Staff, teachers and pupils here at Cranford are always enthusiastic about describing our school in great detail and conveying just what makes it so special. The following insights, impressions and first-hand accounts of school life at Cranford come from independent sources, from a recent ISI Education & Compliance inspection, an independent review from The Good Schools Guide, the colourful visit by Muddy Stilettos and, of course from parents here at school. We however, invite you to make your own first impression and extend an invitation to visit and see Cranford in action for yourself. 
At Cranford we encourage an atmosphere of academic endeavour where pupils are recognised as an individual while both challenged and supported to reach their fullest potential. Academic excellence plays an important part in the well-rounded education we pride ourselves in providing. Our GCSE results typically see over 60% of all grades achieved at 9-7 (A*-A). The school consistently achieves a value-added score of +1.3 showing that pupils at Cranford can expect to achieve over a grade higher per subject than they would elsewhere.
The quality of pupils’ academic and other achievement is excellent.
Pupils make rapid progress in developing knowledge, skills and understanding. This is as a result of the school’s supportive and collaborative learning environment and their own determination.
ISI INSPECTION
Cranford pupils are taught to value and respect every person as an individual. This engenders tolerance and the ability to foster relationships which stand our pupils in good stead in future life. Our small class sizes, close community and strong pastoral care ensure that teachers know each pupil personally, providing individual support to ensure their development needs are met and their unique talents are enhanced and celebrated.
From the first morning drop-off my child was put at ease and welcomed into the Cranford family, the school were brilliant at helping them to settle quickly, make friends and make the most of school life. As a family we were amazed by the number of clubs and extra-curricular opportunities for our children.
YEAR 3 PARENT
Cranford aims to ensure pupils are happy, confident and motivated and that their self-belief, characterised by curiosity, resilience and a spirit of collaboration, inspires them to achieve at each stage of their individual learning journey.
Small classes are a Cranford USP. Average of 11 in Reception; 18 in Year 7; 6 in Sixth Form. ‘My teachers know what makes me tick,’ said a Sixth Former, and it’s the case throughout the school and teaching is tailored accordingly: no one-size-fits-all. They bring things to life.
GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE
We are renowned for our strong focus on pastoral care and the positive, supportive relationships between pupils and staff. We are fully committed to ensuring our happy, friendly school is a place that pupils look forward to coming to each day.
Teachers don’t just know their names, they know what they’re good at, what’s going on in their lives, say parents. Pastoral care comes naturally in a place like this.
GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE
All pupils play an active role in the extra-curricular life of the school. Our aim is to ensure that there is something for everyone - offering breadth, variety and most importantly lots of opportunities for pupils to have fun and challenge themselves at school. With over 100 clubs taking place in school each week, 200+ peripatetic music lessons, an average 30+ going out on fixtures and so much more, our community is a hive of activity throughout the day!
Unspoilt pupils appreciate super residentials: Year 6 residential is ‘the best’, particularly if you’re into ziplining; Year 11s all go to Paris; Year 13 to Iceland; one wide-eyed Year 3, a budding vet, described how she got to pick up a giant millipede on their recent visit (‘all the boys were screaming’). Big take-up of bronze Duke of Edinburgh. Small World Challenge group to Borneo recently.
GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE
Sport sits firmly at the heart of the curriculum providing pupils with the opportunity to learn new skills, challenge themselves, work as a team and simply have fun. From the youngest age, pupils are encouraged to engage in the broadest range of physical activities, from Hockey to Football, Netball to Cricket, Gymnastics to Swimming and much more besides.
School sport is fun at Cranford offering sport for all alongside pathways to excellence with many pupils entering county or representative sports programmes.
DIRECTOR OF SPORT - MRS SEAR
Netball, football, hockey, cricket and tennis, pupils can elect what they would like to do each term. A can-do, positive, healthy approach – pupils are enthusiastic, if not bloodthirsty, on the pitch. ‘Cricket’s the best because you get to play it in the sun,’ apparently.
GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE
The all-inclusive approach that lies at the heart of the Music & Drama Department ensures that every child has the chance to develop their performing arts talent encouraged by staff to help unlock the potential of all pupils.
Drama, musical theatre and dance productions are an important aspect of school life and all are encouraged to take part. With its crucial role in developing strong communication skills, Drama is central to the school’s curriculum right through to Sixth Form. Alongside exciting theatre trips, the school is renowned for their in-house productions, helping further fuel an interest in the performing arts.
MUDDY STILETTOS
