Oundle School appoints former England rugby star as new director of sport

Grewcock, who won 69 England caps and was selected for two British Lions tours, comes to Oundle from Bath Rugby Academy where he has been academy director since 2011. 

Prior to joining the education sector, Mr Grewcock enjoyed a distinguished career as a professional rugby player with Coventry, Saracens and then Bath.

He said: “I am looking forward to the new challenge that Oundle has to offer with its well-established programme and considerable investment in facilities.

“I will be ensuring that sport continues to be an exciting, enjoyable and vital part of the balanced programme.

“I have had an unbelievable time at Bath – both as a player and in the role of academy director – and have learned a great deal over the past five years, worked with some fantastic people, and it is with a heavy heart that I am leaving.

“I feel strongly about helping develop young athletes, and am thankful that I have the opportunity to continue doing this at Oundle.”

Mr Grewcock will take up the position of director of sport at Oundle as the school progresses to the next stage with its Sports MasterPlan.

The plan incorporates the building of a new sports centre housing a 50m swimming pool, an eight-court sports hall, a high-quality fitness suite and dance studios.

The current athletics track will be relocated and there will also be the installation of two additional astroturf pitches to make four in total, 10 natural grass and 10 artificial cricket nets, 12 netball and 12 tennis courts.

Head Sarah Kerr-Dineen said: “We are delighted that Mr Grewcock and his family will be joining the Oundle community in September. 

“He brings with him a wealth of experience of sport and a profound commitment to the place of sport in the education of all children and young people.”

In undertaking the role, Mr Grewcock will lead in all aspects of both traditional team and individual sports, ensuring that Oundle pupils develop healthy lifestyles and that they succeed personally in their chosen sporting direction.

Working alongside the director of sport as assistant director of sport and head of PE will be Richard Finch.

Mr Finch is currently director of sport at Harrow International in Hong Kong, and was previously head of physical education at St Benedict’s Ealing.

Tarquin McDonald, Bath Rugby managing director, said: “Danny has brought an incredible amount to the development of our academy system, making sure that the young talent in our catchment area is not only helped on the field, but also off it.

“It goes without saying what an integral character he has been to the club over his many years here.

“We wish him all the very best with this new chapter in his career, and look forward to welcoming him back to the Rec in the future.”