Powell, who can also play in the second row, arrived at Northampton Saints in February and has made four appearances for the club’s second team, the Wanderers, and has scored one try.

The former Millfield School pupil, who left Harlequins’ academy to come to Franklin’s Gardens, has also impressed the Academy staff with his leadership skills and high work rate.

Academy coach Rob Hunter said: “Tom has taken his opportunity and worked very hard to earn his place in the Academy. He has great athleticism and natural ability combined with the desire to achieve. He is an excellent and exciting addition to the team and has impressed everyone at Saints. We look forward to seeing a lot more of him next season.”