PINEWOOD SCHOOL BILTON GRANGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
PINEWOOD SCHOOL BILTON GRANGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
MONKTON COMBE SCHOOL
MONKTON COMBE SCHOOL
RUGBY SCHOOL UK
RUGBY SCHOOL UK
BOYS ONLY BOYS ONLY
Invitational
Features
Location
Itinerary
Selection Phase
Highlight
Host
The Cotswold Invitational 2026 is an event that brings together young rugby players from selected schools and ARS Ruling Houses for a week-long tour to Cotswold. The event aims to foster the values of teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship while offering players a chance to compete at an international level. The tour includes competitive matches against schools, as well as coaching clinics, social events, and an unforgettable cultural experience.
The focus of the invitational is to develop pupils into products of traditional rugby schools both on and off the field, culminating in competitive games and joint training sessions. Players will also have the opportunity to visit some of the most prestigious rugby schools, providing both sporting and personal growth opportunities.
The Cotswold Invitational is designed to offer pupils a comprehensive experience that blends competition, training, cultural exposure, and fun. Key features of the invitational include:
Life as a student of a Rugby School experience: Full day experience of being a student in one of the visiting schools in the UK. Be a part of the most prestigious schools for a day. Go to lunch, go to classes, attend house assembly, tour of the rugby field, own a piece of the school tradition afterwards.
Networking with other student of a Rugby School: This is to introduce our students to the students of the school they are visiting. Zoom/google meet/STATERs community intro of UK to NGN students prior / during / post travel. They get to know each other and thus look forward to meeting and becoming friends.
Alumni of each of the that shall be visited.
Bilton Grange
Pinewood School
Rugby School
Monkton Combe School
Sir Nicholas Winterton (Former Member of Parliament of the UK)
Aileen Kane (Deputy CEO & COO of BSA Group)
Ed Mawle (Senior Investment Director currently at CBAM))
Lily Vere Nicoll (Artist)
Andrew Mitchell (Member of Parliament of the UK)
John Thomas, Baron Thomas of Cwmgiedd (British judge)
Chris Anderson (British-American businessman who is the head of TED)
Sir Richard Dearlove
(Former Head of the British Secret Intelligence Service (Mi6) )
Treasure hunt/Reward system: Students are awarded a piece of a whole shield or map for good behaviour (i.e. wake up on-time, bathe and get dressed, eat on time, take plate to sink, get to bus on-time, behave in school and enroute to school, following instructions, no infighting amongst themselves, use of kind and encouraging words towards themselves and staff) after each visit to a school. STATERs points are earned for good behaviours and obeying instructions on time and these points are alongside the piece of the shield or map awarded. At the end of each an ARS staff turns up at 7pm with a bag of toys and consumables for the children to spend their STATERs points on before going to bed.
Games: Players will compete in full-contact rugby games against some of the best rugby schools in the Cotswold.
Joint Training: Players will have joint training session with teams from some of the best rugby schools in the Cotswolds.
Training/Behavioral Classes: Prior to the tour, players will undergo 39 weeks training and behavioral class program, beginning 1st quarter of 2026 and concluding in September 2026, with four (4) training sessions per month. These sessions are designed to ensure that all players are prepared for the physical demands of full-contact rugby and moral core values of the ARS.
Camping: We propose a strategic camping phase, serving as a selection process for players who have completed training/behavioral classes and are in their final stages. The camp will provide an opportunity for us to assess and identify players who have demonstrated exceptional skills, values, and performance, making them eligible to represent the ARS, their schools and ruling houses during the invitational. This selection phase will enable us handpick talented and deserving players who embody the values and standards of our organization, ensuring that they are adequately prepared to represent us on this jprestigious tour
Tour Experience: In addition to rugby, players will have the opportunity to explore the Cotswold and its rich rugby history.
Full contact rugby: Please note, this will be a full-contact rugby tour. Players will be expected to tackle and be tackled, as the matches will NOT be played in a tag format.
Pinewood School, a prestigious independent co-educational prep school located in the picturesque sports village of Bourton, Shrivenham, Wiltshire SN6 8HZ, has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and sporting achievement Founded in 1875, Pinewood school has nurtured generations of young athletes, with rugby being a cornerstone of its sporting culture. The school's rugby program is meticulously designed o develop technical skills, teamwork, and a deep understanding of the game, with expert coaching and state-of-the-art facilities available to all students.
Pinewood school's rugby teams, comprising students aged 3-13, are renowned for their skill, discipline, and team spirit, regularly competing at the highest levels of prep school rugby The school's emphasis on teamwork, leadership, and resilience has helped shape the next generation of rugby stars, with many talented young players going on to represent top clubs and national teams.
Some notable achievements include:
- Regular participants in top prep school rugby competitions
- Strong performances in regional and national tournaments
- Development of talented young players who have gone on to represent top clubs and national teams
The school's facilities are equally impressive, with:
- Excellent rugby pitches
- Football and cricket fields
- Two AstroTurf fields for hockey and tennis
- Top-class coaching and training facilities
Pinewood School's commitment to developing young athletes extends far beyond the rugby field. The school prioritizes academic excellence, with a broad and balanced curriculum that challenges students to achieve their full potential. Character development is also a key focus, with students encouraged to develop qualities like leadership, teamwork, and resilience through a range of extracurricular activities and community service projects.
Bilton Grange was Founded in 1873, Bilton Grange is one of the UK’s most distinguished independent preparatory schools located at Rugby Road, Dunchurch, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV22 6QU, United Kingdom, renowned for its architectural beauty and its long-standing tradition of academic and sporting excellence. Set within 90 acres of stunning parkland designed by Augustus Pugin, the school has earned a stellar reputation for producing confident, well-rounded individuals who transition to the country’s leading senior schools. As the primary feeder to Rugby School, Bilton Grange is deeply connected to the very birthplace of rugby football, making its own rugby program a cornerstone of its prestigious sporting culture.
The school's rugby legacy is built on a foundation of discipline, sportsmanship, and a competitive spirit that resonates across regional and national levels. Bilton Grange has a storied history of nurturing athletes who go on to achieve significant success at the senior school level and beyond, with many Old Biltonians making their mark in professional sport and leadership roles. The school’s commitment to rugby development from the first introduction of the game to elite-level coaching—ensures that every player is given the opportunity to hone their technical skills and realize their full potential.
The Bilton Grange Rugby Program: As the younger partner in a formal merger with Rugby School, Bilton Grange provides an unparalleled pathway for young athletes. The school's focus on nurturing rugby talent from an early age ensures that students develop a deep tactical understanding and a solid technical foundation. Rugby at Bilton Grange is more than just a sport; it is a vital pillar of the curriculum used to instill essential character traits such as leadership, resilience, and teamwork.
The school’s rugby teams have enjoyed decades of success, consistently competing at the highest tiers of prep school sport. With access to world-class facilities, including expansive manicured pitches and expert coaching from staff with professional backgrounds, players are equipped with the tools to excel. The program prioritizes the development of the "whole person," ensuring that the values learned on the pitch—integrity and mutual respect—translate into all areas of life.
A Powerful Rugby Partnership: Together with its senior partner, Rugby School, Bilton Grange forms a world-renowned rugby hub where a passion for the game meets a tradition of historic excellence. Their combined legacy is not merely about winning trophies, but about fostering an environment where young athletes can thrive and pursue their dreams, whether they aspire to professional careers or a lifelong love of the sport.
Founded in 1868, Monkton Combe has a prestigious history of excellence in both academics and sport. Located just outside the historic city of Bath in the beautiful Midford Valley, just three miles south of the World Heritage City of Bath., it has earned a global reputation for producing not only elite athletes but also leaders of international influence, including former heads of MI6 and pioneers of global media. The school's rugby program is a vital artery of its sporting culture, characterized by a long-standing tradition of competitive success. Monkton Combe has produced a significant number of players who have transitioned to top-tier professional clubs and university sides, with its alumni known as Old Monktonians frequently making their mark in the professional sporting world.
Senior School: Monkton Combe, Bath, Somerset, BA2 7HG, UK.
Prep School: Church Road, Combe Down, Bath, Somerset, BA2 7JG, UK.
The school's rugby teams are renowned for their resilient spirit, technical discipline, and an unwavering emphasis on the "Monkton Way"—a philosophy centered on integrity and mutual support. Monkton Combe has consistently remained a formidable force in schoolboy rugby, securing top honours in regional and national competitions. The school's commitment to rugby development ensures that from the earliest years to the first XV, every player is given the expert coaching and psychological tools to hone their skills and achieve their full potential.
Monkton Prep: As the vital foundation to the senior school, Monkton Prep has been shaping young athletes for over a century The Prep School's focus on nurturing rugby talent from an early age ensures that students build a solid technical foundation while developing a genuine love for the game. Monkton Prep is widely recognized for its emphasis on character-building; here, rugby is a key pillar used to teach the essential life skills of leadership, courage, and resilience.
The Prep School's rugby teams have enjoyed sustained success, regularly competing at the highest levels of the West Country school circuit. With access to exceptional facilities and a coaching staff dedicated to the holistic growth of each child, players at Monkton Prep are empowered to excel. Many progress to represent the Senior School and beyond, carrying with them the teamwork and sportsmanship that are the hallmarks of a Monkton education.
Founded in 1567 by Lawrence Sheriff, purveyor of spices to Queen Elizabeth I, Rugby School is one of the oldest and most prestigious independent boarding schools in Britain. It holds a unique place in global history as the birthplace of rugby football. In 1823, a student named William Webb Ellis, with a "fine disregard for the rules," famously picked up the ball and ran with it, creating the distinct style of play that evolved into the world renowned sport. Today, Rugby School remains a paragon of scholastic and sporting distinction, fostering a culture where "excellence is a transferable skill".
The school's rugby program is unrivaled in its heritage, with matches played on The Close, the very field where the game began. This historic ground has witnessed the evolution of the sport's laws, terminology, and even the iconic white jersey of the England national team. Rugby School produces elite talent that frequently ascends to professional clubs and international squads. Its alumni, known as Old Rugbeians, include high-ranking politicians like Andrew Mitchell, literary giants such as Lewis Carroll and Salman Rushdie, and billionaire industrialists like Nusli Wadia.
The Rugby School Program: As a fully co-educational institution since 1992, Rugby School offers an elite sporting pathway for both boys and girls. The program is designed to challenge students to achieve their greatest potential through expert coaching and world-class resources. Students benefit from a holistic approach to athlete development, including access to specialist strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, and performance analysis.
The school's facilities are among the finest in the UK, featuring multiple floodlit multi-sport pitches, two multi-sport halls, and the Collingwood Sports Centre, which houses a 25-meter pool and a state-of-the-art fitness suite. Under the guidance of professional coaches, players develop leadership, resilience, and a deep-rooted passion for the game. The school's commitment to "unpretentious excellence" ensures that every student, whether aiming for the professional stage or playing for the love of the game, is supported in their pursuit of "higher things".
A Global Legacy: Rugby School's influence extends far beyond its Warwickshire campus, with international outposts including Rugby School Thailand and the recently opened Rugby School Nigeria. These campuses carry forward the same 460-year heritage, blending traditional British values with contemporary innovation.
As part of the selection process, we will be evaluating students based on the following criteria:
- Rule Following: Students who adhere to the program's rules and regulations.
- Procedure Following: Students who correctly follow laid-down steps and protocols.
- Respect for Authority: Students who listen to and cooperate with people or persons in authority.
- Pressure Handling: Students who stay composed and avoid negative language or behaviour when under pressure.
- Ethics and Behaviour: Students who demonstrate good ethics and behaviour, including attendance and participation in workshops.
The selection process will involve:
- Training sessions
- Behaviour classes
A 39 weeks training program and behaviour classes for primary & secondary players, held every Saturday from 8:30am - 12:00pm, four (4) Saturdays each month. This schedule reflects regular Saturday training session for Primary and Secondary.
Training: The training program is a comprehensive and structured development pathway, offering expert coaching and training in rugby. The program is tailored to meet the needs of players at different levels:- New players will be required to attend all sessions to develop foundational skills and build a strong foundation in the sport.- Experienced players will have the opportunity to skip foundational classes and attend advanced sessions to refine their techniques and enhance their performance. Fees for the training program will be charged accordingly, based on the player's level and attendance.
Training kits: Players will receive training kits
Camping: The 1-week behaviour classes are mandatory component for all tour members, designed to foster essential life skills and values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience through interactive and engaging activities. We want to address the following behaviours:
- Refusing to follow instructions from coaches, staff, or officials
- Disrespecting persons in positions of responsibility
- Disruptive behavior during downtime (e.g., in the living room)
- Argumentative behavior amongst players, on and off the field
These behaviours will be addressed during the classes to maintain a positive and respectful team environment
Please note that participation in the camping program and training program is conditional on payment of fees, which should be sent directly to All Rugby Schools account, and meeting the program's requirements
SATURDAY, 10TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 1
Arrival of Students with parent(s) at meet point
Departure from the meet point
Arrival at MM1 International Airport
Check-in at Airport
Flight departure
SUNDAY, 11TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 2
Arrival at UK Airport
Breakfast in transit
Depart Airport
Lunch in transit
Arrival and check-in Briefing
MONDAY, 12TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 3
Wake up
Shower
Dress up
Breakfast
Bag check for that days tour
Departure to visiting school
Lunch
Departure from visiting school
TUESDAY, 13TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 4
Wake up
Shower
Dress
Breakfast
Bag check for that days tour
Departure to visiting school
WEDNESDAY, 14TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 5
Wake up
Shower
Dress
Breakfast
Bag check for that days tour
Departure to visiting school
The full day experience (Class, lunch, rugby dinner) Lunch
Departure
THURSDAY, 15TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 6
Wake up
Shower
Breakfast
Bag check for that days tour
Departure to visiting school
Departure from visiting school
FRIDAY, 16TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 7
Wake up
Shower
Dress - up
Breakfast
Rest/Fun activities
Lunch (ARS covers it)
Prep
Wake up
Shower
Dress up
Breakfast
Departure to the Airport
Lunch in Transit
Arrival at the Airport
Check-in at Airport Flight Departure
SATURDAY, 17TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 8 Arrival at MM1 International
SATURDAY, 17TH OCTOBER 2026 - DAY 8
The Cheltenham Invitational 2025 Tour was a transformative experience for our students, offering a unique blend of cultural immersion, skill development, and personal growth. Through joint training sessions and games with esteemed schools like Pinewood School, and Bilton Grange, our students gained valuable insights into different approaches to sports and education.
The tour also provided opportunities for our students to represent our school with pride, showcasing their skills in a thrilling rugby match against Cheltenham North RFC. The experience of competing against top-notch teams and learning from experienced coaches has left a lasting impact on our students.
Beyond the sports arena, our students broadened their horizons through tours of iconic schools like Rugby School, where they discovered the rich history and traditions that have shaped the world of rugby. The tour also included fun-filled activities, such as shopping excursions and special outings with chaperones, allowing our students to bond and create lifelong memories.
Cheltenham Invitational 2025 officially begin on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, 8:30 to 12:00 with preparatory matches and training. It is important to note that this training was a key part of the preparation for the tour, so we kindly ask all participant to be available for each session.
Following the April 5th training, subsequent prep matches and training took place four Saturdays each month, continuing through the lead-up to the tour at Corona School Gbagada, Temple College, Ikeja Military Cantonment now renamed T.A. Lagbaja Cantonment.
Links and scan code to the brochures for your perusal:
- Link to view the proposed parent brochure: https://issuu.com/allrugbyschools/docs/ars_cheltenham_invitational_d
- Link to view the proposed student brochure: https://issuu.com/allrugbyschools/docs/are_you_ready_for_the_ultimate_rugby_ adventure
Welcome to the All Rugby Schools (ARS) house system, where tradition, and excellence come together to foster a vibrant and supportive community. Each house under the ARS umbrella is fully sponsored and supported, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive and grow.
Jedis Ruling House: Composed of schools under Corona Schools. This ruling house includes the Primary RHC: Black Jedis and White Jedis, and the Secondary RHC: Red Jedis.
Cavaliers Ruling House: This ruling house is composed of Temple Schools. Itincludes the Primary RHC: Cavaliers Prim.
Spartans Ruling House: This ruling house is composed of Avi-Cenna Schools. It includes the Primary RHC: Spartans Prim and the Secondary RHC: Spartans Sec.
Knights Ruling House: This ruling house is composed of Chrisland Schools and only consists of the Primary RHC: Green Knights.
The POTR Academy is for students from different schools, bringing together diverse talents and fostering a strong community. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive rugby education that focuses on both athletic and personal development.
The curriculum is built around key contact and tactical skills, including: Tackling, Mauling, Rucking, Line-outs, Scrummaging
Join us for this exciting rugby tour to the Cotswolds and give your child the opportunity to develop their skills, make lasting friendships, and create unforgettable memories.
For more information or to sign up, please reach out to your school