4 February 2022

This week has erupted in a riot of colour for our Reception pupils, who put their creative skills to the test making Chinese Lanterns, as part of their topic on the Chinese New Year. Adorned with some spectacular work, the Reception classroom looks even more colourful with a vivid display of red lanterns, and I was delighted to be given a step-by-step account of the lantern making process when I visited Reception earlier in the week. The children have also enjoyed cooking and tasting noodles, practising Chinese writing and learning about zodiac signs.

On Tuesday, Year 3 had a wonderful trip to Ufton Court, learning about all things Roman! They explored the grounds, completing a Roman Augury trail, with children acting as augurs to seek to find out whether the day would go well. They also investigated Roman artefacts and discussed what the objects uncovered about Roman Life. The afternoon was spent as legionaries in the Roman army, practising manoeuvres and some children were even promoted through the ranks!

There has been some fabulous sport taking place over the course of this week. Year 5 and 6 took part in a triangular netball tournament with Elstree and St Andrews, with excellent displays of teamwork and some good results too! Year 6 also took part in the ISA Netball Tournament at the end of last week, finishing an impressive 7th overall and our U13 team had a staggering 14-3 win against D’Overbroecks. Meanwhile, Year 7 and 8 girls took part in the Lady Tavener’s Group Stage cricket tournament, coming second which means they qualify for the final stage of the competition in March. Well done to all involved.

An informal concert is always a highlight in the Cranford Calendar and yesterday we enjoyed a wonderful evening’s entertainment provided by our exceptionally musical pupils in Years 7 and 8. The evening began in great style with the Brass Band playing “I wanna hold your hand” by the Beatles; this was followed by a delightful range of instrumental and singing solos. The standard of performance was extremely impressive and testament to all the dedicated practice by our gifted pupils. The Concert Band rounded off the evening with two rousing performances, Ghost busters and Phantom of the Opera. Bravo to all pupils who performed in this great event!

There has been a wonderful buzz in Year 10 this afternoon, who had the opportunity to find out more about the wide range of A level courses on offer and life in Sixth Form at the Sixth Form Conference. Enjoying an afternoon off timetable, the pupils enjoyed exploring the Sixth Form Common Room, talking to students and teachers whilst enjoying a delicious pizza lunch! They then enjoyed a series of masterclasses with our Sixth Form teachers and were encouraged to consider next steps beyond GCSES. They impressed staff with thoughtful questioning as they had a glimpse into the kinds of activities and learning styles they will enjoy at Cranford Sixth Form. This is the start of a series of initiatives designed to help support our pupils with options post-16 education and we look forward to this evolving over the course of the next year.

To round the week off, today Year 11 are having a well-being session, with a visiting speaker sharing strategies for managing exam stress and pressure. They have also enjoyed a special treat of take-away pizza and some well-deserved time out as a year group.

Wishing you a lovely weekend!

Dr James Raymond

Headmaster