YOUNGSTERS at a Chipping Norton school learned all about how to make tries and take conversions when Oxford University's Varsity Blues team visited recently.

Kingham Hill boys’ rugby team were delighted the university's top rugby team took up an invitation to join them at the school for training.

The boys had the opportunity to watch and take part in a training camp, which helped improve their skills by learning from experienced players.

The university's top rugby team organised a number of technically challenging drills, that improved conditioning and core rugby skills.

Kingham Hill biology teacher, and Oxford University rugby player, Basil Strang - who successfully led the university's second rugby team to victory over Cambridge last year - was also thrilled to be able to join his team and help the school’s pupils develop their skills in the process.

“The preseason day at Kingham was a fantastic day for the Kingham and Oxford boys alike," Mr Strang said.

"It proved a valuable learning opportunity for the Kingham boys as they tested themselves against some top quality players at Oxford University.

"I hope it is a relationship that will continue to flourish. A link between the rugby teams stands as testament to the direction rugby is going here at Kingham Hill. I am excited for what the future holds.”

Chris Ashton, Kingham school's head of rugby, added: "The boys benefited across the board.

"It was an inspiring experience for the boys.”

Oxford Varsity team captain, Fergus Taylor, said: “It was good to be able to travel outside of central Oxford to such a scenic place to train.

"The Kingham Hill boys were very engaged throughout the whole day, there are a number of sharp players in the squad.”