Greenham Common Trust Supports Park House School’s Girls’ Rugby Programme

For the past eight months Park House School has been developing a senior girls’ rugby programme thanks to the generosity of Greenham Common Trust.

In April, the scheme’s success was demonstrated when the sixth formers became the first ever Southern Area Under-18 7s Champions, winning every game on the way to the title.

This new programme builds on the earlier success of the girls squad in Years 10 and 11.

Chris Boulton, Chief Executive of Greenham Common Trust said: “We were very happy to be able to provide funds to go towards specialist rugby coaching, and the results are phenomenal.

“This programme has gone beyond the rugby pitch, and the skills they have learnt have helped improve their confidence, and character.”

The Trust’s support meant the school could offer an AASE (Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence) style provision within a state school environment. Students are able to combine academic work alongside elite coaching without compromising their chosen field of study.

The girls have received six hours of coaching a week from London Irish Community Coach, Joe Harwood.

Park House Headteacher, Derek Peaple said: "The girls produced what I can only describe as one of the most complete team performances I have ever seen. Their collective spirit and the way in which they supported and encouraged one another was really special.

“I am so grateful to GCT for enabling us to deliver our vision of young women who can combine outstanding academic progress, and achievement with high performance in sport.”