Take part in the action with Barney’s Summer Rugby Academy. A programme led by Course Director, Martin Pepper and former England scrum-half and Barney’s Rugby Head Coach, Lee Dickson, that blends elite performance with enjoyment and character development.
Summer Rugby Academy at Barnard Castle School
Barnard Castle School invites young athletes aged 11-16 to experience an unforgettable week of rugby at our Summer Rugby Academy, running from Sunday 19th July to Saturday 25th July for residential participants and Monday 20th July to Friday 24th July for day attendees.
Designed for boys and girls aged 11 to 16, the Academy builds on our proud rugby tradition and combines top-level expert coaching in a safe, inclusive environment to help aspiring players develop their skills, confidence, and love for the game.
Rugby is at the heart of Barnard Castle School’s identity. For decades, our teams have competed at the highest levels, and our alumni include some of England Rugby’s most celebrated names: Rob Andrew, Rory and Tony Underwood, Mathew Tait, and, most recently, Guy Pepper.
Leadership
Led by Senior Deputy Head and Course Director, Martin Pepper, RFU Level 4 coach and former Harlequins and England 7s player, alongside Master i/c Rugby and Head Coach, Lee Dickson, former England international scrum-half and Northampton Saints Captain, and current Attack Coach at Newcastle Red Bulls, the Academy offers a programme that blends elite performance with enjoyment and character development.
Supporting this is Welfare Manager and DSL, Will Chaloner, Housemaster of York House at Barnard Castle School, who oversees the wellbeing and pastoral care, ensuring a safe and supportive environment throughout the week.
Martin Pepper
Course Director
Lee Dickson
Master i/c Rugby
Will Chaloner
Welfare Manager and DSL
Academy Outline
Over the course of the week, players will take part in pre-season fitness training, technical and tactical workshops, and adapted game play formats including touch, tag, sevens, tens, and fifteens. Specialist sessions will cover sports psychology, nutrition, and game awareness, while an off-site visit to a Prem club will provide a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, a chance to spend time with professional players, and the opportunity to watch a live training session. Midweek, the Academy welcomes a high-profile professional player for a keynote talk and training drop-in, offering invaluable insight into life at the top of the sport.
Beyond rugby, the Academy promotes wellbeing through a balanced programme of co-curricular activities, healthy meals, and structured downtime. Residential students enjoy evening social events and full board accommodation, while day students join from breakfast through to late afternoon.
At the end of the week, every participant receives an individual feedback report with tailored player development goals, ensuring that progress continues long after the Academy concludes.
Fees
The Summer Rugby Academy is much more than a training camp; it is an experience that builds character, fosters ambition, and celebrates the joy of rugby.
- Full residential programme: £1,400 (From 3pm on Sunday 19th July to 9am on Saturday 25th July)
- Day attendance: £960 (from Monday 20th July to Friday 24th July – 8.20am – 5.30pm)
The fees are presented inclusive of VAT, and insurance cover is included in the course fees.
Spaces are limited, so secure your place today and take the next step in your rugby journey.
Booking
Bookings for Summer 2026 will open at the end of January and close at the end of June.
Age Groups for Training
Boys:
- 11–12 years (Going into Year 7–8, UK)
- 13–14 years (Going into Year 9-10, UK)
- 15–16 years (Going into Year 11-12, UK)
Girls:
- 11–13 years (Going into Year 7–9, UK)
- 11–13 years (Going into Year 10–12, UK)