15 May 2026

Dear Parents 

As we reach the end of another incredibly busy and enjoyable week at Cranford, there is a huge amount to celebrate across every part of school life. 

One of the great joys of a school such as Cranford is seeing education extend far beyond the classroom and this week’s residential trips have provided a wonderful reminder of exactly that. Our Year 6 pupils enjoyed a fantastic cultural adventure in Northern France, embracing new experiences, practising their language skills and growing in confidence and independence. Year 5 threw themselves wholeheartedly into a week of PGL adventures, showing resilience, teamwork and plenty of courage along the way, while Year 3 experienced the excitement of their very first overnight residential, a hugely important milestone in their Cranford journey. 

These experiences matter enormously. Residentials are about far more than simply being away from home. They are where friendships deepen, personal challenges are overcome, confidence grows and children discover new things about themselves. They create the sense of freedom, adventure and shared experience that forms such an important part of a wider Cranford education and our belief in developing character alongside academic success. 

As we look ahead, we wish the very best of luck to our Year 7–9 pupils who head off on their own residential adventures this Sunday. Have fun, embrace every opportunity, support one another and carry with you the values that sit at the heart of our school community. Per Salicem Ad Alta — through the willow to the heights. Dare to dream, be kind, look after each other and make memories that will last for years to come. We also wish safe travels to Year 4, who follow up their spectacular concert this week with a residential trip to New Barn in Dorset, good luck Year 4, I know you are going to have a brilliant adventure!  

Public examinations have, meanwhile, continued at pace this week and I would like once again to congratulate our Year 11 and Year 13 pupils for the mature, focused and resilient way in which they continue to approach this demanding period. The exam season is a marathon rather than a sprint and we are all incredibly proud of the commitment, determination and positivity being shown each day. Keep going, we are all behind you. 

The week finished in truly spectacular fashion with the Reception Tea Party, always one of the highlights of the Cranford social calendar and this year certainly did not disappoint. Reception transformed the Willow Theatre into a beautifully decorated setting and welcomed families for a wonderful afternoon of high tea, performances and celebration. The food, carefully prepared by the children themselves, was delicious and the musical and French performances were simply exceptional. It was a lovely reminder of just how much progress our youngest pupils make during their first full year at school. The confidence, joy and enthusiasm on display were wonderful to see, and we are all incredibly proud of everything the children have achieved this year. 

I hope everyone enjoys a restful weekend ahead before another busy and exciting week begins. 

With best wishes 

James Raymond 

Head