England star’s assembly call

Rugby

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Pupils at Sutton Valence School enjoyed a rugby twist to home-schooling this month as England newboy Max Malins hosted a memorable virtual assembly. With primary and secondary schools closed since January 5, lockdown is taking its toll on mental and physical health, prompting the England Rugby assembly initiative, aimed at providing respite and support for students, teachers, and parents.

Schools and colleges that had been going the extra mile to support their community and promote rugby union were selected, with players talking to students at state primary and secondary schools.

Mark Howell, director of sport and head of rugby at Sutton Valence School, said: “It was massively appreciated that Max Malins gave his time to speak to us and it was fantastic to be able to provide a chance for our guys and girls to do something different on a Monday morning.

“The question and answer session with Max was a great opportunity for Sutton Valence School pupils not only to learn a great deal from a current England international in a rigorous

Six Nations training camp, but it gave our pupils and community an exciting event to look forward to and plan for, in addition to our successful online schooling provision.

“A sincere thanks to England Rugby and Max for such an enjoyable experience’.

Malins said: “It was a pleasure speaking to all the students, I didn’t realise there would be 130 people until I saw all the faces on the Zoom call, which was great.

“Mark said the school reached the National Schools Under-18s Vase Final for the first time last year, and then it was cancelled due to the pandemic.

“I can only imagine how gutted the team must have been at not getting to play at Twickenham as I remember how much we all enjoyed the opportunity at Felsted School. I’m glad we could do something a bit different to soften the blow by chatting to everyone.”

Visit www.englandrugby. com/participation/playing/ inspired-to-play to hear England players sharing advice on how to develop your rugby skills and fitness at home. 6-18-year-olds can also follow fun rugby sessions online with former England internationals during lockdown.