14 January 2022

The Spring Term has erupted in activity this week and there has been a perceptible buzz emanating from classrooms as pupils have enjoyed getting back into the rhythm of school life after the break. Alongside the wonderful work taking place in classrooms, it has been lovely to witness the enjoyment of pupils returning to Clubs and extra-curricular activities, all of which help pupils extend their interests and support the regular curriculum. Our extensive clubs programme offers limitless opportunities for all our pupils to try a new skill, encouraging progress and self-confidence and is a vital part of Cranford life!

Our Year 11 have had a successful week of mocks and are no doubt looking forward to a relaxing weekend. They have really impressed staff, embracing a demanding schedule of examinations whilst exhibiting a highly commendable approach, arriving on time, being well-prepared and coming out smiling! They certainly deserved their celebratory pizza lunch today and I have it on good authority that it was greatly enjoyed!

Senior teachers also enjoyed touching base with Year 13 parents this week as our Sixth Formers approach their final term of studies ahead of their summer examinations. It has been particularly exciting seeing the rich array of university offers arrive into school and we are looking forward to sharing the final steps of their journey towards their summer examinations this term.

It was lovely to see so many Junior and Senior pupils attend Christian Union on Thursday, where Mrs Carter and Miss Hudson looked at the significance of the Lord’s Prayer and discussed its relevance today. We are also looking forward to continuing our discussions that started before Christmas, in the Diversity and Inclusion meeting next week.

Also on Thursday morning in Senior School, Form Tutors launched an initiative for pupils to learn about and celebrate some of the incredible people from ‘Black History Month’ who have contributed to the fields of literature, sport or history. Our pupils have been challenged to work with a friend to research one of these people and discover more about their life, contribution and experiences, before presenting to the rest of the Form their findings. We are looking forward to some exciting presentations and to learning more about the people our pupils select!

Have a lovely weekend.

James Raymond

Headmaster