A rugby academy in Canterbury aims to create a level playing field for students by breaking down socioeconomic barriers.

The ACE Academy opens on Wednesday and is a joint project between Canterbury Rugby Club and the city’s Archbishop’s School.

The program offers 16 to 19 year olds professional level rugby training alongside their studies, as well as qualifications as rugby coaches and referees.

England international Alex Lowzoski and former All Blacks full-back John Gallagher will open the academy.

As part of the Rugby Football Pathway Program, students receive two hours of rugby training four times a week.

The course will be led by Canterbury’s Head of Player Pathway Nathan Morris, along with coaches Matt Corker, Alice Hayward and Ella Jenkins.

Mr Morris said: “We want to provide high quality coaching and create opportunities for young people in East Kent.”

“We were very fortunate to have the great support of our sponsors, who also provide the students with work experience and career advice.”

From September 2024, senior students from Archbishop’s School will begin their education at the academy.

Headteacher David Elliott said: “The academy programme will further enhance our sporting provision at the school.”