men’s RUGBY Academy.

If you live, breathe and sleep rugby, then we’re the college for you.

You can study any of our full time school leaver programmes in any subject, including Sport and A Levels, alongside becoming a member of our Rugby Academy.

You’ll develop the knowledge and expertise you need for a career or to move on to university or an apprenticeship and gain a nationally recognised qualification whilst training and playing each week to develop your rugby skills.

What do we offer in our Rugby Academy?

3 Pitch sessions a week (4.5hrs)
Strength and Conditioning Programme
Team and Individual Video Analysis
1-2-1 and Small Group Skill Sessions
Individual Development Plans
Access to Physiotherapy
Competitive Local and National Fixtures

Roll of honour

Will McCubbin – Scottish Exiles, Northumberland U18’s, Morpeth RFC
Matthew Jenkinson – Scottish Exiles, Northumberland U18’s and U20’s, Blaydon RFC, Northumbria Uni 1st team
Robbie Forbes – England U18’s, Bristol, Gloucester, Hartpury University 1st team, Ryton RFC Durham County U18’s, Northumbria University 1st Team
Larry Mew – Newcastle Falcons Academy, North of England, Northumberland County U18’s and U20’s, Ponteland RFC
Elliott Beattie – Newcastle Falcons Academy, Hartpury University, Blaydon RFC, Durham County U18’s and U20’s

“When looking at sixth forms and other colleges in my last year of school, no one else could offer what Gateshead College is able to; I can play the sport I love, whilst working towards a qualification.”

– April Ishida – Ryton RUFC, Durham County RFU, DMP Durham Sharks Centre of Excellence, England U18’s

MEET YOUR COACH.

Michael Van Vuuren

Our Rugby Academy Coach, Michael brings years of experience.

After representing South Africa under 20 at the 2011 World Cup, he went on to a 13 year career as a pro rugby player.

His background includes playing in prestigious leagues such as the French Top 14, English Premiership URC and Champions Cup.

He has extensive coaching experience, currently serving as the head coach of the Alnwick 1st XV, the Lead Development Coach at Northumbria University, and the throwing coach for the South African Schools Captain.