Rugby Union Schools: Northampton Boys’ School – the state school at the pinnacle of English rugby

NSB is also an official partner school with Northampton Saints.

This year, they fielded the most players from any school to the Saints Under-18s.

Four first-team academy players will also be offered contracts this year.

“The boys have to manage their time well,” says first-team assistant coach Adam Baker.

“When we get to sixth form and get into the first team, we will try to put them into a program that matches the academy programme, so if they go down that route, they are fully aware and prepared for what that day-to-day life is like.”

However, NSB is not the only state school making an impact.

They beat Campion School from Essex in the semi-final of the Continental Tire School Cup.

It was a compelling contest that came down to the finale, with two state schools playing high-octane rugby in front of an enthusiastic crowd of over a thousand people.

The Rugby Football Union has a network of rugby administrators to try to integrate the game into state schools.

Twenty-two of the best state schools compete in the ACE (Academies, Colleges and Education) League. England internationals George Martin, Joe Hayes and Harry Randall came via this route.

The program is designed to support players who may not attend traditional rugby playing schools, providing daily coaching, competitive preparation and training opportunities alongside academy players.

Northampton Saints have two state school partnerships that play in the ACE League: Moulton College in Northampton and Sigma Sixth Colchester, based at Philip Morant School and College.

“Growing rugby in public schools is a step-by-step process,” Beaumont said.

“This is more than 10 years of hard work. But it can be done.”

“My advice to other schools is to find a way to get more numbers in training, organizing matches.

“Organize a tournament, you won’t need flyers. Make it a habit. Get the kids to play.”

“Rugby needs every state school to push and develop rugby. This is the perfect time. State school rugby can be really special.”

One of NSB’s biggest stars is their 18-year-old captain Jack Lewis, who plays in the back row.

He has been at NSB for the last two years and in the Saints academy since he was 14 years old.

This year he made his debut for Northampton Saints. Now he is preparing to lead his school for the final time in the Twickenham final.

“The National Security Agency taught me how to behave, as it is the closest thing to a professional environment,” he said.

“A lot of people work hard behind the scenes, giving up their time. It has given me a lot as a player and a student.

“I’ve never played at Twickenham, it would be a fantastic achievement if we can lift the cup there. We want to show what NSB stands for.”