Acres across Merchant Taylors' grounds

Rugby

Rugby at Merchant Taylors’ combines inclusivity, ambition, and tradition, giving every boy the chance to discover the sport, develop his skills, and be part of a team culture that builds friendships and memories for life.

"Rugby at Merchant Taylors' is built on community, opportunity and development. From Year 7 through to the 1st XV, we aim to support every boy at each stage of his journey, helping him grow in confidence, resilience and character. Whether through playing, coaching, refereeing or supporting the game, rugby offers opportunities for all boys to contribute, develop a lifelong love of the sport and become part of a community founded on strong values and shared experiences."

Scott de Weymarn

Director of Rugby

Outstanding Experiences On and Off the Pitch

With 21 teams across all age groups, rugby is a major sport for all at Merchant Taylors’. Every pupil receives regular training from experienced coaches and the opportunity to represent the School, whether they are new to the sport or striving for elite performance.

Our rugby programme is built around shared experiences that bring players together. Highlights include Rugby Week, when every boy plays a fixture under floodlights, culminating in the much-anticipated 1st XV Friday Night Lights match. The week concludes with the Scrummers’ Ball – the flagship event for our Scrummers parent support group.

We also host Taylors’ Tens, our own unique version of the game, inspired by OMT British & Irish Lions players. This annual competition includes both contact and non-contact formats, ensuring every boy can find the version of rugby that suits them.

Player Development and Pathways

At senior level, we inspire our players with an annual theme, currently Bunbu Ryodo – “the pen and the sword, in accord” – reflecting the balance between academic and sporting excellence.

We support our most ambitious players through strong links with London Irish and other Academies, Developing Player Programmes, and county rugby. Tailored individual support includes 1-to-1 coaching, strength and conditioning, and physiotherapy, helping players reach their full potential.

Boys also have the opportunity to lead, coach, and referee, passing on their knowledge to younger year groups and developing lifelong skills in leadership and communication.

Tours and Community Links

Rugby tours are a key part of the Taylors’ experience, with regular domestic and international trips that immerse boys in different rugby and cultural traditions. We also maintain close relationships with local clubs such as Ealing Trailfinders, Chess Valley, Hampstead, Ruislip, and Harrow, strengthening our rugby community beyond the school.