Are you aged 16–18 and passionate about rugby? Do you want to develop your playing ability while continuing your education? The West Suffolk College Rugby Programme, delivered in partnership with Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club, offers an outstanding opportunity to combine academic study with high-level rugby development.

This full-time course, equivalent to three A Levels, allows students to immerse themselves in both elite rugby and education. Participants will benefit from access to:
Strength and Conditioning delivered by Rugby Development Officer, Ben Cooper
Performance Rugby Coaching and Sports Analysis
Injury Rehabilitation and sports science expertise
Practical experience working alongside professional coaches, analysts, and rehabilitation specialists

All sessions are led by West Suffolk College’s specialist sports staff in collaboration with Bury Rugby Club’s coaching team, including Men’s 1st XV Captain and former Premiership player Ben Cooper. Students will train and learn at the state-of-the-art facilities at The Haberden, developing both their sporting performance and understanding of the wider rugby environment.

At Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club, we are fully committed to the success of this programme. As a community-focused club, we see this partnership as a vital part of our mission to support the growth of rugby in the region and strengthen the player development pathway from youth through to senior rugby. We are determined to make this a year of major progress and expansion for the college programme, ensuring it becomes an integral part of our wider club structure.

An information evening and workshop for prospective students and parents will take place soon, providing an opportunity to meet the coaching team, learn more about the programme, and understand how it can support both academic and sporting ambitions.

We are also pleased to announce that the West Suffolk College Sports Department will join us as part of our Match Day Business Showcase in January 2026, further celebrating this growing partnership.

Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club is proud to take this collaboration to the next level with West Suffolk College. We encourage all aspiring players to learn more about the College’s vision and ambition, and to consider becoming part of this exciting opportunity to advance their rugby and education together.

Enquiry Email: ross.finlay@easterneducationgroup.ac.uk
Rugby Course Link: Level 3 Rugby Performance and Excellence Course
Open Day Link: WSC Open Days