School of Hard Knocks youngsters enjoy unforgettable Barbarians experience

Youngsters from the School of Hard Knocks were given a behind-the-scenes taste of elite rugby after spending a week with the Barbarians ahead of their men’s and women’s fixtures against Wales national rugby union team.

The national education charity uses rugby to help young people build confidence, resilience and life skills.

Students from Hertswood Academy and Ashlyns School visited the Barbarians’ training camp at Wasps FC, where they watched preparations and took part in a skills session with a host of international stars before walking out as match-day mascots at Allianz Stadium.

The youngsters trained alongside players including Nathan Hughes, Ruby Tui, Vincent Koch, Charli Jacoby and Harry Thacker, while the Barbarians’ squads also featured Faf de Klerk, who captained the men’s side, and George North, who brought the curtain down on his illustrious playing career.

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Real privilege

Bristol Bears hooker Thacker said: “It was brilliant to welcome so many young people from the School of Hard Knocks to our joint training session and game this week.

“It’s a real privilege to be part of a team like the Barbarians, and it was fantastic to share some of that experience with the SOHK participants.”

Torran Macdougall, the charity’s director of programmes, described the initiative as “a truly priceless experience”.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Barbarians for welcoming our young people and creating such a unique and memorable experience at both the training camp and on match day,” he said.

“To stand on the same field, learn from and connect with world-class players before being part of an international fixture is something they’ll never forget.”

Incredible

A parent of a SOHK participant and Barbarians’ mascot commented: “My son had the most incredible experience.

“Memories for life and he can’t stop talking about it. What an amazing opportunity – I am extremely grateful.

“Walking out at Twickenham is something he will never forget so thank you.” 

School Of Hard Knocks (SOHK) is a UK education charity founded in 2012 by Ken Cowen to tackle the national crisis of school engagement and attendance.

Its proven psychology-informed programme comprises of rugby sessions, 1:1 mentoring and group personal development sessions.

Today, SOHK works with more than 1,000 students aged from 11–16 years facing complex challenges across 29 secondary schools in England, Scotland and Wales.

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