Teenagers in Tipton have been getting a masterclass in rugby from Austin Healey.

The 38-year-old, who played for England and Leicester Tigers, was at RSA Academy along with three players from Worcestershire Warriors.

They were teaching students basic skills including how to pass, tackle and evade a tackle. The sessions yesterday were for students aged 11 to 14.

The visit was arranged by sports teacher John Anderson, who has a contact at the digital sports channel ESPN.

The school’s Lesley James said: “It went incredibly well. The kids had a brilliant time and have benefited from some top quality coaching.”

Staff at the Bilston Road  school are now trying to organise for Healey, who also took part in the sixth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2008, to return to the school in the summer.

She added: “The academy only started to teach rugby last year but it is becoming more popular.”