The new programme, will be player centred, development driven and competition supported with the wants and needs of young people at its heart. It will put player enjoyment above all else to keep more young people playing rugby.

There will be one national competition calendar for 6-18 year old rugby that will provide consistency across clubs, schools, colleges and representative rugby. This will help to build strong relationships between clubs and schools, which is vital for growing youth rugby.

September will also see the roll out of the New Rules of Play under Regulation 15. The New Rules provide building blocks to the 15-a-side game to allow players time to get to grips with the basics of running and catching before contact and specialism are introduced. Clubs and schools have started to introduce the New Rules and are seeing positive results. The 2016-17 season will see a full rollout across the country.

The Age Grade website is an important portal for resources, courses and support information, however there is a roadshow on the 22nd March at Twickenham. To book a place email agegraderugby@rfu.com

Please click through to the RFU website for further information.