YOUNGSTERS in Crewe and Nantwich at risk of dropping out of school are to be given help tackling their problems, thanks to an exciting new partnership.
The link-up between schools, The Prince's Trust, financial services company Zurich and Premiership rugby clubs will see personal development programmes offered to 14 to 16-year-olds at risk of exclusion, truancy or underachievement.
Ruskin Sports College and Malbank School are looking forward to benefiting from the support of Sale Sharks in the scheme. Players will visit to talk with students about topics such as teamwork and facing challenges, there will be stadium visits which will include team-building exercises from coaches and tag tournaments.
The partnership has already been successfully piloted by London Wasps, Leicester Tigers and Newcastle Falcons and is now being rolled out to Sale and Bath.
Sale Sharks winger Mark Cueto, a former Sandbach Rugby Club player, was joint top scorer in the Premiership last season.
He said: 'It's fantastic that Zurich, Sale Sharks and The Prince's Trust are working together to help young people. Sport can play an important role in teaching skills that are important in everyday life, such as being tolerant, motivated and getting on with others in your team. With the right support, we can all take pride in our achievements, whether they are in the classroom or on a playing field.'
Chris Staples, Zurich's Director of Community Affairs, added: 'This innovative partnership gives vulnerable teenagers a second chance.
'Working with local schools in Crewe and Nantwich, The Prince's Trust and Premiership rugby teams, we hope that, together, we will create a real and long-lasting impact on many young lives.'
