Former England Rugby World Cup winner Annie Cole has swapped international rugby for the classroom, taking charge of a primary school more than 30 years after lifting the trophy.
The former Red Roses winger was part of the England side that defeated the United States 38-23 in the 1994 Women's Rugby World Cup final.
Cole started on the left wing as England claimed their first world title in Edinburgh.
But her career took a very different direction after she hung up her boots.
Today, the former international is headteacher at Braywood Church of England First School in Oakley Green, near Windsor.
From World Cup winner to headteacher
Cole took up her first headteacher position in September 2025, having previously worked as a deputy headteacher in Maidenhead.
Her journey into education followed an impressive rugby career spanning more than two decades.
Before becoming a teacher, Cole studied Applied Chemistry and worked in the industry while balancing her rugby commitments.
She also represented clubs including Saracens and Henley.
Speaking about her decision to pursue teaching, Cole previously explained:
“I've always wanted to be a teacher.”
She added: “I love seeing children grow, learn, and develop that same love for learning that I've always had.”
Cole retrained as a primary school teacher in 2006, before bringing her sporting experience into a new career.
England's historic 1994 World Cup triumph
Cole was part of an England side that made history in Scotland.
Captained by Karen Almond, England defeated defending champions USA 38-23 in the final at Raeburn Place.
The victory came three years after England had lost to the Americans in the inaugural Women's World Cup final.
England scored five tries, including two penalty tries, to secure the trophy.
Cole, who wore the number 11 shirt, played alongside some of the biggest names in the early history of women's rugby, including Gill Burns.
Reflecting on her career, she said:
“Winning the World Cup was an amazing achievement.”
She continued: “It was a real privilege to play, travel, and be part of such an incredible sport.”
Life after rugby
Cole continued playing club rugby for Henley until 2007 before returning to hockey.
Her passion for sport began at a young age, although rugby was not initially her main focus.
“I played a lot of different sports as a child, and a local rugby club asked me to give rugby a go,” she recalled.
“I got hooked straight away — it became my passion.”
More than three decades after becoming a world champion, Cole is now helping shape the next generation through education.
The school's official website continues to list her as headteacher, while government education records also confirm her position.
It is a remarkable second career for one of England's pioneering World Cup winners.
