The Cricketer Schools Guide focuses on the best schools in the country for the sport – and competition is fierce.
Schools that feature on the list are judged against extensive criteria which show a clear commitment to cricket in the curriculum, facilities, coaching and outreach programmes.
Cricket is offered at St Helen’s from Year 5 all the way through to Sixth Form and cricketers have the opportunity to play both recreationally and competitively, and both indoor and outdoor teams compete in friendly fixtures. Fixtures are entered into county, regional and national competitions. Our indoor net facilities, along with our relationship with Oxfordshire Cricket – hosting their Falcons programme to support state school girls through their pathway with weekly sessions – were noted in the guide, as was our participation in the OX14 Learning Partnership with Oxfordshire state schools, event-hosting, mini-tournaments and sponsorship at local clubs.
Niamh (U15) Southern Vipers EPP and Oxfordshire Women, was mentioned as ‘best prospect’ and was described as a ‘top order batter and seam bowler.’ The Cricketer said that Niamh ‘has taken her game to new heights this year in U15 and U18 teams.’ She has been the highest scorer for the last two seasons, with 444 runs in 18 games in 2025 alone.
“I started cricket when I was 5 years old, following in the footsteps of my older brother, Conor. I went for U11 county cricket trials at the age of 8, and unexpectedly got selected. During this period of time, I was playing for Aston Rowant CC with the U9 boys. When in year 6, I joined St Helens, I joined in with all the cricket I could! I joined Moreton CC this same year and was able to get even more exposure to the game. Through this time, I was able to train and develop skills for when I later trialled for Southern Vipers in 2023 for the 2023-24 team, when I was in Year 9, and got selected for that year. I then later got selected for the 2025 and 2026 teams.
The support I’ve had from St Helens has played a large part in enabling me to achieve my own personal goals and has also allowed me to work towards my aspirations for the future. The 1:1 sessions with Mr Herbert have been really helpful for working on specific areas of my game, allowing me to have freedom and full support for what I would like to work on, helping me build skills but also build my confidence, which is crucial for the game. The senior cricket sessions have also been lots of fun, being able to play with my friends has made training very enjoyable and keeps me motivated, especially on the rainy winter evenings!” Niamh
We are looking forward to a great term ahead of cricket at SHSK, including hosting the Indoor County Cricket tournament, so watch this space for more news! Find out more about sport at St Helen’s:
Sport | St Helen and St Katharine
