This academy is specifically designed for individuals aged 16 to 19, offering ambitious players an opportunity to participate in a full-time elite performance environment while pursuing their full-time education.
In partnership with Saracens, the programme provides a variety of educational options, including BTECs and A Levels, which run concurrently with the rugby programme, creating a comprehensive blend of performance training and academic study. Participants will receive support in their career progression as well as in their on-pitch performance, assisting them in achieving the highest level of success possible.
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Saracens Women provides exceptional coaching and performance support, fostering a nurturing environment for athletes to thrive and develop their skills. Some of the programme highlights include:
This section provides important information regarding residential accommodation, team details, and academic requirements to join the Saracens Women's Rugby Academy.
All players can apply to be part of the Full Time Academy Programme, however, we encourage players that have had a good rugby background and are in a County level Programme (PDG) or above. Please note, you must be offered a place to study at Oaklands College if you wish to be a part of the Academy.
For more information, please refer to the drop down sections.
The first step in applying to the Academy is attending our open day trials, where we use the following sessions to get to know you as players, and to see your development throughout the year.
We will progress each day to give you further exposure as to what life in the academy would be like.
Our next open day is on Wednesday 19th February, the link to sign up to this event can be found here
The Academy competes at the highest level of competition in the country, participating in the AOC Women’s Rugby Union Performance League.
Additionally, several players represent the Saracens Centre of Excellence, with some having progressed to represent the England TGD Group (England U18s).
Student accommodation at our St Albans Campus is available for those enrolled in specialised programmes such as land-based courses, apprenticeships, and sports academies. Our aim is to create a safe, supportive community that helps you transition smoothly away from home.
Amelia Macdougall
Amelia has been one of our most recent success stories, making her debut for England U18s in the 2023 Six Nations Festival and being awarded the AOC Sports Performer of the year.
Following leaving the Academy, Amelia was promoted to the
senior Saracens squad and has been a consistent player for
the team.
She is currently training with the England u20s squad,
and is undertaking a Sports and Exercise Science degree at the
University of Middlesex.
Chloe Flanagan
Chloe made her Saracens debut in the Allianz Cup in 2022.
Since then, she has featured in the Allianz Cup side that finished as runners-up in 2023, as well as being duel-registered with Old Albanians RFC.
Similar to that of Amelia, Chloe is also training with the England U20s squad as she seeks to gain international honours.
Please see below our notable alumni.
Saracens Senior Women
England U20s
Saracens Senior Women
England U20s
Saracens Senior Women
England U19s
Saracens Senior Women
England U18s
Niamh McHugh
Women’s U18 Pathway Lead
Niamh.Mchugh@oaklands.ac.uk
If you’re passionate about taking your athletic performance to the next level, Saracens Women's pathways is the perfect place to unlock your potential. Offering elite coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and tailored development pathways, we nurture talent across a wide range of sports.
Register your interest today.