School of Rugby

Following the success of the first three years of the programme, Irvine Royal Academy is delighted to continue enhancing the excellent opportunities we offer in Physical Education, physical activity, and sport through our School of Rugby programme. The programme currently has around 95 pupils regularly participating in weekly training sessions, fixtures, and termly festivals.

The School of Rugby not only helps young people develop their rugby skills, fitness, and overall health and wellbeing, but also supports the development of important emotional, mental, and social skills through well-structured and targeted coaching sessions. Over the past three years, we have seen significant growth in our participants, not only in their practical abilities and PE performance, but also in their behaviour, attendance, confidence, and engagement in learning.

In S1 and S2, pupils receive two School of Rugby sessions per week. These sessions remain fixed until Christmas, and we expect pupils to attend all scheduled sessions. After Christmas, periods will rotate to ensure that pupils do not consistently miss the same classes throughout the year. If any classwork is missed, pupils are encouraged to speak with their class teachers to ensure they catch up on any important learning.

The S1–S2 pathway provides pupils with the opportunity to progress into the S3 School of Rugby programme, where they will participate in three periods per week and work towards a Level 5 qualification in Developing Performance. Pupils can then continue into the S4 programme, where they will have the opportunity to achieve a Level 5 NPA Sports Coaching Qualification.

Pupils involved in the School of Rugby are also encouraged to join their local rugby club, Irvine RFC, where they can take part in additional training and competitive matches to further develop their skills and enjoyment of the sport.

The School of Rugby is open to applications from all pupils, both male and female, who are interested in joining or continuing within the pathway. If your son or daughter would like to be considered for the programme, please complete the application form using the link below  https://forms.gle/iWqEqfPseB2sbrW49

We look forward to welcoming the next group of pupils into the School of Rugby programme.

If you have any questions regarding the School of Rugby, please contact myself on 01294 278756 or gw15couperrory@ea.n-ayrshire.sch.uk

Your Sincerely,

Rory Couper
Teacher of Physical Education – School of Rugby Lead