Stockport Grammar School’s head boy and first-team rugby captain George Chatterton has signed a one-year contract to train and play with the England sevens squad.

The 18-year-old upper sixth pupil from Heaton Moor, Stockport, is one of just four players selected from across the country and starts his career as a professional rugby player in July.

The back has a busy year ahead with national and international tournaments lined up.

After being selected in a 23-man training squad following an Academy weekend at the end of April, he was picked for the England IPF squad for the Greene King IPA 7s held at Bury St Edmunds.

George, who has been training with Sale Sharks’ first team following strong displays for their under-18 and Jets sides, will look to continue his 15 a-side career and start a university degree at the conclusion of his England sevens contract.

While at Stockport Grammar School, George has enjoyed great success as first XV captain, leading his team to the 2016 Cheshire Cup final at the 12,000 seater AJ Bell Stadium, winning the Cheshire 7s and reaching the Bowl Final of the National Schools 7s at Rosslyn Park.

He said: “Rugby has always been my passion so to be given an opportunity like this is a dream come true and I’m determined to make the most of it.”

Stockport Grammar School’s Head of Rugby, Hugo Corbett, said: “I would like to congratulate George on such a fantastic achievement.

“I know how hard he has worked and this is just reward for all the time, effort and commitment he has put in.

“I would like to thank Sale Sharks for the role they have played in George’s development and his first XV team mates who have been instrumental in developing and encouraging George as a player and captain.

“I would like to wish George every success in his new and exciting venture and hopefully this will inspire other pupils.”