Exeter Chiefs and Maddy’s Mark Score Big with Cranbrook Education Campus Pupils
This term, Cranbrook Education Campus (CEC) was abuzz with excitement as ten lucky pupils had the opportunity of a lifetime to join Exeter Chiefs and Maddy’s Mark for an unforgettable day of rugby training. The event, filled with skill development, inspiration, and plenty of fun, left lasting memories for everyone involved.
Maddy’s Mark, a charity dedicated to supporting the mental well-being of girls and young women, focuses on building resilience, confidence, and camaraderie through rugby. By funding school programmes and partnering with clubs like Exeter Chiefs, Maddy’s Mark ensures that young women have access to rugby, empowering them both on and off the field.
The special day kicked off with an exclusive, one-on-one training session led by an Exeter Chiefs coach, providing the pupils with the chance to develop their rugby skills while gaining valuable insights into the game. The session wasn’t just about sport—it also gave the pupils a chance to build their confidence, learn about perseverance, and experience the power of teamwork. Despite some rain, the enthusiasm of the pupils and the professional coaches kept spirits high, making it a truly memorable experience.
The event was part of a wider initiative that had already been benefiting CEC pupils throughout the term. Last term, the school worked closely with Exeter Chiefs and the Maddy’s Mark programme, running six weeks of rugby sessions every Friday for girls across different year groups. This initiative aimed to empower girls while also fostering important conversations around mental health. Throughout the programme, participants gained not only rugby skills but also tools for building resilience and mental well-being.
The school's partnership with the programme culminated in the rugby day at Exeter Athletics Training Ground, where the pupils celebrated their progress alongside other schools. This day was a fantastic opportunity to showcase how sport can help build confidence, enhance mental health, and create lasting memories.
Maddy’s Mark continues to honour the memory of Maddy Lawrence, a vibrant young woman whose legacy lives on in this empowering programme. Maddy’s vision of promoting strength and well-being through rugby resonates deeply with CEC students and the wider community.
The school, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, ensures that its pupils have access to a wide range of extracurricular opportunities that enhance their personal development. The partnership with Exeter Chiefs and Maddy’s Mark perfectly aligns with the school's commitment to providing meaningful experiences that promote cultural capital, well-being, and lifelong learning.
Sam Buckingham, All-through lead for PE, at Cranbrook Education Campus said: "This was such a fantastic day for our pupils, despite the weather! Exeter Chiefs and Maddy’s Mark have given our pupils an experience they’ll never forget. Not only did they get to develop their rugby skills, but they were also inspired by the teamwork and sportsmanship that make rugby so special. It’s days like these that remind us of the incredible power of sport in shaping our pupils’ futures and encouraging them to reach for their goals."
Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: "We are thrilled to see pupils at Cranbrook Education Campus experiencing such an enriching day with Exeter Chiefs and Maddy’s Mark. It’s opportunities like these that truly highlight the positive impact of sport on young people’s lives, helping to build resilience, confidence, and a sense of community. We are grateful to both Exeter Chiefs and Maddy’s Mark for their commitment to inspiring the next generation of athletes.”
