Sport - Rugby Development Programme

The Rugby Development Programme is an elite Rugby Academy in association with Wakefield Trinity RLFC for aspiring rugby players (male & female) that runs alongside your education.

Our unique approach to it alongside a top team of staff gives you the opportunity to develop as a player while studying on a course at Wakefield College.

The programme consists of a professionally designed bespoke Rugby League training programme involving coaching including Strength & Conditioning sessions, recovery and performance analysis sessions, revolving around weekly fixtures in the RFL National Category 3 League and Cup. We are recognised by the RFL as an accredited Development Academy for both males and females due to our level of success and progression into professional and elite level rugby.

As an RFL Development Academy we are also uniquely working with the RFL to create a pathway for aspiring referees. There is the opportunity to get qualified, up skill and supported as you begin your journey to become a Rugby League match official.

The courses available alongside the Rugby Development Programme are all sports courses ranging from Level 1 Sport to Level 3 Sport including Sport & Exercise Science.

You will study modules such as Coaching and Leadership, Anatomy, Biomechanics, Nutrition, Psychology, Massage, Performance Analysis plus much more.

You will also receive a rugby education designed by our Rugby and pro club coaches on developing skills, squad practices, how to break teams down and how to win.

The Rugby Development Programme is open to students aged 16 – 19 (male & female). Selection is through rugby trials during the spring and summer period. RDP players should be currently playing to a high standard relative to their age (scholarship/top grassroots). You must of course meet the entry criteria for your full-time course as well.

Students can progress into university at Wakefield College University Centre (and carry on their Rugby Development) or other UK universities to study a course of their choice. There is opportunities to travel to Australia and possibly Canada as the game grows and learn to coach and referee with RFL qualifications.

Successful hard-working players could gain opportunities to play at a professional or semi-professional level. If you decide to carry on in education you can play a high standard of university sport, either in the UK or abroad. Players could also pursue employment in the sport industry (worth over £20 billion). These are all subject to the academic course of their choice.