DOYRMS Joins RFU Boys ACE Rugby League with Saracens Rugby Club
The Duke of York’s Royal Military School (DOYRMS) is proud to announce the launch of its new ACE Rugby Programme, an elite Sixth Form rugby pathway delivered in partnership with Saracens Rugby Club. Designed for students entering Year 12 from September 2026, the programme combines high-performance rugby with outstanding academic provision, offering young athletes a unique opportunity to develop both on and off the field.
As part of the ACE (Academy Colleges and Education) competition framework, DOYRMS will represent Saracens in national schoolboy rugby, providing players with a professional-style training environment, competitive fixtures against Premiership-affiliated schools, and access to academy-level performance standards. Alongside this, students will benefit from the school’s strong academic outcomes, with many progressing to Russell Group and Oxbridge universities.
The programme mirrors an academy model, incorporating structured strength and conditioning, medical and physiotherapy support, video analysis, nutrition education, and individual skills development, while remaining fully integrated within the School’s Sixth Form experience.
The Saracens ACE Rugby Programme will officially be unveiled at a Launch Event on Saturday 21st March, where prospective students and families of all year groups can meet coaching staff, tour facilities, and learn more about the pathway and the school’s rugby scholarships (available for Year 9).
Justin Loveridge, Director of Sport and Head of Rugby at DOYRMS, said: “This partnership represents a huge step forward for rugby at the Duke of York’s Royal Military School. Our aim is to provide an environment that mirrors the demands of elite rugby while maintaining exceptional academic standards. Working alongside Saracens allows us to offer students a genuine performance pathway, supported by outstanding facilities, expert coaching, and a strong pastoral framework. This programme is about developing complete young people, confident and ready for whatever comes next.”
Mike Hynard, Academy Manager at Saracens is delighted to confirm the partnership: “At Saracens, we place great emphasis on the holistic development of our academy players. These two ACE partnerships will provide high‑potential, talented rugby players with the opportunity to excel on the pitch and in the classroom. Students will be able to access a full range of courses, from BTECs to A‑Levels and both programmes offer residential accommodation, ensuring greater access and inclusivity across our region.”
The School’s rugby programme is supported by extensive on-site facilities, including six rugby pitches, a fully equipped strength and conditioning gym, indoor heated swimming pool for recovery, athletics track, and modern sports hall. Strong links with local rugby clubs also provide additional playing opportunities and player exposure.
Families interested in attending the launch event or learning more about the Saracens ACE Rugby Programme can book their place today by clicking here.