Extra Rugby Academy Taster Session Added at Cornwall College Camborne

Rugby Places Gone in Hours as Cornwall College Adds Extra Session

Strong early demand for the Cornwall College Rugby Academy has led to an additional taster session being added at the Camborne campus this April.

The academy, which launched at the end of 2025, has already attracted significant interest from young people across Cornwall and beyond. The first taster session, offering the chance to train with Cornish rugby legend and former Fiji international Josh Matavesi, filled all available places within hours of opening.

Extra April Date Confirmed

In response, Cornwall College has confirmed a second Rugby Academy taster session will take place on 16th April at Cornwall College Camborne, giving more prospective students the opportunity to experience academy-level coaching.

“The response to our first Rugby Academy taster session has been exceptional,” said Josh Matavesi, Head Coach of the Cornwall College Rugby Academy.
“To see it fully booked within hours shows young people want access to high-level rugby training that fits alongside their studies and supports their wider development.”

What the Taster Session Includes

The session will give attendees a practical insight into how the academy operates alongside full-time study. This includes a rugby training session on the college’s astro pitch, strength and conditioning work in the gym, and an overview of the academy structure. Information will also be provided about new sport courses starting at Cornwall College in September 2026.

Training will be delivered by Josh alongside Matt Shepherd, Head of Rugby at the academy, with support from Sam Coogan, Head of Athletic Development at the college. Together, the coaching team will introduce players to the standards, expectations and support available through the programme.

Part of a Wider Commitment to Sport

The Rugby Academy is designed to sit alongside students’ main college studies, with training timetabled around lessons to enhance the overall college experience. It also forms part of Cornwall College’s wider commitment to supporting local rugby, with strong community partnerships creating clear development pathways for young players.

The academy has close links with organisations including RFU, Camborne RFC and the Cornish Pirates, reinforcing its connection to the local game.

Luke Bazeley, Assistant Principal for General Further Education at Cornwall College, said: “The Rugby Academy adds real value to the student experience. It gives young people a clear reason to choose Cornwall College Camborne by offering something distinctive that complements their studies and supports progression.”

Places for the additional taster session on 16th April are expected to be in high demand. The event is aimed at young people interested in joining the Cornwall College Rugby Academy from September and studying at the Camborne campus.

Places can be booked via the Cornwall College website through the Rugby Academy Taster Event booking page.