Community Rugby introduced the Mini and Youth Seal of Approval accreditation programme as a method of examining, maintaining and improving the provision of rugby in the mini and youth section of a rugby club. Building upon current good practice, the accreditation aims to recognise the effort and achievement of those clubs that reach, maintain and improve on the required standard of a club committed to the provision of quality rugby union experiences for young players.

Community Rugby has worked with Sport England to integrate the Mini and Youth Seal of Approval accreditation with the Sport England Clubmark scheme to ensure that the safe, effective, child-friendly club standards are met. Any club awarded the Community Rugby Mini and Youth Seal of Approval will also have achieved Clubmark accreditation.

Accreditation process

Clubs applying for Mini and Youth Seal of Approval and for Clubmark accreditation will complete an evidence file to show that their programme meets the required criteria. Some clubs may be in a position to complete the assessment file immediately, others may require more time and support; Community Rugby is committed to support all clubs who are working towards accreditation.  For an excel worksheet detailing criteria and other supporting resources click here

Information for the evidence file will be used as the basis for an in-depth discussion between a club and a Rugby Development Officer (RDO) to ascertain development needs. A Development Plan will be produced by the club and ratified by the RDO and the Regional Rugby Development Manager. A template Development Plan is included within the programme, but clubs are encouraged to adapt/create their own plans to suit their needs. The club and RDO will then review the plan on an ongoing basis to assess the extent to which it has been implemented and the future development needs.

The award

The Mini and Youth Seal of Approval and the Sport England Clubmark accreditation scheme are based upon a 3 year rolling award system in which a club will be assessed on its continuing ability to provide a safe, effective, child-friendly club environment.

A club will qualify in the first year by the completion of the assessment file and the writing of a 3 Year Development Plan. By implementing the development plan, with an annual review, a club will continue to be accredited and ensure continuous improvement in provision for the young players at the club

The Award will be indicative of the quality of provision a club offers, and its commitment to the continued development of young rugby players. A club will receive certification to confirm accreditation, both from Community Rugby and Sport England.

The future

All clubs that have, or are planning to have, a mini and youth section should be working towards Mini and Youth Seal of Approval accreditation.  If you believe your club has the desire to provide a quality rugby experience for its young people, please contact your local Rugby Development Officer. RDO Contacts