Bedford School has announced the latest in a growing collection of professional relationships, as a new ‘elite community partnership’ with Northampton Saints begins, allowing Bedford School students the opportunity to work with the coaching staff of rugby’s English champions.
The new partnership will, “significantly enhance the school’s rugby programme, bringing a wealth of expertise and opportunities to the students, fostering their development both on and off the field”, say Bedford School.
Former Bedford School student, George Furbank was announced as the Northampton Saints captain this season, and he, along with fellow Alumni, Fraser Dingwall are both capped by England.
In the past year, both Jonny Weimann and Aiden Ainsworth-Cave have both been awarded professional contracts at Franklin’s Gardens after impressing at Bedford School and in the Saints academy.
Read: Two Bedford School students sign first professional rugby contracts for Northampton Saints
This partnership will only extend the relationship that already exists between the school and one of the nation’s best.
Ben Lawrence, Community Manager at Northampton Saints, commented, “We are excited to work with Bedford School and support the development of young rugby talent.
“This partnership aligns with our commitment to nurturing the next generation of rugby players and promoting the sport within our community.”
As part of the agreement, the school will have reserved access to three community rugby coaches from the club, who will lead weekly staff training sessions aimed at both enhancing the quality of rugby training delivered by the school’s coaches as well as equipping them with the latest techniques.
Northampton Saints players will also make regular appearances at Bedford School, offering guidance and inspiring the students to achieve their best both on and off the field.
Additionally, boys will have the opportunity to watch high-level rugby and gain inspiration with free entry to the Northampton Saints 7s Series.
Mr Ayden Duffy, Assistant Head at Bedford School, explained, “We are incredibly excited about this collaboration with Northampton Saints Rugby Club.
“The opportunities it presents for our boys are unparalleled, and we are confident that this will not only enhance their rugby skills but also instil values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. We look forward to seeing them thrive both on and off the field.”
This follows the news in July that Bedford School had entered into a similar agreement with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, to help an already burgeoning talent pool of cricketers at the school develop into the professional arena.
Read: Bedford School announce new partnership with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club
Local community benefit
It won’t just be the students of Bedford School who will benefit.
Northampton Saints already have a large community presence, and that will be extended to the playing fields of Bedford, with anyone able to sign up to specially arranged training camps that will allow boys and girls to discover rugby.
The next Northampton Saints Rugby camp will be held at Bedford School on Monday 28 October and is open to all boys and girls aged 6 to 16 years.
