Rugby Partnerships

In conversation with Charlie Maddison 

Former England Rugby player Charlie Maddison is the latest addition to RGS Partnerships programme.

Part-funded by England Rugby (RFU), Charlie is working half the time coaching at RGS, and the rest in our local partner schools to inspire the next generation in areas of low participation.

It’s an exciting opportunity to build on the “funded-teacher” model that has been so successful here in Maths, Physics, Robotics and Computer Science.

Charlie, who played for Newcastle Falcons from 2019 to 2014, is one of 40 School Rugby Managers working across the country, all working towards the twin objectives of creating 'sustainable rugby playing in schools' and providing 'transition' pathways in local clubs. 

Charlie’s working week will involve a mix of mornings in partner schools, motivating and inspiring the next generations; in the afternoons (and Saturdays!) he will be bringing a huge amount of expertise to the RGS rugby programme.

He says:  “What we’re trying to do is give kids an opportunity to get a ball in their hands, run around, and get a taste of something they maybe haven’t done before.

“Hopefully that will spark their interest and lead them to their local rugby club. It’s a good way to help them connect.”

John Smith, Director of Partnerships, says: "There has been huge demand for Charlie's rugby offer already - and we fully expect to reach thousands of young people this school year through this innovative programme, in partnership with England Rugby.

“There are areas of the North East where rugby won't be on the radar of children at all - it is our mission to change that, and to ignite a passion that might not otherwise be sparked!" 

Andy McBride, former RGS Deputy Head Co-Curricular, praised Charlie’ s “fantastic start” in the role.

“Mr Maddison is heavily involved in coaching all of our RGS teams and will also have significant impact on Rugby development in the wider community,” he said.

Charlie Maddison, RGS Rugby Partnership teacher.

 “We are so pleased to have him at the RGS. He has all the values, attitudes and character traits that we hold dear to us at the school.” 

- Andy McBride, Former RGS Deputy Head Co-curricular