A FORMER Sedbergh School pupil has become the first girl from the school to represent England in a senior national sporting team.

Abbie Scott, 21, from Keswick, had her first senior England Women’s Rugby call up this weekend against Wales at Swansea.

She joined Sedbergh for her sixth form in 2009, moving from Keswick School.

Housemistress and then Head of Girls’ Games Hayley Christy said: “She instantly made an impact - she was really focused, academically as well, and always knew what she wanted. She went on to study History and Politics at University and she comes back to Sedbergh regularly, keeping us in touch with her plans.

"Although Abbie trained at rugby clubs, she did her strength and conditioning at school, and played netball in the first VII, working on training drills that are transferable between netball and rugby - passing skills in particular.

“To have been selected as a Deputy Head of House, as a new pupil, was particularly impressive - she was an excellent role model and had formidable presence, very self-assured."