27 February 2026

Dear Parents

It has been a genuinely enjoyable first week back after half term, made all the more uplifting by the first welcome glimpses of warmer weather and brighter days ahead.

We have been hugely impressed this week by the purposeful and hardworking approach shown by our Year 13 and Year 11 pupils as they return to the final phase of their A-level and GCSE studies. They have made a very strong start across the board, approaching their work with maturity, focus and determination. I know you will all join me in supporting them fully over the coming weeks and wishing them every success as they move through the willow to the heights.

As I write, we have only just returned from a truly joyful whole-school inter-house pancake race. This much-loved Cranford tradition is always a highlight of the school year, and this year was no exception. There was a fiercely competitive contest between the four houses, with strict rules on running and some very serious judging of pancake-flipping style! St Christopher (Green) emerged as worthy winners after a closely fought battle.

What makes this event so special is not simply the competition, but the way it brings the whole school together. Seeing pupils from pre-prep all the way through to Sixth form working side by side, laughing, encouraging one another and cheered on by the entire community, is a powerful reminder of what makes Cranford such a special place. These whole-school moments reflect the happiness, fun and generosity of spirit that run as a common thread through our school from ages 3 to 18.

That same spirit was very much on display on Thursday evening at our annual Rock and Pop Concert (click here to see pictures). We were treated to an eclectic and uplifting programme, ranging from driving rock anthems to soulful ballads. I was particularly struck by the musicianship of our rock bands, alongside the composure, confidence and quality of performance shown by our soloists and vocalists. It was especially joyful to see pupils from Years 7 to 13 working together to produce such a memorable evening. The camaraderie, shared values and generosity of spirit on display were exemplary, and the concert was a wonderful celebration of collaboration and creativity. Congratulations to everyone involved in a truly special production.

Congratulations must also go to our U11 Boys’ Football team, who put in an outstanding performance at the ISA London West Football tournament, finishing an impressive 3^rd place among a strong field of competing schools. Across 6 games, the team showed determination, teamwork and flair, scoring a total of 12 goals throughout the day. Their hard work, resilience and positive spirit were clear for all to see, and we are excited to announce they will be heading to the nationals at St George’s Park. Well done boys!  

Finally, it was a pleasure to welcome parents and partners into school on Tuesday evening for the Year 7 Parents’ Evening. Thank you to all those who attended. Our Year 7 pupils have made a very positive start to life at Cranford, and it was lovely to be able to share their progress, confidence and growing independence with families.

Weeks like this remind us that life at Cranford is about so much more than academic outcomes alone - it is about community, character and shared endeavour and about helping every pupil develop and fulfil their potential with confidence, joy and purpose. Please see our week in pictures here.

Have a wonderful weekend.

With very best wishes

James Raymond

Head