Hartpury College's Women's Rugby Academy is for ambitious players who want to develop in a high-performance environment while studying at college. Recognised as one of the leading pathways in the women's game, the academy combines expert coaching, competitive fixtures, performance support and outstanding facilities. 

As a proud participant in the ACE (Academies, Colleges and Education) programme, our teams compete against some of the strongest college rugby programmes in the country. The academy has an outstanding record within the competition, winning four ACE Championship titles and seven Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens ACE titles. 

A key strength of the programme is its close relationship with Gloucester Hartpury, three-time consecutive Premiership Women's Rugby champions. Students learn in an environment closely aligned with the professional game, with coaching and development opportunities shaped by the Gloucester Hartpury pathway. 

Depending on your chosen course and rugby commitments, there may be opportunities to combine your studies with training and competition through the Rugby Academy. Support, playing opportunities and performance services vary depending on your squad and Sports Academy membership tier. 

Many students progress into the Gloucester Hartpury pathway, while others have gone on to represent England age-grade and senior teams, compete in Rugby World Cups and secure professional contracts. 

The academy is best suited to players who are driven, resilient and committed to continuous improvement, whether their goal is to pursue elite rugby or compete at a high level alongside their studies. 

Discovery Days 

The Hartpury College Rugby Academy Discovery Days give prospective students the opportunity to experience the Hartpury environment, meet the coaching team and take part in practical rugby sessions. 

Players will be assessed on their current ability, long-term potential, attitude and coachability. Discovery Days also help inform scholarship decisions alongside playing history and wider performance information. 

We strongly encourage all prospective academy players to attend. It's a valuable opportunity to ask questions, meet the coaching staff and understand the standards and expectations of the programme. 

2027 Entry Discovery Days 

These events are open to students looking to join Hartpury College in September 2027. 

Date: Friday 30 October 2026 and Friday 19 February 2027 
Time: 10am to 2pm 

Further details, including what to bring and how to prepare for the day, will be provided following registration. 

What to expect as a player

Training schedules vary depending on squad allocation, individual development needs and Sports Academy membership tier, but players can expect a structured programme that combines technical coaching, physical development and competitive rugby. 

Some players from outside the elite group may also access selected elite training opportunities. Players who are not part of the elite group continue to receive regular coaching, competitive playing opportunities and support from the strength and conditioning team, with access to additional gym sessions subject to availability.  

Many of the academy's training opportunities take place after the college day has finished, allowing students to benefit from additional coaching and development time around their studies. For students who do not live on campus, this may mean arranging collection later in the afternoon, ensuring they can make the most of the performance opportunities available.  

From your first few weeks, you'll be introduced to academy expectations, meet your coaches and teammates, experience the training environment and begin your individual development journey within the programme.

Performance services

Women's Rugby Academy athletes benefit from access to a comprehensive network of performance support services designed to maximise development and wellbeing. Depending on your squad level and academy membership tier, you may have access to a range of specialist performance services. Support may include: 

• Strength and conditioning coaching
• Sport science support
• Sports therapy and physiotherapy
• Performance analysis
• Nutrition guidance
• Recovery support
• Injury prevention and rehabilitation programmes 

This multidisciplinary approach helps players maximise performance while supporting their health, wellbeing and long-term development.  

Squad structure

The Hartpury College Women's Rugby Academy offers playing opportunities at a range of competitive levels, ensuring students can access appropriate challenges and progression opportunities. 

ACE Team (Tier 1 Sports Academy Membership) 

The academy's highest-performing players compete in the national ACE Championship programme and Rosslyn Park ACE competitions. 

Second Team (Typically Tier 2 Sports Academy with a select few in Tier 1) 

Competes in the AoC Premiership against leading college rugby programmes from across the country. 

Third and Fourth Teams (Tier 2 Membership) 

Compete in AoC Championship competitions, providing valuable development opportunities and regular match experience. 

Movement between teams is based on performance, development, commitment and academy requirements, allowing players to progress throughout their time at Hartpury.  

Ready to take the next step in your rugby journey? 

Apply for your chosen Hartpury College course and register your interest in the Rugby Academy. If you're not quite ready to apply, you can complete the interest form below to receive updates and find out more about opportunities within the programme.