Rugby Returns and Thrives at Hewett Academy!

Rugby is well and truly back at Hewett Academy, and the sport is continuing to grow in both participation and enthusiasm across the school. This term, pupils have been introduced to rugby through their curriculum PE lessons, led by Mr Wilding, who has been teaching the game to multiple groups. His aim has been to help students develop core skills and their knowledge of various laws while sparking a lasting interest in the sport.

To build on this, the academy now offers two after-school rugby clubs - one for Years 7-8 and another for Years 9-11 - open to both boys and girls. The clubs have also benefited from the expertise of Crusaders rugby coach Ben Marshall, who has been supporting sessions throughout the term.

An exciting development since September has been the promotion of a number of taster training sessions at Crusaders Rugby Club. These sessions have strengthened Hewett Academy’s partnership with the club, creating a clear local pathway for young players. This link has not only supported recruitment at Crusaders but has also given Hewett students a valuable direction to continue playing rugby beyond the school setting, encouraging long-term participation in the sport.

Hewett students have already begun showcasing their progress, with teams entered into the U12 and U13 Norfolk Emerging State School Festivals held at Wymondham Rugby Club, where they performed beyond their playing experience. The academy has also taken a leading role in the local schools’ community by organising a series of ‘smash-up’ rugby events, hosted both at Hewett Academy and at Crusaders Rugby Club. These events brought together pupils from Hethersett Academy, Framingham Earl High School, Notre Dame High School, City of Norwich School and Attleborough Academy offering valuable competitive experiences, under a supportive sporting atmosphere.

This renewed commitment to rugby has been backed by the purchase of a brand-new rugby kit, funded through the PE budget, ensuring pupils can represent the school with pride for years to come.

To round off an exciting year, a trip has been booked for selected students to watch Leicester Tigers take on Northampton Saints in a ‘local derby’ Gallagher Premiership fixture in May - a brilliant opportunity for pupils to experience top-level rugby and deepen their passion for the game.

Rugby at Hewett Academy is thriving, and we can’t wait to see the sport continue to grow!