10 Best Rugby Academies in England (2025)

Rugby is one of the most loved sports in the UK, only second to football. For aspiring players, joining a rugby academy can be the first step toward a professional career. England is home to some of the best rugby academies in the world, offering world-class coaching, facilities, and opportunities to grow. Whether you’re a local or an international player dreaming of making it big, here are the 10 best rugby academies in the south of the UK.

1. Hartpury College Rugby Academy

Hartpury College in Gloucestershire is one of the most renowned rugby academies in the UK. It has produced over 200 professional players, including England stars like Jonny May and Ollie Thorley.

How to Get In:

• Apply through the Hartpury College website.
• Attend open trials or showcase your skills at local tournaments.
• Scholarships are available for talented players.

What Makes It Special:
Hartpury has partnerships with Gloucester Rugby and offers a mix of academic and rugby training. Their state-of-the-art facilities include a gym, sports science labs, and multiple rugby pitches.

Website: Hartpury College Rugby Academy

2. Millfield School Rugby Academy

Located in Somerset, Millfield School is famous for its sports programs. The rugby academy has produced international players like Mako and Billy Vunipola.

How to Get In:

• Apply through the school’s admissions process.
• Attend rugby camps or trials hosted by the school.
• Scholarships are available for exceptional talent.

What Makes It Special:
Millfield offers a holistic approach, combining education with elite rugby training. The school has excellent facilities, including a high-performance gym and recovery suites.

Website: Millfield School Rugby Academy

3. Saracens Rugby Academy

Based in North London, Saracens is one of the most successful clubs in English rugby. Their academy is known for developing young talent into world-class players.

How to Get In:

• Join local rugby clubs affiliated with Saracens.
• Attend talent identification days.
• Excel in school or county-level rugby to get noticed.

What Makes It Special:
Saracens’ academy focuses on mental toughness and teamwork. They have a strong track record of producing players for the England national team.

Website: Saracens Rugby Academy

4. Bath Rugby Academy

Bath Rugby Academy in Somerset is another top choice for aspiring players. It has produced stars like Anthony Watson and Sam Underhill.

How to Get In:

• Join local clubs linked to Bath Rugby.
• Attend regional development camps.
• Perform well in school or county teams to get scouted.

What Makes It Special:
Bath Rugby Academy offers a clear pathway to professional rugby. Their coaching staff includes former international players.

Website: Bath Rugby Academy

5. London Irish Rugby Academy

London Irish, based in Reading, has a strong academy program that focuses on developing well-rounded players.

How to Get In:

• Attend open trials or development camps.
• Join partner clubs or schools.
• Showcase your skills in regional competitions.

What Makes It Special:
The academy emphasizes skill development and game intelligence. They also provide academic support for young players.

Website: London Irish Rugby Academy

6. Leicester Tigers Academy

Leicester Tigers, one of the most successful clubs in English rugby history, has a renowned academy that has produced legends like Martin Johnson and Ben Youngs.

How to Get In:

• Join local clubs or schools linked to Leicester Tigers.
• Attend regional trials or development days.
• Stand out in county or national tournaments.

What Makes It Special:
The academy focuses on developing players with a strong work ethic and technical skills. They also offer mentorship from senior players.

Website: Leicester Tigers Academy

7. Harlequins Rugby Academy

Harlequins, based in London, has a rich history and a strong academy program. They’ve produced players like Marcus Smith and Joe Marler.

How to Get In:

• Attend open trials or development camps.
• Join partner schools or clubs.
• Excel in regional competitions to get scouted.

What Makes It Special:
Harlequins’ academy focuses on creativity and flair, encouraging players to express themselves on the field.

Website: Harlequins Rugby Academy

8. ACE Rugby Academy Bishop Burton

ACE Rugby Academy, based at Bishop Burton College in East Yorkshire, is a fantastic option for young players looking to combine education with elite rugby training.

How to Get In:

• Apply through the Bishop Burton College website.
• Attend open trials or showcase your skills at local tournaments.
• Scholarships are available for talented players.

What Makes It Special:
The academy offers a dual career pathway, allowing players to pursue academic qualifications alongside rugby training. Their facilities include a high-performance gym and rugby pitches.

Website: ACE Rugby Academy Bishop Burton

9. Elite Rugby Academy

Elite Rugby Academy is a unique program designed to develop players for professional rugby. It offers a high-performance environment for young athletes.

How to Get In:

• Apply through the Elite Rugby Academy website.
• Attend trials or showcase your skills at regional tournaments.
• Scholarships and bursaries are available for talented players.

What Makes It Special:
The academy focuses on individualized coaching and player development. They also provide academic support and career guidance.

Website: Elite Rugby Academy

10. Coventry College Rugby Academy

Coventry College Rugby Academy offers a fantastic opportunity for young players to develop their skills while pursuing further education.

How to Get In:

• Apply through the Coventry College website.
• Attend open trials or showcase your skills at local tournaments.
• Scholarships are available for talented players.

What Makes It Special:
The academy provides a clear pathway to professional rugby, with partnerships with local clubs and access to excellent facilities.

Website: Coventry College Rugby Academy

Conclusion

The south of the UK is a hotspot for rugby talent, and these academies offer some of the best pathways to success. Whether you’re looking for a school-based program or a club academy, there’s something for everyone. Remember, getting into these academies requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for the game. So, lace up your boots, train hard, and who knows—you might be the next rugby star!

If you’re an international player, don’t hesitate to reach out to these academies directly. Many of them welcome players from around the world and offer support with visas and accommodation. Good luck!