The AASE scheme - Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence - is targeted at talented Year 12 and Year 13 students who have the realistic potential to play at the elite end of the game. It is a three-tiered framework supporting the boys in both their rugby and academic development. The boys follow a technical certificate at our academic partner St Paul’s which largely consists of A level and BTEC qualifications in their chosen subjects and then work towards an NVQ Level 3 in Sporting Excellence at London Irish which is the equivalent value of 2 A levels in UCAS points.

The AASE program consequently gives them the opportunity to combine rugby training on a daily basis at London Irish with academic study in the sixth form at our education partner St Paul’s Catholic College in Sunbury Middlesex.

St Paul’s Catholic College has an excellent academic track record and will provide options ranging from BTEC to A levels to suit all academic abilities. It was praised in its last OFSTED report for its ‘excellent leadership’ and was described as the ‘fastest improving school in the area’. Indeed this year over 95% of students intent on university have achieved their first choice university.

The rugby component of the combined development process will be delivered on site at the London Irish training ground. All apprentices receive a skills development program that is worked out to their individual needs and will also include a competition program which will consist of AASE league games, academy games, junior club games and representative games where appropriate. The apprentices also follow a personalized strength and conditioning program and have a full time physio available to them. All apprentices will receive coaching from the AASE Manager Giselle Mather, the clubs academy staff - Neal Hatley and Justin Bishop - and Rob Palmer, who will supervise their conditioning, technical, tactical and competitive growth.

The scheme is a fantastic opportunity for young talented rugby players to really develop their potential in a premiership environment alongside like minded players whilst continuing their academic education. If you wish to apply, please contact the AASE manager with an Academic and Rugby CV by emailing giselle.mather@london-irish.com