Women’s rugby Academy.

If you live and breathe 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 Women’s 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

April Ishida – DMP Sharks, England U18, England U20
Niamh Swailes – Sale Sharks, England U18 Captain, England U20
Sophie Richardson – Tynedale U18, Northumberland U18

County Players

2024/25

Sophie Richardson – Northumberland U18

Charlotte Mellor – Northumberland U18

“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

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.

ACADEMY SUCCESS.

April Ishida

April started playing rugby when she was 11, and is now part of Gateshead College’s Women’s Rugby Academy where she is also studying a BTEC in Sport.

Through the Academy, April trains at the college three times a week, where she has access to world class facilities including an elite level strength and conditioning gym.

At the same time, she can continue her studies and combine the demands of her course with developing her rugby skills.