Bradford Grammar School old boy Jacob Rowan went back to his school last week to pass on strength and conditioning tips to the current senior rugby players.

Since leaving Bradford Grammar in 2008, Jacob, who was brought up in Cononley, has completed a first- class degree in chemistry at Leeds University, as well as captaining England to the Under-20 Rugby World Cup.

Now the club captain at Leeds Carnegie, he agreed to share some of the expertise he has gained in the professional game with the school’s next generation of rugby talent.

Jacob was very impressed with the recent renovations to the BGS strength and condition facilities and was keen to impress on the pupils that the modern top-level game demands very high physical standards.

He pointed out that in an average week he will spend as much time in the gymnasium as on the rugby pitch.

The former Bradford Grammar school head boy was also keen to remind the pupils of the hard work needed to balance rugby performance with academic excellence – something he has clearly upheld since leaving the school.

Rugby coach Mr Oakes was grateful to Jacob, saying: “I’m sure he will act as an inspiration to the first-XV players as preparations for next season begin after half-term.”

Meanwhile, Settle’s Jack Walker, fellow Prince Henry’s Grammar School pupil Lewis Boyce and former student Paul Hill had the unique opportunity to train with the England squad last Thursday at St George’s Park, home of the Football Association.

They all played for the England team, alongside members of the current Six Nations squad in some conditioned games against Loughborough Students, running through a variety of different attacking situations.

The session finished with England forwards coach Graham Rowntree, working with them on some scrum set-ups and front-row play.