TWO PUPILS at Barnard Castle School are getting closer to achieving their dreams of becoming professional rugby players.

Isaac Brace, 16 from Stockton, and Jack Hedley, 17 from Sheffield, are both to represent the North of England, after impressing in trials. They will be representing the largest region covering Yorkshire, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, Durham, Northumberland and Cumbria.

Isaac, who is involved with the Newcastle Falcons Academy, is looking forward to spending two days at Northampton as part of a Development weekend in front of the national selectors and as part of the preparation for a a week at Wellington College, where an U16 England team will be determined.

Jack has two preparation days with the North squad before they play in the Divisional Championship at Loughborough University when he will hopefully be able to impress the England Clubs and Schools selectors.

Both boys joined Barney on the back of its reputation in rugby and Isaac, although only in year 11, has been part of a very successful 1st XV this season, the highlight being reaching the semi-final of the Natwest Champions’ Trophy. Jack has been a prominent player in the first XV for the last two seasons, with tremendous attributes offering pace and power.

Isaac is set to take 11 GCSEs this summer and is predicted A*s and As in his subjects grades and is considering studying Ancient History, PE and Biology at A Level. Jack, meanwhile, has applied to study International Business Studies and has offers from Bath, Loughborough and Durham University.

Luke Monument, master in charge of rugby said: “To achieve the level of success both Jack and Isaac have achieved requires a great deal of commitment and the school, whilst supporting their rugby progress both in and outside of school, also help them to keep on top of their studies.

"Hence why students, such as these and ones before them, are able to achieve success on and off the rugby field.”