Rugby League Formats Revamped for School Games Programme
The Rugby Football League (RFL) has announced significant updates to its school sports programs, aligning with the Youth Sport Trust’s national School Games initiative. These changes, implemented on February 25, 2026, prioritize inclusivity and skill development for young players at both primary and secondary school levels.
School Games Programme Overview
The School Games programme, funded by Sport England and delivered by the Youth Sport Trust, aims to provide young people with opportunities for regular physical activity. It brings together Active Partnerships, National Governing Bodies and School Games Organisers (SGOs) to deliver high-quality school sport and competition, emphasizing achieving 60 active minutes a day for young participants. RFL Announcement
Primary School Focus: Introducing TryLeague
A key update centers on primary school rugby league with the introduction of ‘TryLeague’. This new format shifts away from traditional competitive structures, prioritizing festival-style activity and fun-based participation. The RFL intends for TryLeague to foster core thinking skills and fundamental movement skills, building confidence and competence in young athletes. News Directory 3
The TryLeague format is designed to encourage teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving, whereas upholding the core values associated with rugby league. The emphasis is on creating a positive and engaging experience for all children, regardless of skill level or prior experience. RFL Announcement
Expanding Options for Secondary Schools
For secondary school students, the RFL is broadening the range of available rugby league formats. Alongside established traditional formats, schools can now implement structured Touch and Tag Rugby League competitions. These formats provide inclusive and accessible playing opportunities that cater to varying ability levels and experiences. RFL Announcement
Youth Sport Trust Support
The Youth Sport Trust is the UK’s leading charity improving young people’s education and development through sport and play. Their programmes have demonstrated positive impacts, with 74% of practitioners reporting improvements in young people’s engagement at school, and 75% of participants reporting improved resilience and happiness. Youth Sport Trust
RFL and Youth Sport Trust Partnership
Andrea Murray, RFL National Development Manager, commented: “We’re delighted to launch our new Primary and Secondary School Games formats in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust. These refreshed offers place enjoyment, inclusion and skill development at the centre of the experience. By introducing festival-style activity in Primary schools and expanding competitive formats in Secondary schools, we’re creating more opportunities than ever for young people to engage with Rugby League in a way that suits them.” RFL Announcement
With these new formats now live, schools across the country can look forward to an exciting new chapter for Rugby League within the School Games programme.