Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy

Are you an aspiring rugby talent of the future?

If so, apply to join the men’s Exeter College Rugby Academy in partnership with Chiefs and follow in the stud marks of your rugby heroes. Aspiring rugby players will get the chance to nurture not only their rugby talent, but also get first-class education and training.

The Rugby Academy at Exeter College in partnership with Exeter Chiefs will provide education and rugby training required to support learners to reach the highest level in the sport. The programme caters for players from 16-18 years, for women and men. The deadline for applications to this academy is 9th February 2024.

How do I join?

How can I find out more?

James Kenny of Exeter Chiefs warms up prior to kick off – Ryan Hiscott/JMP – 04/10/2020 – RUGBY – Ricoh Arena – Coventry, England – Wasps v Exeter Chiefs – Gallagher Premiership Rugby

Exeter College Men’s Rugby Academy DiSE Programme

About the programme

What do you study on DiSE?

How are students selected?

What happens after DiSE?

Exeter College Women’s Rugby Academy DiSE Programme in partnership with Exeter Chiefs

About the programme

What do you study on DiSE?

How are students selected?

What happens after DiSE?

Charlie Budge during training. – Ryan Hiscott/JMP – 17/09/2020 – RUGBY – Sandy Park – Exeter, England – Exeter Chiefs Women – Training


Exeter College has been selected as an England Rugby Partner College. The College is one of only eight colleges that have received partner status, and will act as a flagship college for the South West, representing the region nationally.

This partner status means that the College will need to adhere to several operating standards which will benefit the programme. This includes utilising the RFU’s coaches, match official training programme, advocating best practise and providing a safe and enjoyable environment for rugby.


The Exeter College Women’s Rugby Academy regularly has players play for the Chiefs’ professional side.

Player Sponsorship

Some players choose to seek out sponsorship to help cover Rugby Academy fees. If you’re interested in sponsoring a player, please contact Sports Academy Manager Chris Wall on ChrisWall@exe-coll.ac.uk.

Current Player Sponsors 2020/21

Clara Grizzle-Johnson – KAS Cranes

Meet the Coaches

The Exeter College Rugby Academy within Exeter College is taught by our group of specialist coaches, helping you to develop your game in a truly professional environment. With a vast array of experience on and off the pitch, they can help you take the next steps of your career.

Professional Coaching

Our coaches are vastly experienced, with many having played and coached at a professional level.

Leading Facilities

Our facilities for sports students includes our state-of-the-art gym, as well as playing at our Exwick Sports Hub.

Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy Coaching Team at Exeter College
The Clock Tower provides accommodation for students to stay in the city centre 

The Clock Tower Boarding Accommodation

We are extremely proud of our new accommodation provision which enables our Exeter College Rugby Academy students, in partnership with Exeter Chiefs, the opportunity to focus both on their academic studies and their training schedules. In addition to the support from the college tutors, students will receive 24 hour care by our dedicated accommodation team who will liaise both with tutors and parents, be an advocate, listen, guide, encourage and nurture to facilitate a positive accommodation experience.


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