POCKLINGTON School has been selected to join Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club’s new Affiliated Schools Programme.

The affiliation gives pupils from the school an opportunity to play at Headingley before a home fixture, train with the first team, and meet the players.

As well as encouraging more youngsters to play the sport, the programme will also be on the look-out for talented youngsters with the potential to join Yorkshire Carnegie's academy.

Sean Houltham, master in charge of rugby at Pocklington School, said: “We have been recognised by Yorkshire Carnegie as a school that supports the individual to achieve their potential whilst also balancing their sporting and academic needs.

"This partnership is a great opportunity for pupils of all abilities to enjoy rugby, develop their skills, and fulfil their potential.”

Lewis Wilson, who left Pocklington's Upper Sixth form this summer, was joint vice-captain of the school's 1st XV and Yorkshire Carnegie's Senior Academy Player of the Year in 2015. He has also won three caps for the England U18 side.

Adam Blades, Yorkshire Carnegie's community manager, said: “It is great to have Pocklington on board as one of the 16 affiliated schools.

“This is in recognition of the commitment Pocklington has shown in attending various Yorkshire Carnegie games and events over the past few years. They have also allowed us the use of their school facilities as a host venue for our community events.”

Yorkshire Carnegie has a number of existing player development programmes in place with schools.

The Affiliated Schools Programme will run alongside the existing schemes and provide further opportunities for schools across Yorkshire to engage with the club. It is not focused on player development.

Lisa McCann, Schools Development manager, said: “We are delighted to launch this scheme for our schools. This is a chance for us to engage all of their students with Yorkshire Carnegie even if they do not play rugby union. We are hoping to inspire the next generation of Yorkshire Carnegie fans and this is an exciting time for us.”