The nationally acclaimed educational initiative, “Playing for Success”, is a partnership between the DCSF, Local Education Authorities and a broad range of sports clubs, in our case Northampton Saints Rugby Football Club. The Playing for Success programme provides out of hours study support provision for 10 to 14 year old children who would benefit from a little extra help to get back up to speed with literacy, numeracy and ICT- the foundations stones for their education. Tens of thousands of children have come through centre’s doors with improved skills, motivation and self- esteem, giving them a real boost and, in some cases, a new start on which they can build on back at school.

Research on on study support has shown that good quality study support opportunities provide an excellent, cost effective means of raising standards and improving levels of pupil motivation. Where Study Support Centres are in place, they are extremely popular with pupils, parents and schools. The Saints Study Centre at Northampton Saints Rugby Football Club is no exception!