Currently the program is restricted to year 7 & 8 boys across 7 secondary schools however, the potential to expand and improve the program is vast. Increasing to 10 secondary schools and 5 primary schools and including girls would enable the program to reach and benefit an expanded audience.
A number of initiatives have been planned to increase impact, enjoyment and overall benefit.
- RFU courses for participants and volunteers – First aid, refereeing, coaching
- A league table comprised of efforts on and off the pitch
- An incentivised pathway to play and stay with local club Southwark Rugby
- One to one mentoring provided to selected pupils
- Trips to watch a Premiership rugby match
- School workshop on nutrition
- More prizes and awards for participants
- Food after each festival
- All-stars team comprised of best players from each school to represent Southwark
- Parental involvement/interest, this is key to the players continuing their development outside of the program
- Photographing and videoing of events
- Structured professional development for coaches
- Free gumshields
- All-year-round program
- Expand so that each school can contribute 2 teams across 3 age groups – Year 7, 8, 9
