Saturday 27th February was a day to remember for 100 children who welcomed the players on the pitch before the RBS 6 Nations England v Ireland match at Twickenham Stadium.

The children were representing their schools as part of All Schools, an England Rugby initiative to get more state secondary schools playing rugby. Each of them had designed a winning shirt at the Canterbury Kit Design workshop held last year, and they got to wear their shirts to celebrate the occasion.

Commenting on the being part of the day, Ethan Robinson from Acklam Grange School said: “It was a brilliant experience, I feel very lucky to have been a part of it. Being part of the guard of honour and lining up on the pitch in our shirts in front of a huge crowd was something I’ll never forget.”

The day began with a presentation of their new rugby shirts and the students were introduced to Bath Rugby player and All Schools ambassador Dave Attwood. He shared his experiences of playing for his country and what putting on the England shirt means to him.

Dave Attwood, who also designed his own rugby shirt at one of the Canterbury kit design workshops, said: “It was great to meet the students and to listen to them talking about their experiences. This is a fantastic initiative and I am proud to be an ambassador of a programme aimed at giving youngsters the chance to play rugby.”

The day finished with the students lined up on the pitch as the players ran out of the tunnel. They each waved a St George’s flag as Laura Wright sang the national anthem, and headed to their seats to enjoy their match.

Chris Stephenson, CEO of Canterbury said: “This is our third year as Official Partner of the All Schools programme – something we are extremely proud to be part of. I know the students felt immense pride in wearing a shirt that they designed at such a huge game. Hopefully some special memories were made.”

Click here to watch the children and their moment of fame at Twickenham.