We are delighted to share that Fairfield Prep School’s Director of Sport, Jo Hacket, has been appointed as a founding member of the newly established England Rugby Schools (ERS) Board — a major new initiative by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) aimed at transforming the strategic direction and delivery of school rugby across the country.
Representing a key recommendation from the Coles Review of Rugby in Schools, which identified the need for a more modern, responsive and inclusive governance model for school rugby, this national Board marks a new chapter in how the RFU engages with the schools’ sector.
The first official meeting of the ERS Board, which takes place this month, will see members begin shaping the scope and strategic objectives of the group ahead of the new academic year. Bringing together a high-level group of education and sport sector experts, the Board will work collaboratively with the RFU to:
- Establish a long-term vision and strategy for school rugby in England
- Define and communicate the roles of schools and stakeholders within that vision
- Monitor the implementation of strategic goals and report on outcomes
- Promote the values of Rugby Union in both curricular and extra-curricular life
- Ensure the sport is inclusive, accessible and aligned with the needs of modern schools
Speaking about her invite to join the Board, Jo said: “I am delighted to have been asked to join the redeveloped RFU Schools Board and am looking forward to meeting the other board members; working alongside them to support the development of the school rugby programme nationally and, in some small part, to be involved in growing and sustaining the sport.”
She continued: “Having grown up in a family where rugby was part of everyday life, and now as a parent to an aspiring player, and with over 20 years’ experience in physical education, I hope to bring both passion and practical insight to this exciting role.”
Rather than relying on passive sub-committees, ERS will operate through Workstream Leads focused on key areas of growth and delivery, such as Tier 1 rugby or girls’ rugby. These leads will mobilise volunteers and action groups to share best practice, gather feedback, and champion innovation at both local and national levels.
