10 October 2025

Dear Parents

We have enjoyed an exceptionally busy week in School. Today, I have enjoyed walking around the school site as we prepare for our Whole School Open Morning tomorrow. We are looking forward to sharing our school community with the many visitors who have registered for the event and are delighted that interest in Cranford is at an all-time high. Senior pupils are poised and ready to tour families, and we are excited to share our brilliant facilities across the curriculum. Thank you for your support in helping us with this event.

Sixth Form Options Evening
Tuesday saw the annual Sixth Form Options evening take place in the Sixth Form Centre. This is a very special evening in school, offering Year 10 and 11 pupils – and visiting families considering Cranford for Sixth Form – a valuable opportunity to explore the wide-range of A level subjects and life beyond the curriculum. 

The atmosphere was vibrant, as pupils engaged with our Senior Teaching Team, asking insightful questions and delving into the possibilities that lie ahead. It was heartening to witness the genuine interest sparked in our students in subjects from Science to the Humanities, the Arts to Mathematics – each subject area was represented with passion and expertise. Thank you to all the families who joined us for an evening of true celebration of ambition and curiosity! 

Henley Literary Festival, a Visiting Author and a Visiting Singer-Song Writer
Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 had an enjoyable visit to the Henley Literary Festival on Thursday to listen to author and TV presenter Andy Day. He captivated our pupils, hosting a wonderful Q&A session for the children, which prompted some very though-provoking, inquisitive and often funny questions, which had them roaring with laughter (and like the dinosaurs inspired by his book!). It was a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to experience the joy of storytelling adn to see how books bring ideas to life!

This week, pupils in Year 7 and 8 were treated to a visit from inspiring author Brian Dungan who shared insights into his journey to become an author and extracts from his book. Brian’s visit left a lasting impression on our pupils, encouraging them to believe in their potential and showing them that with hard work, determination and creativity, they can achieve their goals. 

Also this week, in celebrating Black History Month, Senior pupils enjoyed a special lunchtime concert from Kenyan artist, Syn-Li. Known for her fusion of East African cultural influences and indie vibes, Syn-Li captivated the pupils with haunting melodies and heartfelt storytelling. She also shared insights into her song-writing process, offering pupils a glimpse into how her music is shaped by personal experience, heritage and emotion. 

RSE Coffee Morning 
Many thanks to the parents who were able to join us for our RSE coffee morning earlier in the week. This is a vitally important topic and a central aspect of the pastoral care and curriculum provision that goes into supporting pupils on their journey through Cranford. It is always so important and valuable to be able to discuss these topics with families and explore how together we can provide a safe and successful space for pupils to develop their understanding as they grow up through school. Mrs Heard (Designated Safeguarding Lead) will be writing to parents to share the slides from the event. We are very much looking forward to welcoming parents to our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Coffee Morning next Tuesday (14 October) and I hope to see you there! 

Please feel free to have a look at this week in photos! Have a good weekend. 

Best wishes

James Raymond

Head