Project 500, a targeted girls’ rugby programme, is delivering strong impact by increasing participation, engagement and progression opportunities across local schools.
At the midpoint of the academic year, the programme has combined school-based curriculum delivery with large-scale rugby festivals to support both first-time involvement and sustained participation.
Since September, the project – which has seen Bedford Blues Foundation join forces with Maddy’s Mark – has engaged 599 female participants through curriculum sessions and festivals. This early success has already seen nine girls progress into Junior Blues community rugby programmes, demonstrating the programme’s ability to turn initial interest into ongoing involvement.
Within Project 500 schools, participation and repeat engagement has been particularly strong. Edward Peake School has engaged 145 girls, generating 870 attendances, with notable involvement from girls with additional needs, highlighting the inclusive nature of the programme and the values rugby has.
Marston Vale School has engaged 55 participants across 270 attendances, while Linslade School has recorded 79 participants and 560 attendances, reflecting high levels of sustained engagement.
Girls’ rugby festivals have been central to inspiring further interest in the sport. The Year 9 & 10 T1 Festival welcomed 150 participants, with several players requesting information about local rugby clubs following their experience. The Year 7 & 8 T1 Festival engaged 160 participants, providing a positive introduction to rugby and encouraging continued participation through school and community pathways, including preparation for the upcoming contact festival.
Project 500 is also strengthening partnerships with local schools.
Castle Newnham and St Thomas More, which have already received girls’ rugby delivery earlier this year, have expressed strong interest in formally joining the programme. Further expansion is planned, with Arnold Academy and Bedford Free School set to be included in future delivery.
Looking ahead, key milestones include a contact rugby tournament on March 20, supported by the School Games Organiser, and a matchday celebration on May 2 as Bedford Blues host Chinnor at Goldington Road, bringing together all participating schools and reinforcing the programme’s commitment to growing girls’ rugby.
“We want every girl in Bedford to feel like rugby is a sport that welcomes her,” said Simon Lawrence, Founder of Maddy’s Mark.
“Whether she’s chasing big dreams or just looking for something fun, rugby offers a space to grow stronger physically and mentally.”
Founded in memory of Maddy Lawrence, a passionate young rugby player who inspired everyone around her, Maddy’s Mark champions the values of kindness, courage, and community.
Partnering with Bedford Blues Foundation, whose deep roots in youth sport and education have changed lives across the borough, ensures Project 500 has both heart and structure.
“With the recent Women’s World Cup victory for England, this is a fantastic time to get involved in rugby and hopefully be inspired by the teams on the pitch,” said project lead Edd Rhodes, Senior Rugby Development Officer at Blues Foundation. “Project 500 is about giving girls the tools and the confidence to take on challenges, support each other, and believe in themselves.”
Find out more about about the Blues Foundation at the website here or find more about the Bedford Blues through the link here.
