11 February 2022

The undoubted highlight of this week for parents and pupils alike, was the Rock and Pop Concert on Wednesday evening. Animating the Willow Theatre, we were treated to an eclectic mix of wonderful performances from our Senior pupils, who took to the stage to show-case their diverse range of musical talents! The sound of live music and energy of the performances was contagious, and I know that the parents really welcomed the return of this wonderful event on the school calendar. Despite the best efforts of the staff band, the pupils were definitely the real stars of the show. The evening was rounded off in style, with everyone joining together to sing that well-loved Abba hit “Thank You for the Music” The support from the audience was superb and made the atmosphere truly electric. Thank you to everyone who made this evening such a huge success.

Senior School pupils were fortunate to be treated to just a few of the Rock and Pop performances this morning as part of our Senior School Assembly, which provided the opportunity to celebrate a whole range of achievements, curricular and extra-curricular, of our Senior pupils. We enjoyed together the success of these pupils, collectively celebrating their accomplishments. I have also had the privilege this morning of seeing many pupils for Headmaster Awards, talking about and seeing some of the fantastic learning they have been doing over the last week. This is always a highlight of my week, witnessing the pupils being so animated about a particular piece of work, project or personal achievement.

The PE department have had a cracking week, with many teams triumphing over the opposition! On the back of a 0-0 draw and a 1-0 loss v Magdalen earlier in the week, the U11 boys attended the IAPS regional qualifier on Thursday. With a strong performance in the first round, they made it through to the quarter finals with ease, when they experienced their first "derby match" taking on Moulsford Prep. Cranford performed brilliantly and shut down the opposition attack swiftly before piling on the pressure and eventually being rewarded with a well-deserved goal. Cranford closed out the game well, making it through to a competitive semi-final, defending brilliantly against Ashfold, who just managed a goal. Cranford came 4th overall and the boys should be immensely proud of their achievements and the way they conducted themselves during the tournament.

There have been some wonderful examples of ‘Generosity of Spirit’ on display across all year groups over the last few weeks. Many of our junior pupils have set up their own fundraising initiatives, raising money for ‘Hope for Children’. From baking cakes, to selling eggs, and creating watercolour cards to sell, we have been so impressed by the motivation on display and the desire to get involved in such a good cause and they have collectively raised a phenomenal amount. In

Senior School, our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, worked hard yesterday break time selling cakes to raise awareness and funds for two charities supporting these issues. Finally, congratulations to Will in Year 7, who walked an impressive 25 kilometers across London, raising money for several charities.

Year 7 have ended the week in style, enjoying a well-deserved treat including pizza lunch. At this half-way point in the academic year, we thought Year 7 deserved to be recognised for the way they have adapted to life in Senior School. They have made exceptional progress and are a wonderful group of young people, who we are looking forward to watch progress over the years to come.

Wishing you all a lovely weekend!

Dr James Raymond

Headmaster