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Cheerleading

About Us

The Oaklands Wolves Cheerleading Academy is the newest addition to our elite sports programme, and proudly the first cheerleading academy in the UK to fully integrate academic study with high-level cheerleading training.

Following a successful first year, the academy has already made its mark, with athletes travelling to Florida to compete and train internationally; a testament to the ambition and calibre of the programme.

Led by Michael Ball, who has overseen the academy’s development, the programme is designed to reflect the fast-growing popularity of both recreational and competitive cheerleading. Michael shares:

Cheerleading is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK and is set to become an Olympic discipline. It attracts individuals from dance, gymnastics, trampolining, and those simply looking for a dynamic and engaging way to stay active. I’m incredibly proud to be launching this exciting new academy alongside our established Wolves programme.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or new to the sport, the Oaklands Wolves Cheerleading Academy offers a professional, supportive environment to grow your skills and confidence – both on and off the mat.

Programme Highlights

Pioneering cheer in the uk 

Now entering its second year, the Oaklands Wolves Cheerleading Academy continues to lead the way as the UK’s first cheerleading academy to fully integrate elite-level training with academic study.

Based at our St Albans Campus, the programme has already made an impact in its debut year with standout performances, national competition success, and the opportunity for athletes to train and perform at a high level while completing a full-time course.

The academy offers a dynamic, supportive environment where aspiring cheerleaders can grow in confidence, skill and professionalism with a focus on teamwork, discipline, and personal development.

What You Can Expect

What You Can Expect

  • Expert cheerleading training led by Ben Vasey-Howe and his experienced coaching team

  • Performance opportunities during Oaklands Wolves home games and special events

  • Entry into national competitions a minimum of twice per year

  • Weekly strength & conditioning sessions delivered by our professional S&C coaches

  • Physiotherapy support overseen by the Head of Physiotherapy

  • Training delivered on approved cheer surfaces at our St Albans Campus

  • Minibus transport between campuses to support study at WGC or SAC

Join a fast-growing sport in a groundbreaking programme that’s shaping the future of cheerleading in the UK.

Important Information

The Oaklands College Cheerleading academy caters to individuals from beginners to elite level, with the competition level (USASF/IASF) ranging from Level 1 to Level 7.

Regardless of competitive level, the Oaklands College Cheerleading Academy will prioritise the development of each individual while fostering a positive and successful team environment.

To join the Oaklands Wolves Cheerleading Academy, you simply need to be enrolled on one of our full-time courses. Once you're part of the programme, you’ll train, compete, and develop alongside like-minded student-athletes.

All academy players are also required to purchase official Oaklands Wolves kit, available through our supplier, KitKing.

 

Find out more about enrolling

Student accommodation at our St Albans Campus is available for those enrolled in the sports academies. Our aim is to create a safe, supportive community that helps you transition smoothly away from home.

Find out more

Contact

MICHAEL BALL
HEAD OF CHEER

01727 737469
michael.ball@oaklands.ac.uk

Which Sports Academy are you interested in joining? *

Please note, young people with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or additional SEND and/or medical needs MUST be declared.  For those with an EHCP, the College is required to follow a statutory ‘Consultation’ process to ensure a student’s needs can be met within the College. We ask that students with any other additional needs that do not have an EHCP declare their needs so we can assess any provision required.  Students can make the appropriate declarations on their College application.  Failure to declare an EHCP or additional SEND/health needs can impact on the young person’s application to the College and access to the Academies.

Do you have an Educational Health Plan? *
Are you interested in residential accommodation? *

Register your interest

If you’re passionate about taking your athletic performance to the next level, Oaklands Wolves Sport Academies are the perfect place to unlock your potential. Offering elite coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and tailored development pathways, we nurture talent across a wide range of sports.

Whether you’re aiming for professional competition or looking to sharpen your skills, our academies provide the guidance and support to help you excel.

Register your interest today and join the wolfpack.