Allan Jacobsen

Allan Jacobsen, a former international player with Scotland boasting an impressive 65 caps, is a seasoned veteran who graced the Rugby World Cups of 2003, 2007, and 2011. Throughout his illustrious career, Jacobsen remained loyal to Edinburgh, his professional home team. In November 2010, Jacobsen achieved a significant milestone, becoming the 29th Scot to reach 50 caps during Scotland's 19-16 victory against Samoa at Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen. His exceptional scrummaging skills were praised by Scotland's scrum coach, Massimo Cuttitta, particularly during the 2010 summer tour in Argentina. Allan Jacobsen's enduring dedication to the sport exemplifies his impact and influence on Scottish rugby.

“School of Hard Knocks’ commitment to using sport to inspire and uplift young people aligns perfectly with my own values. I have seen how rugby can teach resilience, teamwork, and discipline - skills that are invaluable both on and off the field. I am excited to support SOHK in making a lasting impact on the lives of young people.”

Latest

When Confidence Clicks: Jane’s Journey

SOHK participant Jane lives with mild hearing loss in both ears. A setting like SOHK made her nervous at first - but then Jane discovered her own passion, power, and persistence - and it's paying off every single session.
To The Nines: Interview with Rhea Clarke

We interview Scottish Rugby player Rhea Clarke about what rugby has meant to her and about what charities like School Of Hard Knocks (SOHK) mean for young players today.
A SLICE OF SIX NATIONS - SCOTLAND v IRELAND

Join the School of Hard Knocks charity for a thrilling Six Nations screening of the Scotland v Ireland Women's match, a complimentary welcome drink - beer, prosecco, or soft drink - plus free-flowing pizza throughout the game. All proceeds go to SOHK's life-changing work!
Testing Rugby Skills at Scotland Mini-Festival

In March 2026, we held our Scotland East and West Mini Rugby Tournaments - events which help our students put what they've learned into practice.

Hollie Davidson

Hollie Davidson began playing competitive rugby when she was 14, playing at scrum-half for Murrayfield Wanderers. In 2015 Davidson joined the SRU's refereeing course becoming the Scottish Rugby Union’s first full time professional women's referee in 2017. Hollie made history in 2022 when she became the first female to officiate a men’s Six Nations team in a test match when Portugal took on Italy.
Johnny Fisher

"As a professional athlete, I understand the importance of the work School of Hard Knocks does in shaping the lives of young people and helping their development. Having played rugby throughout my childhood and to a decent level at university, I can appreciate the core skills it teaches you and I would encourage everyone to get involved. I'm delighted to be associated with School of Hard Knocks and I look forward to supporting them as an ambassador"
Fraser Brown

Fraser Brown is a Scotland international rugby union player who has represented his country at many levels. He has been capped 61 times by Scotland and played at the 2015 and 2019 World Cups scoring five international tries. Fraser made 141 appearances for Glasgow, the last of which was the 2023 European Challenge Cup final.
Richie Vernon

Richie Vernon is a former Scotland international rugby union player known for his versatility on the field. He began his rugby career with Dundee HSFP and later played for various clubs including Glasgow Warriors, Sale Sharks, and London Scottish. Richie also represented Scotland in Rugby Sevens from 2005 to 2008 before earning his first cap for the national team in 2009. Throughout his career, he demonstrated resilience and adaptability, retiring from the professional game in 2019.
Rachel McLachlan

Hailing from Edinburgh, Rachel McLachlan is a rising star in Scottish rugby. Remarkably, within nine months of picking up rugby, she was invited to join the national team. Rachel made her debut in the 7s format against Poland and Russia after only a brief stint playing rugby at Glasgow Caledonian University. In the 2021 Women's Six Nations Championship, Scotland captain Rachel Malcolm spoke highly of McLachlan, saying, 'she gives it absolutely everything'.
Tori Sellors

"I'm delighted to be a part of School of Hard Knocks as an ambassador, bringing together my lifelong love for rugby and a commitment to transforming young lives. The rugby pitch has been my second home, and now, through this partnership, we have the chance to make it a home for young people facing complex challenges.”
Nick De Luca

Nick De Luca is a Scottish former professional rugby union player. Hailing from Dumfries, Nick made significant contributions during his club career, notably with Edinburgh and Border Reivers. His standout moments include memorable tries against Toulouse in the Heineken Cup and a remarkable performance in a dramatic win against Ospreys. Nick's dynamic play and versatility have left a lasting impact on Scottish rugby.
Rhona Lloyd

As a professional rugby player with Scotland Women 15s and Great Britain 7s, Rhona Lloyd has a deep commitment to using rugby as a catalyst for positive change. Before the women's game turned professional, Rhona was studying at the University of Edinburgh while working as a facilitator and rugby coach with School of Hard Knocks. This experience gave her firsthand insight into the profound impact of rugby on people's wellbeing and future prospects.
Helen Nelson

Helen Nelson is a Scottish rugby union player and the current vice-captain of the national team. She represents PWR side Loughborough Lightning at the club level. With 53 caps for Scotland, Helen led the team to victory as captain in the 2021 Women’s Six Nations match against Wales. She also captained the Scotland Rugby Union Sevens team from 2018 to 2022.

About Us

SOHK's mission is to empower children to realise their full potential. We envision is a society where every young person has an equal opportunity to succeed.
SOHK Schools Programme

The SOHK Schools Programme combines rugby sessions, 1-2-1 mentoring, and group discussions delivered by a consistent team of experts dedicated to supporting a young person's growth and potential.
Ken Cowen - Founder & CEO
Our History

School Of Hard Knocks (SOHK) was set up by Ken Cowen in 2009 and established as a not-for-profit organisation in 2012. Initially set up to help individuals find and sustain employment, SOHK has developed significantly over the years in order to adapt to society's ever-changing landscape.
Become a regular giver

Become a Friend of SOHK and help change lives for the better. We support empower vulnerable children so they can create a positive future, but we need your support. Please donate just £3 per month and help us change the game.
Donate today

SOHK delivers life-changing schools programmes for secondary school-age young people across the UK. By fostering an environment of genuine acceptance, and physical activity, group and one-to-one support sessions, SOHK enables participants to find meaning and purpose in life. As a charity, we depend on generous donations to support our mission and extend our reach to young people whose lives can be transformed by our programmes.
Rosa Innes - Head of Partnerships, Scotland
Policies and reports

Policies and reports
Our Psychology

All of School Of Hard Knocks (SOHK) activities are underpinned by 'the 3Cs'. This framework was originally developed by Dr. Chris Harwood and Dr. Karl Steptoe as a coaching methodology for youth football that incorporated life skills development. Over the years, School Of Hard Knocks has drawn on this evidence-based practice and applied it to SOHK Programmes. The 3Cs seek to improve an individual's confidence, control, and connection.
Impact and statistics