The English Prem leaders hope the link-up will help talented youngsters make it big in rugby union.
Northampton Saints have launched a partnership with a sports academy to help make it easier for youngsters hoping to make a career in rugby.
The current leaders of the English Rugby Union Prem are sharing their coaching curriculum and philosophy with Sigma Sixth Academy, which is based at the Philip Morant School and College in Colchester.
It is the first time the side has collaborated with a state school in the east of its catchment area, the Saints said.
"This partnership gives talented players the chance to develop their skills in a performance-led environment while still receiving an excellent education," said Saints academy head Mark Hopley.
"Rugby must be accessible to every young person in our region, regardless of background, and strengthening opportunities in the state sector is a huge priority for us.
"It shows young athletes that a state school can absolutely be a pathway into elite rugby."
The club already has a similar partnership with Moulton College in Northamptonshire.
Sigma Sixth players, who are studying A-levels or BTECs at the academy, will also compete in the RFU's ACE Boys League from the next academic year.
That will allow students to play at a more competitive level and give them more game time, according to the club.
School opportunities
Philip Morant School and College head teacher Stephanie Neill said: "We want our students to be the best they can be, both academically and in sport, and this partnership creates a fantastic pathway for their development in rugby."
She added it would provide pupils throughout the whole school with the chance to get involved with rugby, and staff would benefit from training opportunities.
The sports academy has 250 students, and its rugby director said he hoped the new initiative would lead it to attract "young talent locally".
Peter Le Marquand, who is also a Saints Foundation Phase coach, added: "It's encouraging that a professional club sees the value in our programme."
The academy will be running taster sessions, and Sigma Sixth will be at Colchester Rugby Club to talk about the scheme on Saturday 24 January, from 11:00 GMT, before Saints' youth friendlies.
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