Specialist Rugby Program  

Aims of Program

The Specialised Rugby Program at Thornlie Senior High School aims to develop each student’s skills, physical fitness, abilities, aspirations and values to the highest level possible within our school environment in order that they may realise their potential.

The development of personal values is strongly emphasised throughout the program. We aim to strengthen students’ self-esteem, optimism and commitment to personal fulfilment. Character building qualities such as sportsmanship, personal responsibility and self discipline are emphasised in every part of the course.

Structure of Program

Students enrolled in the Specialised Rugby Program will be given the opportunity to play for Thornlie Senior High School teams in the Rugby WA Secondary Schools competitions. They will also be offered the chance to represent the school in Inter School Rugby League, Touch Rugby and Flag Football competitions.

Rugby students will receive expert coaching from the Thornlie SHS staff, Rugby WA Development Officers, WARL Development Officers and guest coaches/speakers through practical and theoretical lessons. We have a very close relationship with many of the local clubs.

Students from Year 8 to 12 are catered for both academically and vocationally. Middle School students will be offered the opportunity to achieve referee qualifications and coaching and sports medicine accreditation. As an official “EdRugby” school we can offer students access to the many resources available in the ARU’s National Education Program.  SeniorSchool students will be offered the opportunity to pursue studies in Sport and Recreation, achieving school and VET (Vocational Education and Training) qualifications to Certificate II level. They may also participate in Structured Workplace Training and Community Service in a sporting capacity.

RugbyAcademy – Students who demonstrate superior skills and abilities will be invited to join our Academy. The Academy offers additional opportunities for students to receive specialised skills, fitness and game skills tuition.

Leadership Program – Throughout the Rugby Program students will be given an opportunity to participate in our leadership program and will learn and apply leadership skills in a formal capacity within the Rugby course.

Tours - In recent years Thornlie SHS has competed in the Gold Coast Rugby Carnival in Queensland. Our success at this carnival has resulted in a commitment to continue such tours for both Middle and Senior School squads.

Selection Criteria

Selection will be based on physical skill levels and academic attitude.

Successful applicants will be required to meet the following expectations:

• Participate consistently and to the best of their ability throughout their involvement in the Rugby program.
• Maintain an excellent school attendance and behaviour record.
• Develop a positive attitude towards the school’s ethos.
• Maintain a positive attitude towards academic and vocation studies.

Scholarships

 Rugby scholarships are available to selected students at Year 8, 9 and 10 levels. The scholarships cover the applicable subject tuition fee and a number of the associated playing and equipment costs. Scholarships are offered annually and reviewed at the end of each year.