Oxford University is celebrating a decade of its renowned cultural leadership programme by launching a special Oxfordshire-focused edition.

The new Oxfordshire Edition of Oxford Cultural Leaders will bring together senior figures from across the county’s museums, galleries, theatres, libraries, archives, and heritage sites. The aim is to strengthen collaboration, support local talent, and build a network of leaders ready to tackle shared challenges and shape the future of the region’s cultural sector.

Richard Ovenden, head of Oxford University’s gardens, libraries, and museums, said: "Marking the 10th anniversary of Oxford Cultural Leaders with this Oxfordshire Edition allows us to celebrate the extraordinary talent we have right here on our doorstep.

"We are proud to invest in this initiative, which will bring together colleagues from across the county to strengthen partnerships, share expertise, and inspire the next chapter of cultural leadership in Oxfordshire.

"We welcome applications from a broad range of cultural practitioners and managers who make up the county’s thriving cultural landscape."

The programme will run across six days between November 2025 and January 2026, hosted at cultural venues around Oxford. Sessions are scheduled for November 26–27, December 10–11, and January 21–22.

Up to 24 participants will be selected. Thanks to heavy university subsidies, the cost has been reduced to £450 per person, covering lunches, refreshments, and some venue costs. Normally, a place on the programme would cost between £3,000 and £5,000.

Applications are open until 29 September.

The course, designed by Oxford University’s Gardens, Libraries and Museums in partnership with the Saïd Business School, is internationally recognised. It combines workshops, lectures, panel discussions, and reflective sessions to help cultural leaders reimagine their vision, innovate, and develop confidence in their leadership. Photo by Godot13, Wikimedia commons.