Gilbert Inglefield Academy enjoyed putting their rugby skills to the test

Gilbert Inglefield Academy enjoyed putting their rugby skills to the test, in an unforgettable day of rugby at the Allianz Stadium.

The school, based in Leighton Buzzard, were nominated by their school rugby manager to take part in an action-packed day at the home of English rugby as part of the Allianz Kick Start Programme.

Allianz Kick Start is a six-week long programme designed to introduce primary school classes to T1 Rugby - a fun, non-contact form of rugby.

Through a series of six lessons led by special coaches and hosts, the programme introduces children to the sport with a combination of exciting games, cooperative learning exercises, and videos.

With the opportunity to play against schools from all over England in one of the world's most iconic sporting venues, and to have an exclusive tour of the changing rooms, Gilbert Inglefield teachers Jon Henkes and Jade Wheeler were excited for their students to showcase their new T1 Rugby skills.

“They've really enjoyed the Allianz Kickstart Programme,” said Henkes. “They've enjoyed the different styles of games and the way T1 can be adapted and played mixed as well, that's been really useful. 

“They've liked the stickers and all the little bits and bobs that come with it. A couple of them have never had medals before so that was really nice for them.

“We've also got quite a few rugby balls at our school, and I was able to give some of the balls to one of the students that doesn't have a lot and now he’s taking himself to the rugby club and he’s buzzing.”

Such was the excitement around the occasion, Wheeler even had parents volunteering to join the fun.

“The kids were so excited on the way down here,” she said. “It was great to see their little eyes light up walking into the Allianz Stadium. 

“We even had loads of parents volunteering to come and help us. We’re just in awe of the size of it and the opportunity. 

“To come somewhere so iconic and get out onto the pitch is fantastic.”

CBBC presenter Joe Tasker was present on the day to surprise the children and take part in some of the activities, after starring in the Allianz Kick Start 'Enjoyment' video to showcase the importance of having fun.

And while he may not be an elite rugby player, he noted how the day was a brilliant showcase of inclusive and accessible rugby.

"As someone who hasn’t played rugby before, it’s brilliant they wanted me to learn T1 Rugby with the schools that are also playing it," he said.

"I absolutely love that you don’t even need any experience - you can play it with a rugby ball, you can play it with a tennis ball.

“And I love being here in Allianz Stadium - we’ve got it all to ourselves. They wanted a professional and then I rocked up! I always get stuck in, I love it."

Allianz Kick Start is a six-week long programme designed to introduce primary school classes to T1 Rugby. A fun, non-contact form of rugby. Visit www.englandrugby.com for more information.