24 September 2021
This week has been phenomenally busy, culminating in a wonderful celebration of achievement at our Senior School Prize Giving last night at the Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford. Against a backdrop of splendour, in a venue steeped in history, we recognised the collective and individual achievements of our Senior pupils. We celebrated academic success in national examinations, in addition to the many personal accomplishments of pupils across all areas of the curriculum including Music, Art, Sport, Humanities, Science, Performing Arts and so much more.
It was humbling to reflect on the experiences of our pupils after such an unconventional few years. It was also lovely to hear our Head of School and Head’s Ambassadors talk so enthusiastically, passionately and positively about school life and also about their experience of Cranford Sixth Form, the wide range of enrichment activities on offer and all the opportunities this affords. Speaking from the heart sharing their genuine love for school life, the team expressed their thoughts about what Cranford has meant to them, considering the journey they have been on since they joined Cranford, whilst looking ahead to university and beyond.
In addition, we were treated to some incredible musical interludes, amplified by the magnificence of the Sheldonian’s acoustics. It really was a magical evening and I was delighted to be able to welcome so many parents along to show their support for each and every pupil. In the words of one parent;
I'm not sure we'd really appreciated just how much we had missed the atmosphere and connectedness that such an event can bring until last night. The words...the music...just the joy of seeing everybody together... staff...parents...pupils - it truly was an absolute celebration of the spirit and values underpinning a Cranford experience.
Earlier this week, our Year 6 students enjoyed a taste of Senior School life. They immersed themselves into a busy programme of events, learning new skills and taking part in practical activities in PE, Drama and Music, Science and the Creative Arts. They also enjoyed a spectacular hockey masterclass with English International Field Hockey player, Peter Scott. They had a truly wonderful day and we look forward to our second session next week!
Meanwhile, our youngest Cranford Nursery pupils are feeling very at home in their new surroundings, making lots of lovely new friendships. They have relished exploring every inch of Nursery and all the wonderful toys and activities available to them, not to mention the lovely outside area. Highlights of the week have included drawing to music, working on a large-scale art project and this morning, they particularly enjoyed their first trip to Forest School where they eagerly put their tree climbing skills to the test!
Have a lovely weekend.
James Raymond
Headmaster