The BUSY Group and Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation have announced an exciting new partnership to deliver an innovative alternative provision esports school for young people at Gloucester Rugby’s iconic High Performance Centre at Kingsholm Stadium.
Opening in Autumn 2026, The BUSY School at Gloucester Rugby will offer a fresh approach for students who have become disengaged from mainstream education, combining accredited learning, personal development and esports qualifications within a unique high-performance sporting environment.
Designed to support young people across Gloucestershire who face barriers to education, the new provision will help students reconnect with learning, build essential life skills and develop the confidence to create sustainable futures.
The partnership comes at a critical time, with increasing numbers of young people across the UK becoming disengaged from education, employment and training. Through a blend of academic study, personal development and industry-recognised esports qualifications, students will gain the knowledge, confidence and practical experience needed to move into further education, employment or training.
Rhys Morris, Managing Director of The BUSY Group UK & Europe, said:
“We’re seeing growing numbers of young people who are struggling to see a pathway forward. This provision is a direct response to that challenge, helping young people build sustainable futures and realise their potential.”
Esports will be used as a powerful engagement tool, helping students develop highly transferable skills including teamwork, communication, numeracy, problem-solving and business awareness. While the qualifications can open doors within the rapidly growing esports industry, they also equip students with capabilities that are valued across a broad range of careers and industries.
The announcement follows more than a year of collaboration between The BUSY Group and Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation, built on a shared commitment to creating better outcomes for young people across Gloucestershire.
Peter House, Vice Chair and Trustee of Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation, said:
“Traditional education models do not work for every young person. Increasing numbers of students are becoming disengaged from mainstream education and require alternative routes to succeed. We believe we have a responsibility to support initiatives that give those young people the opportunities and support they deserve.”
House added that esports offers an exciting and relevant pathway into a growing range of careers, including technology, digital media and wider computer-based industries.
Located within Gloucester Rugby’s High Performance Centre, the new provision will immerse students in an environment that reflects ambition, teamwork and personal growth, reinforcing the values that underpin both organisations’ commitment to young people.
Lee Aitken, Global Chief Operating Officer of The BUSY Group, said the partnership reflects a strong alignment of purpose between the two organisations.
“We are united by a shared commitment to helping young people engage with their potential, achieve success and create brighter futures. By bringing together our strengths and expertise, we can make a meaningful difference to young people, families and communities across Gloucestershire.”
Together, The BUSY Group and Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation believe the programme will create meaningful opportunities for young people who may otherwise be at risk of falling behind, helping them build confidence, strengthen employability skills and take positive steps towards their futures.
Heyma Holmes, Chair of Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation, said:
“We are proud to be part of a partnership that puts young people first. Together, we can create opportunities for those who need them most and help ensure every young person has the chance to thrive.”
Stay informed
Local authorities, schools, potential student referrers and other stakeholders can request to join the school’s mailing list here:
Join The BUSY School at Gloucester Rugby’s mailing list – Fill in form
About Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation
Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation is the official charity of Gloucester Rugby and Gloucester Hartpury, committed to powering positive change across the community. Through education, wellbeing and opportunity, the Foundation helps people find confidence, connection and a brighter way ahead.
Its work is delivered through three core pillars:
- 4ED Foundation – supporting those affected by motor neurone disease.
- The Way Ahead – empowering young people to shape their futures.
- ShedHead – improving physical and mental health.
Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation is registered with the Fundraising Regulator and is a registered charity (No. 1165303).
Learn More about The BUSY School at Gloucester Rugby
Learn More about Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation.
Rhys Morris, Managing Director of The BUSY Group UK & Europe, (L) with Peter House, Vice Chair and Trustee of Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation.