Ukrainian Brighton College pupils meet England rugby squad

Two Ukrainian boys – who joined Brighton College on its refugee scholar programme back in September – were able to meet the England rugby squad this week. The team has been taking part in a training camp held at the College and the two boys were asked to address the team.

David McHugh / Brighton Pictures for Brighton College

March 3, 2023

Two Ukrainian boys – who joined Brighton College on its refugee scholar programme back in September – were able to meet the England rugby squad this week.

The squad has been taking part in a training camp held at Brighton College and the two boys were asked to address Steve Borthwick and his players.

The two boys fled Ukraine to England and had never heard of rugby until they joined the school.

"It has been a very difficult and sad time for me but the warmth of the English people has been wonderful," said one of the boys.

"I am so grateful. And it was so wonderful today to get such a warm response from England's incredible rugby team."

Brighton College admitted 21 Ukrainian refugee children on full scholarships and has promised to keep them at the College for 'as long as it takes' according to Head Master Richard Cairns.

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Brighton College is an independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3 to 18 located in the heart of Brighton. The school puts a particular emphasis on the importance of kindness and aims to 'celebrate the uniqueness of every individual, whether that person be shy or confident, sporty, scholarly or both.' The school aims to instil a love of learning through inspirational teachers offering 'passion, commitment and kindness'. Find out more about Brighton College.

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