Rugby players at Chatham House have set out a marker for senior opponents in the coming years with a successful season which comes as the school makes plans to establish a rugby academy.

The under 15 team – which will graduate to form the first and second XV in September – have just enjoyed a successful season, winning 10 out of their 13 matches and scoring 501 points in the process.

Master in charge of the side Richard Merivale said: “What impressed me about this group of players is that teamwork was the key to their success. They really played for the shirt, for each other, and were entertaining to watch.

“I hope that the majority of the players will be in the first and second XV set up later this year because I believe they can develop into one of our most successful senior squads.”

The team was captained by Charlie Orton. Leading points scorer was Kieron Rooks with 81 points; top try scorers were Kemet Pink with 12 tries and Dominic Munich with 11.

First XV win 14The present first XV completed another impressive season, winning 14 of their 21 fixtures. Notable performances included a 40-17 win over Kings Rochester and a victory over Kings Canterbury second XV with the side missing several key players. The second XV showed their continual improvement by winning five of their nine matches.

Tour to BarcelonaThe annual rugby tour saw 24 senior players and four coaches travel to Barcelona where they won three of their five matches.

Victories came against Poblenou under 17 side 43-0; against Poblenou under 19s, 26-7; and against a visiting UK school team from Woodford, who were beaten 5-3. In the reverse match against Woodford, CHS lost 13-17; and were also beaten 10-13 by the local team of Sitges.

The Barcelona trip was sponsored by Ridge Crest Cleaning Limited, with continued backing from Thorley Leisure, and Farleys furnishings.

Centre of rugby excellenceMeanwhile, a rugby academy is being developed Chatham House. The centre of excellence is in line to become part of the timetable from September.

The idea is to extend sporting opportunities, enable students to gain specific sports qualifications and additional awards, and receive regular quality coaching.

Positive feedback to the idea has come from Kent’s rugby development officer Andy Pratt and the county’s PE advisor Jo Winkler, with a possible academy link to Saracens RFC.

Head teacher John Mathews said: “The Rugby Academy would be structured around the academic timetable. Its aim is to support, nurture and develop young players in an attempt to reach their potential through rugby.

“The academy would link well to vocational subjects such a Leisure and Tourism and would enable enhanced inclusion of students who might not fully meet the academic profile of the current sixth form entry requirements.”