School’s out but now Vinny Finigan is ready to embark on an even sharper learning curve with the Bulls.

The 20-year-old wing or full back has been forced to split Super League with student life over the past two years, while studying for a sports science degree at Leeds Metropolitan University.

As a result, first-team opportunities have been slow in coming for the Oldham-born speedster, who joined the club’s academy four years ago.

Lectures during the day are balanced with evening training sessions, weekend games and even a part-time job, preventing Finigan from chasing his dream of a professional contract at the Bulls.

But a string of impressive displays for the under-20s this season have forced the youngster firmly into the thoughts of boss Steve McNamara, earning him a place in the 19-man squad for tomorrow night’s trip to Harlequins.

And Finigan is now ready to put studies to one side in the search for a big break.

He said: “When I started at Bradford there was no chance of going full-time so I wanted to do something as a back-up in case things didn’t work out.

“I’ve always had a love for sports so a sports science degree seemed perfect and I’ve enjoyed it.

“It has been tough balancing training with university, especially because I’ve had to fit in a part-time job as well, but it’ll be worth it if I get my break at Bradford.

“At this moment in time, my eyes are on rugby, so I’m hoping to go part-time at university and concentrate on training.”

Even if a place in the 19-man squad doesn’t result in a spot in the matchday 17, Finigan believes the experience will be invaluable.

It represents the first step in a well-trodden path already followed by several of his team-mates in the junior ranks this season.

He said: “It’s good to get in with the lads and it’s a new experience for me. I know I won’t necessarily make it into the 17 but it shows I’m progressing and that my efforts have been recognised by the coaches.

“A lot of lads coming through the ranks have been given an opportunity, like Danny Addy and Cain Southernwood, so it gives you a bit of a kick and shows there are chances.

“Getting into the squad is a step in the right direction and hopefully I can get my first game soon.”

Originally a winger, Finigan has been converted to full back with the under-20s, where his pace, step and ability to break a tackle have caught the eye and he remains open-minded about where his future lies.

“I’m more experienced at wing but I’m enjoying myself at full back,” he said.

“This is my first season there and I’m learning all the time. You do make mistakes but I’m a quick learner and I’m picking up all the different responsibilities needed to play at full back.

“Steve hasn’t said that much to me yet about where he sees my future but I’d play prop if that’s what they wanted.”