Rugby Development

We recognise that students on our programme are with us for a relatively short period of time and it is unrealistic to claim that any student will emerge from our programme as a ‘complete player.’

Our hope is that the education our students acquire in their time at the College will help them thrive and progress throughout their rugby careers, be that as a professional, semiprofessional, amateur or university rugby player. Our ambition for our graduates is that they will leave as knowledgeable, robust, well-prepared rugby players with the ability to balance study, work, rugby, family and other relationships. Coaching The coaches on the programme are all experienced players and coaches ranging from RFU Level 2 to Level 4. Coaching is player centred and player led, with priority on long-term player development. Coaches continually plan and review their methods of coaching and commit to a schedule of professional development to ensure coaching practices are current, innovative, creative and engaging. Coaches from Saracens Academy also support sessions at the College on a regular basis, as well as other guest coaches on occasion. Rugby Education Students on the rugby programme will undergo regular rugby education through coaching sessions, video analysis and classroom-based rugby lessons. Students will constantly be stretched and educated to become tactically astute rugby players, capable of making good decisions under pressure and adapting to opposition, conditions and

Luke Bouchier

BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport

“I chose to join Oaklands after attending a really inspiring Rugby Open Day, I knew from the moment I met the coaching and physiotherapy staff that Oaklands was my choice. I loved the appeal of the new opportunity of playing a high level of rugby up to four times a week, alongside my studies.” Luke has since been called up to the England U18s squad, which he cites as his biggest achievement so far. “It was relieving to know that my hard work during my time at college had paid off and was a fitting end to the season.

Athletic Development We have specialist strength and conditioning coaches who oversee all athletic development and supports players through a safe and progressive programme of physical development. The emphasis at the start of the programme is on movement, flexibility and injury prevention, before progressing to speed, strength, power and size. Players will receive between one and three gym sessions per week, depending on their level of provision, and will develop an understanding of how to manage their bodies with respect to training, preparation, recovery and injury management.

Lotte Clapp

BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science

Double winning Tyrells Premier 15s Saracens captain Lotte Clapp attended Oaklands College in 2012/13, where she studied a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport & Exercise Sciences. Her path to Test caps featured two appearances in 2015 for England U20 against France and two matches for the England Women National Academy against Canada Women Maple Leafs. She made her World Women’s Sevens Series debut in Las Vegas in March 2017.