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Men's Rugby

About Us

The Oaklands Wolves Rugby Academy programme focuses on developing athletes' skills, fitness, and knowledge of the game. It integrates elite sports training with vocational or A-Level courses to cultivate well-rounded performers.

In association with Saracens, the academy employs expert trainers and is dedicated to preparing individuals for progression into high-level sport.

From September 2024, students will have the opportunity to include men’s rugby as part of their study programme.

Programme Overview

The Oaklands Wolves Rugby Academy is designed to optimise your development as an individual player. With expert coaching and tailored support, you’ll train alongside some of the best, including regular sessions with Saracens Academy coaches and players.

The programme balances full-time education with intensive rugby training, giving you the foundation to succeed both on and off the pitch.

Our First XV competes in the National ACE League, England’s premier college rugby competition – a true test for elite college talent.

Key Features & Partnerships

  • High-Standard Training Facilities for elite rugby development

  • Specialist Strength & Conditioning programmes to maximise physical performance

  • Full-Time Education & Training: Academic study built around rugby training

  • Saracens Rugby Club Partnership: Access to high-quality coaching and player mentorship

This combination of top-tier coaching, academic flexibility, and elite competition ensures every player is given the opportunity to progress.

Important Information

This section provides important information regarding residential accommodation, team details, and academic requirements to join the men's rugby academy.

For more information, please refer to the drop down sections.

The academy has two teams: the 1st XV and the Development XV. While there are no specific level requirements, players must show proficiency in key skills, game understanding, and fitness. The 1st XV includes athletes from the Saracens Academy and U18 International level down to skilled club players.  

The 1st XV consists of around 30 players, and the Development squad has about 40, with 10-15 in a Development+ group. Integrated training groups throughout the week allow players to progress and aim for the 1st XV.  

The 1st XV competes in the AASE League, while the Development XV participates in competitive fixtures within the ACE League against local and regional schools and colleges. The academy also provides support for players on Performance Pathways or the Counties Pathway, aiding their transition into senior rugby.

To join the Oaklands Wolves Rugby Academy, you simply need to be enrolled on one of our full-time courses. Once you're part of the programme, you’ll train, compete, and develop alongside like-minded student-athletes.

All academy players are also required to purchase official Oaklands Wolves kit, available through our supplier, KitKing.

 

Find out more about enrolling

Order kit here

Student accommodation at our St Albans Campus is available for those enrolled in specialised programmes such as land-based courses, apprenticeships, and sports academies. Our aim is to create a safe, supportive community that helps you transition smoothly away from home.

Living at Oaklands

Alumni
  • Nick Tompkins: Former Oaklands student, now playing for Saracens and selected for the Wales Six Nations squad in 2020. 
  • Sean Vine: Completed his BTEC in sports performance at Oaklands and is now a Strength and Conditioning coach at Saracens
  • Jack Sutton: Officiates national level events

Rugby News

Stay up to date with all the latest Rugby news. 

News: 20 June 2025

World School Games Brings Local Pupils Together at Oaklands College

Oaklands College proudly hosted the World School Games today, welcoming schools from across the local area for a fun-filled day of sport and activity. Young students took part in a variety of sporting sessions led by Oaklands coaches and supported by college students. Activities included karate, cycling, and football, giving pupils the chance to try something new in a friendly and inclusive environment. The World School Games is always a highlight on the calendar — a lovely, lively event that brings the community together through sport. It not only gives young children the chance to build confidence and learn new skills, but also allows Oaklands students to take on leadership roles and inspire the next generation. A brilliant day for all involved, reinforcing the power of sport to unite, uplift, and connect the local community. Read More

News: 09 May 2025

Sixteen Saracens Pathway Players Earn England Rugby Coaching Award through RWC2025 Legacy Programme

Sixteen talented players from the Oaklands Wolves Women’s Rugby Academy, part of the Saracens Pathway, have taken a major step forward in their rugby careers after successfully completing the prestigious England Rugby Coaching Award (ERCA). Read More

News: 11 April 2025

Oaklands Saracens Pathway Trio Earn England U18 Call-Up for Six Nations Festival

Three players from the Oaklands Saracens Academy – Lily Pereira dos Santos, Isabel van der Straaten, and Jess Taylor – have received international call-ups to represent England in the U18 Women’s Six Nations Festival. | Photo by Saracens Women Read More
News & Events>
Contact

CHRIS WARING
HEAD OF RUGBY

01727 737472
chris.waring@oaklands.ac.uk

Which Sports Academy are you interested in joining? *

Please note, young people with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or additional SEND and/or medical needs MUST be declared.  For those with an EHCP, the College is required to follow a statutory ‘Consultation’ process to ensure a student’s needs can be met within the College. We ask that students with any other additional needs that do not have an EHCP declare their needs so we can assess any provision required.  Students can make the appropriate declarations on their College application.  Failure to declare an EHCP or additional SEND/health needs can impact on the young person’s application to the College and access to the Academies.

Do you have an Educational Health Plan? *
Are you interested in residential accommodation? *

Register your interest

If you’re passionate about taking your athletic performance to the next level, Oaklands Wolves Sport Academies are the perfect place to unlock your potential. Offering elite coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and tailored development pathways, we nurture talent across a wide range of sports.

Whether you’re aiming for professional competition or looking to sharpen your skills, our academies provide the guidance and support to help you excel.

Register your interest today and join the wolfpack.