The scheme, which launched in January, is based on a wide range of training schemes around the country and is designed to change the attitudes, enthusiasm and lives of more than 2,400 'at risk' youngsters currently in Pupil Referral Units (PRUs), meaning that they have been excluded from mainstream education.

Supported by Barclays Spaces for Sports, Enterprise Education Trust and children's charity Wooden Spoon, Fairplay will be completed in two phases - the first started in January 2010 and finishes in July 2010, the second starting in September 2010 and finishing in April 2011.

The project will deliver 120 intensive eight-week schemes across England, combining both physical rugby training and classroom learning including life, enterprise and financial skills.

James Cooper, a community rugby coach for the London boroughs of Islington, Camden and Hackney, believes the scheme has been a very positive experience for the young people participating.

"Since we started our three local schemes in January, we have seen numbers increase and trust has gradually built up," he said.

"I let them set their own rules, which they must stick to, and discuss what is acceptable behaviour, both towards coaches and each other. All this helps them feel they have a say in what is going on, and underpins some of the core values of rugby, such as respect and teamwork.

"All our groups have been great to work with and are demonstrating a real enjoyment and talent for the game."

Barclays Spaces for Sports, a major source of funding for the scheme, is a community sports programme using sport to revitalise disadvantaged communities in countries around the world where the Barclays bank operates.