The dangers of school rugby are in the news again. Influential medics and academics think the tackle is too dangerous for children. The game is under unprecedented pressure.

However, the fact that there are risks associated with playing rugby is not news. Schools have always recognised this, and concern has never been greater. Most rugby playing schools now have industry leading medical provision surrounding the game, and give considerable attention to injury prevention. The RFU has responded to the growing awareness of the dangers of concussion with guidance and training that is more rigorous than ever....

The fact that there are some risks associated with playing rugby is not news. Schools have always recognised this, and concern for this has never been greater. Most rugby playing schools now have industry leading medical provision surrounding the game, and give considerable attention to injury prevention. The RFU has responded to the growing awareness of the dangers of concussion with guidance and training that is more rigorous than ever.

It is possible that they game could be made safer by some amendments to existing laws, and further dispensations for the youth game. This is being investigated based on...

Many benefits and advantages are routinely claimed for participation in sports, games and physical activities. They are the justification for the enormous commitment of resources to these activities, both in schools and in wider society. Whilst the physiological impacts of exercise are an indisputable matter of science, the claims for the advantages of competition, team games and personal development are more variable. Are positive outcomes inevitable, or is it possible that participation in school sport might actually have a negative impact on some pupils?

There is significant evidence that a poor experience of school games can lead...