More than 100 students take part in annual SEND Rugby Festival at Hopwood Hall

More than 100 students from across Greater Manchester attended the annual SEND Rugby Festival at Hopwood Hall College and University Centre.

Seven schools took part in the event, which focused on inclusive participation, physical activity and enjoyment through rugby.

The festival brought together students from across the region for a day of rugby activities and social interaction in a supportive environment designed to encourage participation for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Organisers said the event highlighted the role sport can play in bringing young people together, helping them build confidence, develop skills and enjoy positive shared experiences.

The festival was delivered in partnership with Redwood School, Access Sport and students from the Sport and UPS programmes, whose involvement helped support activities throughout the day.

Participants took part in a range of rugby based games and exercises, demonstrating teamwork, determination and sportsmanship across the event.

Alongside the sporting activities, the festival provided an opportunity for schools to strengthen links with local rugby programmes. Following the event, several schools expressed interest in becoming involved with the club's Tryz programme, which aims to increase opportunities for young people to engage with rugby league.

Organisers said they were proud to see more than 100 young people actively involved throughout the day and praised the contribution of schools, staff, volunteers, partners and students who helped make the festival possible.

The club said it remains committed to creating inclusive sporting opportunities for young people of all abilities and hopes to build on the success of the event in future years.