1823 Bursary

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Established in 2023 to celebrate the bicentenary of Rugby Football, the 1823 Bursary Fund will offer means-tested places at Rugby School for boys or girls who show significant promise and aptitude for sport and a commitment to Rugby Football, with up to 100% of fees and essential extras available. The 1823 Bursary will open the doors of Rugby to young people, coming from the UK, with a real passion for the sport 

To widen access to more young people who would otherwise be unable to join the Rugbeian Community, please make your gift by visiting our online donation page

The 1823 Bursary places are available for day or boarding students joining at 13+ or 16+.  To find out more or express an interest, please contact our Admissions Team

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Sam Howells

Sam joined Rugby in 2009 from a local school where he had struggled to reach his academic potential and find support for his talent for rugby football. When a friend in the local rugby club had mentioned applying to Rugby School, Sam decided to find out more. When he discovered that he might qualify for reduced fees by applying for a means-tested bursary place, Sam sat the entrance exams and explained in an interview how he was passionate about rugby football. The School spotted Sam’s potential in the classroom as well as on the pitch, and he joined Rugby as a 13-year old in Town House. 

By the time he reached the sixth form, Sam was playing in the first team on The Close – the legendary pitch that is the birthplace of the game and he continued to play rugby after he left. Still passionate about the sport, Sam now enjoys a successful career in finance.

If you, or someone you know, might be interested in following in Sam’s footsteps and applying for an 1823 Bursary, please get in touch.