, and leadership in young people. By embedding rugby into school life, SRMs are helping pupils discover new passions, build confidence, and connect with their communities.