At EACDT, we believe that character is the foundation of a successful and fulfilling life. Our Character Through Sport Programme is designed to intentionally develop the values, attitudes and behaviours that enable children and young people to thrive at school, at home, within their communities and in the workplace.
Character development takes place through a variety of carefully planned learning experiences, including classroom-based character education lessons, one-to-one mentoring, guidance sessions, small-group discussions and experiential outdoor activities. Sport, particularly cricket, is then used as a practical tool to reinforce these character traits by providing real-life situations in which children can practise, apply and reflect on what they have learned.
Every activity is carefully designed to introduce, develop and reinforce our eight core character traits: curiosity, enthusiasm, gratitude, integrity, optimism, perseverance, self-control and social intelligence.
Character Education
Character Education is the foundation of our programme. Our professionally trained Character Education Tutors deliver structured lessons using the EACDT Character Education Curriculum, which provides a comprehensive framework for developing the eight core character traits.
The curriculum is organized into strands and sub-strands that define each character trait, the behaviors associated with it and practical learning activities that enable children to understand, practice and demonstrate positive character in their everyday lives. Every lesson is carefully planned to ensure that character development is intentional, progressive and measurable.
Beyond classroom lessons, our tutors provide mentoring, guidance and group discussions that help children reflect on their experiences, strengthen positive behaviors and develop the confidence to make responsible decisions.
Character Through Sport
Sport is one of the most effective environments for developing character because it creates authentic situations in which values and behaviours are tested in real time. At EACDT, cricket is our sport of choice because it naturally promotes teamwork, integrity, discipline, resilience, leadership, respect and personal responsibility.
Our coaches are qualified cricket coaches who deliver structured practical sessions that develop both cricket skills and character. Every session begins with the introduction of a specific character trait and how it applies to everyday life. Throughout the activities, coaches intentionally reinforce that trait by encouraging children to demonstrate it during play. Each session concludes with a guided reflection, where learners discuss both the cricket skills they have developed and the character strengths they have demonstrated. These reflections help coaches plan future sessions and support each child’s continued character development.
While we encourage every child to enjoy the game and develop basic cricket skills, we also identify and nurture talented players who wish to pursue cricket at more advanced levels. However, our primary objective is not to produce elite cricketers—it is to develop young people of strong character.
Programme Pathway
Our Character Through Sport Programme is delivered through two complementary stages that provide continuous support as children grow into adulthood.
Foundation Programme
Our Foundation Programme is delivered in primary and junior schools. Children typically join the programme in Grade 4, at around nine or ten years of age, and continue their character development journey through Grade 9. During these formative years, they participate in structured character education lessons, mentoring and practical sport-based learning that strengthens both their personal development and their life skills.
Post Foundation Programme
Our Post Foundation Programme supports young people after they complete primary and junior school. It keeps our alumni connected to EACDT through mentoring, leadership development and ongoing personal growth opportunities.
The programme particularly engages those who have demonstrated outstanding character and leadership during their time with EACDT, empowering them to become role models, mentors and ambassadors for good character within their communities. Whether they are continuing their education, seeking employment, building careers or starting families, we continue to support them as they navigate the next stages of life.
The Post Foundation Programme also enables EACDT to monitor the long-term impact of our work, gathering evidence of how character development influences education, employment, leadership and community transformation over time.