Oxfordshire Cricket have partnered with the University of Oxford to deliver a transformative leadership module as part of the Future Leaders Academy (FLA), an initiative aimed at inspiring a new generation of volunteers and leaders through a holistic development programme.
The FLA was established to empower young people across Oxfordshire to step into leadership and volunteer roles within their communities and clubs. Central to this is a new leadership module that will be delivered by the Programme for Global Leadership at the Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Oxford. The programme will immerse participants in a dynamic curriculum that blends academic insight with experiential learning.
The University-led module will introduce students to five interconnected sessions designed to develop their leadership mindset, skills, and character:
- What is Good Leadership? – Students examined leadership as a practice rooted in ethics, values, and identity, distinct from authority or control.
- Leadership and Power – Drawing on ideas from Stanford’s Acting with Power course, this session redefined power as a force for empowering others and building trust.
- Leading for Growth – Focused on resilience, adaptability, and learning from failure, encouraging students to embrace challenges and seek feedback.
- Cultivating a Growth Mindset – Improv Workshop – An energising session using improvisational theatre to build presence, self-trust, and communication under pressure.
- Leading with Courage – A reflective dialogue on fear, vulnerability, and the everyday acts of courage that define meaningful leadership.
Throughout the module, students will be challenged to think critically about their own leadership identities, practise skills in a supportive environment, and step outside their comfort zones. By the end of the module, they will have gained tools not only to lead, but to serve, support, and inspire others in their schools, clubs, and communities.
Nick Pinhol, Managing Director for Oxfordshire Cricket said:
“At Oxfordshire Cricket, we believe that leadership extends far beyond the boundary ropes. Partnering with the University of Oxford to deliver this transformative module allows us to equip young people with the mindset, values, and confidence to lead with purpose — not just in cricket, but in every part of their lives. The Future Leaders Academy is about inspiring a generation who can drive positive change in their clubs, communities, and beyond.”
Anjali Sarker, Senior Manager, Programme for Global Leadership at the University of Oxford said:
We are delighted to partner with Oxfordshire Cricket to nurture the next generation of values-driven leaders, both on and off the field. This collaboration will give the young cricketers a unique opportunity to explore who they are as leaders, build their confidence, and develop the courage to make a meaningful difference in their communities and future careers.
This leadership module forms just one part of the broader Future Leaders Academy, which also includes volunteering, and personal development. With continued support, the programme aims to build a pipeline of capable, values-driven individuals ready to take on leadership roles across grassroots cricket and beyond.