ENGLAND’S new Rugby captain may be expecting a baptism of fire when he steps out for their Six Nations opener against Scotland on Saturday – but he has already received a grilling from an ambitious Rugby student.
Avon Valley School pupil Ellie Colledge scored a major coup by securing an interview with hooker Dylan Hartley as part of her GCSE Media Studies coursework.
Ellie decided that she wanted to create a sport-based news show aimed at a teenage audience, and managed to set up the interview through a family connection.
Ellie said: “At the beginning of the interview I was a little nervous, but Dylan was really nice. I regularly watch Dylan’s team, Northampton Saints, and it was great to meet him and ask my questions face to face.”
Matthew Owen, Acting Faculty Leader, said: “This has been a great opportunity for Ellie to interview one of English rugby’s biggest stars and she took it with both hands. We’re incredibly grateful that Dylan took the time out of his busy schedule to do the interview. ”
Head teacher Alison Davies said: “Gaining first hand experience is vital in the learning process. Having chance to gain the experience by interviewing a top class sportsman is something Ellie will remember for a long time. ”
Hartley was named England’s new captain by new head coach Eddie Jones, replacing Chris Robshaw after a disappointing Rugby World Cup in which the team became the first host nation to fail to qualify for the knockout stages.
The 2016 Six Nations kicks off on Saturday (February 6) with France v Italy at 2.25pm and Scotland v England at 4.50pm. Defending champions Ireland host Wales on Sunday (February 7) at 3pm.
