18 November 2022
The school has been incredibly busy this week, with preparations for Christmas in full flow alongside an enjoyable Open Week, where we were delighted to welcome so many visitors to the school. However, I must start the week by congratulating our U11 ISA Hockey Champions! With over 30 competing schools from across the UK, the team made an exceptional start to their opening game that set the tone for the day ahead, scoring 3 goals in the first two minutes. The staff were incredibly proud of the controlled and dominant performances delivered by the team throughout the qualifying stages. Cranford conceded a miserly 2 goals as they secured the points needed to progress to the Cup Final against Little Garth School. Brimming with energy and determination, and with their team chant ringing loudly around the stadium, the team carried their momentum from the knockout stages into the final. Cranford quickly took control of the game, storming to victory in a confident performance, underpinned by fluid precise passing, movement and solid tackling. The PE staff informed me that the team perfectly encapsulated our Cranford values as they battled with determination, generosity spirit and energy. This is a great accomplishment for the team and for the school. Well done to all involved!
Anti-bullying Week
On Monday, in recognition of Anti-Bullying Week, pupils and staff came into school wearing odd socks, as part of a national campaign to celebrate what makes us all unique. Schools and pupils across the country have come together this week to ‘Reach Out’ as one to stop bullying. Throughout the week all year groups at Cranford have joined together in assemblies, form time activities and PSHCE talking about the impact of bullying and reinforcing our core school values, notably the importance of generosity of spirit. Anti-bullying week is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the terrible impact of bullying and it has been lovely to see all our pupils getting involved this week, working together to reinforce the kind, supportive school community that Cranford is. This is a theme we return to in lessons, PHSCE, form time and assembly across the year and I am very grateful to parents and families more widely across the school in joining us in ‘reaching out’ together to maintain a zero-tolerance to bullying at Cranford.
Year 10 Parents Evening and Year 9 GCSE Options Evening
It was lovely to see so many parents at these two events this week. We feel so fortunate to have such a supportive parent body and being able to meet parents in person is always so welcome. For our Year 10 pupils, this first Parents’ Evening of their GCSE programme is an important touch point to review progress at this early stage of the year. We are delighted with how they seem to be approaching their studies so far! The Sixth Form was brought to life with GCSE Options for Year 9 pupils and parents on Thursday evening. I know that parents and pupils relished visiting all the different subjects, talking to staff about the opportunities available and we are looking forward to supporting your son or daughter in their choices.
Finally, the cast of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ are working hard, putting the finishing touches to what I’m sure will be a spectacular performance. Please don’t forget to book your tickets if you haven’t already done so. Have a good weekend.
With best wishes
Dr James Raymond, Headmaster