Finborough School is proud to be recognised as one of the top UK sports schools, offering an exceptional Rugby programme that consistently develops elite-level talent.
Rugby excellence
Developing school Rugby talent from grassroots to professional pathways
As one of the best schools for Rugby in the UK, Finborough combines expert coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong competitive fixture list to nurture players from grassroots to professional pathways. Whether you’re searching for UK schools for rugby or a school that champions both academic and athletic excellence, Finborough stands out and has a history of developing young athletes aiming to reach their full potential on and off the pitch.
Professional Contracts and England Caps
In 2025 alone, pupils earned selections for the England U18 squad, the IRFU IQ Rugby Tour, and the Northampton Saints Senior Academy – with one pupil, Henry Lumley, making history as the youngest ever Premiership debutant for the Saints. These achievements reflect the school’s commitment to high-performance sport, expert coaching, and a supportive environment that nurtures both athletic and academic growth. For families seeking the best schools for Rugby in the UK, Finborough offers a proven pathway to elite-level success.
Among 2026s standout performers, Charlie Tamani emerged as a defining figure in the England U18 Squad. His performances throughout the season set a new benchmark for what Finborough athletes can achieve and we are extremely excited to see what is next for Charlie. Read about his Six Nations appearance here.
Our experienced coaching team works in close partnership with students, families, and external coaches to identify and support each individual’s pathway. This journey begins in Year 12 with an introductory seminar on scholarships and professional contracts, followed by tailored, one-to-one guidance throughout the Sixth Form.
6% of our Year 13 students go on to receive sports scholarships at top universities, in the UK and abroad, or sign professional contracts.
Girl’s Rugby in Suffolk
Girls’ Rugby Programme
Rugby offers so much more than physical fitness; it builds resilience, teamwork, and confidence.
Official Girls Pathway Partner
Finborough School is delighted to be the Official Girls Pathway Partner of Bury St Edmunds Rugby Football Club (RUFC). As part of the agreement, Finborough and Bury St Edmunds RUFC are working together on a range of initiatives, including joint events, expert coaching sessions, and training opportunities for pupils within the Girls Youth age bracket. Students benefit from access to the club’s professional coaching team, ensuring high-quality rugby development both at school and at the club’s facilities.
Prep School Girls’ Rugby
Years 3 – 6
Weekly Rugby Club sessions focus on fun drills, mini-games, and team-building activities. Pupils learn the fundamentals through Tag and Touch Rugby, developing skills in running, passing, catching, and evasion
Senior School Girls’ Rugby
Years 7+
Building on these foundations, older students progress to more advanced techniques, including rucking, mauling, and age-appropriate contact, introduced safely and under expert supervision.
Rugby alumni
Celebrating Finborough’s rugby alumni and achievements
Finborough Rugby continues to build an exceptional record of player development, with alumni now boasting more than 300 professional appearances across the game. The programme has produced talent represented at five different Premiership clubs, demonstrating both depth and versatility in its pathway. Players have earned six England age‑grade honours, with two progressing to full senior international caps, highlighting the school’s ability to nurture elite‑level potential. Perhaps most impressively, four academy contracts have been secured directly from school, underscoring Finborough’s reputation as one of the most effective rugby development environments in the UK.
Junior Kpoku
Joined Finborough in 2021, playing across second row and back row. Earned England U17, U18 and U20 honours, including being part of the U20 World Cup‑winning squad. Secured professional contracts with Exeter Chiefs (2023), Racing 92 from 2024–2026, and Toulon from 2026.
Henry Lumley
Joined Finborough in 2016, playing at centre and earning England U17, U18 and U20 caps. Signed with Northampton Saints for 2025, becoming the club’s youngest Premiership player to date.
Sol Moody
Joined Finborough in 2014 as a hooker, progressing through the Northampton Saints Academy. Signed professionally with Exeter Chiefs in 2023 and is currently on loan with the Cornish Pirates.
Louie Sinclair
Joined Finborough in 2007 as a fly half, progressing through the Saracens Academy. Signed professionally with Exeter Chiefs in 2023 and is currently on loan with the Cornish Pirates.
Finborough Rugby Programme: Frequently Asked Questions
01
Who is on the coaching team at Finborough?
Mitch Turner – Head of Rugby
Mitch Turner leads Finborough’s Rugby programme with a clear vision and deep commitment to player development.
Mitch brings a performance-focused yet character-driven coaching philosophy to the programme, regularly contributing to wider rugby discussions on youth development and player wellbeing. Mitch’s leadership ensures each player benefits from informed guidance, strong technical coaching and a supportive environment that encourages excellence both on the pitch and in the classroom.
Harvey Finbow – Coach
Harvey Finbow is an integral part of the Finborough rugby coaching team, working closely with our Head of Rugby to develop our young players’ technical skills, game understanding and competitive edge. In addition to his work at Finborough, Harvey brings broader coaching experience from his role with the Colchester RFC Colts, helping to nurture talent and passion for the game at grassroots club level.
02
What competitions do Finborough Rugby teams compete in?
Teams from Finborough compete in local and national competitions, including Rossyln Park and Merchiston Castle which the team won in 2025.
03
Does Finborough offer a girls’ rugby programme?
It does, and we are proud to have partnered with Bury St. Edmunds Rugby Union Football Club (RUFC) as its Official Girls Pathway Partner.
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Throughout the year we run Open Events and offer bespoke individual tours. Book your visit today.
