Gloucester Academy career day at CAPITA

The RPA Player Development Programme is an integral part of The Rugby Players' Association's (the players union) message; it aims to provide guidance and support to its members and assist in their personal and professional development, encouraging them to further their education, qualifications and work experience alongside their rugby to enable them to make a smooth transition to another career upon their retirement.

Opportunities such as the one provided by CAPITA give the players a chance to explore their potential in a different environment and to develop a deeper understanding of the business world.

CAPITA provide innovative service solutions for a number of clients across the public and private sector and employs over 20,000 people. The company took the time to demonstrate to Gloucester players how different aspects of their business work as well as giving them the chance to show off their boardroom skills in a number of business simulation activities.

Gareth Evans, who is part of the Cherry and Whites Academy and attended the day was impressed with what CAPITA had to offer, "It was a very enjoyable day as well as being extremely informative and gave us a real insight into what exactly goes on inside businesses like CAPITA and Zurich.

"I'm sure I speak for all the boys who went when I say thank you to everyone involved and we look forward to similar events in the future."

Nigel Perveur, Managing Director of Special Operations for CAPITA certainly saw the value in having the Gloucester players spend the day with them, "I thought it was a superb day, great engagement and involvement from all the guys who took part in the business simulation exercise and we saw some tremendous results.

"There was a real buzz in the office at having the opportunity to show the boys what we could potentially offer them in terms of a future career."

An important part of the service provided by The RPA is educating players about life after rugby and what pathways may be available to them. The input of companies such as CAPITA can only help reinforce that message and add great value to The RPA Player Development Programme.

Josh Frape, RPA Player Development Manager for Gloucester summed up the success of the day, "It was a very valuable day for the young players, especially to get an insight into a different environment and one they may have to consider in the future.

"It is opportunities like these that players need to approach with an open mind as they never know what they may lead to. I would like to thank Nigel and his team for hosting the day and making it an extremely worthwhile experience."

If your business is interested in offering career days or if you'd like to find out more about The RPA Player Development Programme please contact Josh Frape, 07725 142065 or JFrape@therpa.co.uk or go to www.theRPA.co.uk