June 9, 2026
Growing Confidence Through Schools and Community Rugby
More than 380 rugby sessions, eight schools engaged and dozens of new club members recruited. Those are just some of the results being delivered through the partnership between the Harrison Foundation, All Stars Sports and Ponteland Rugby Club.
Launched last year, the programme was created to introduce more young people to rugby, strengthen links between local schools and community sport, and create clear pathways for continued participation beyond the school day.
Twelve months on, the impact is becoming increasingly clear. Working together with Ponteland Rugby Club and All Stars Sports, we have delivered rugby coaching across schools including Ponteland Academy, Walbottle Academy, Kenton School, Darras Hall Primary School, Ponteland Primary School, Belsay First School, Richard Coates Primary School and Hadrian School.
The programme has been delivered through curriculum sessions, after-school clubs, festivals and holiday camps, ensuring that children and young people have regular opportunities to experience rugby in a fun, structured and inclusive environment.
Over the past season alone, 383 rugby sessions have been delivered across participating schools. This included 194 sessions for Year 7-9 boys, 135 sessions for Year 7-9 girls and 54 sessions for primary-aged pupils.
One area of particular success has been girls’ rugby. A recent touch rugby festival attracted 80 girls from local schools, helping to increase participation and introduce more young people to the sport. Several participants have since gone on to join Ponteland Rugby Club, further strengthening the pathway from school sport into community participation.
The programme is also having a positive impact within schools themselves. Teachers have increasingly recognised the value rugby can bring, both within physical education and more broadly. Schools have requested additional delivery and engagement opportunities, while Darras Hall Primary School has invited the programme team to play a role in its major summer community event following the success of rugby sessions delivered throughout the year.
The feedback from pupils and schools has been equally encouraging. One participant said: “I loved rugby because everyone got a chance to join in and try something new.” Another added: “The sessions made me feel more confident, and I learned how important teamwork is.”
School staff have also highlighted the wider benefits, noting improvements in confidence, teamwork, resilience and engagement among pupils taking part in the programme.
Harrison Foundation trustee, Daniel Harrison MBE, said: “When we launched this partnership, the objective was to create more opportunities for young people to take part in sport and to strengthen the link between schools and community rugby.
“The results we are now seeing demonstrate what can be achieved when schools, clubs and delivery partners work together. Hundreds of young people have been introduced to rugby, participation is growing and more children are continuing their journey through Ponteland Rugby Club.”
By combining high-quality coaching with strong school relationships and clear progression routes, the programme is helping more young people become active, develop new skills and enjoy the benefits that team sport can provide.