It is with sadness that we announce that Aylward Academy teacher, Rob Collis, died suddenly at his home last Thursday.

Rob was a huge advocate of Rugby League within his school and was key to several of his students becoming Skolars players following the introduction of the sport to Aylward Academy in 2007. Although he moved from the PE department to Deputy Headteacher, it did not affect the support for his students in their sporting endeavours.

Community Manager, Paul Thorman reflected, “Rob was the first individual I met with regarding Aylward Academy playing Rugby League. His enthusiasm for getting the partnership going was boundless and the students’ were always his first priority. He leaves a wonderful legacy with numerous players having come to the club through his hard work and the school playing, and entering competitions continually at every year group. We have lost a Rugby League supporter, but above all, a very nice man.”

Everyone at London Skolars offers their deepest sympathies to Rob’s family and everyone at Aylward Academy at this very difficult time.