Welcome to Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, a forward-thinking school that combines a rich history, vibrant culture, and a commitment to educational excellence.
Founded on the values of the renowned Cranleigh School in the UK, we have been part of the Abu Dhabi community since 2014. We blend our educational heritage with the cultural diversity of the UAE to offer a transformational experience that fosters intellectual, artistic, sporting, social, and moral growth.
Our motto, ‘Ex Cultu Robur’ (From Culture Comes Strength), reflects our belief that education goes beyond exams—it’s about nurturing curiosity, creativity, and confidence, preparing students for a rapidly changing world. We focus on developing critical thinking and empathy, while encouraging every child to discover their unique talents and passions.
Our innovative curriculum balances academic rigor with enrichment and co-curricular activities, ensuring students thrive both in and out of the classroom. Whether in sports, the arts, or academics, we provide a supportive community where students grow, excel, and give back.
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is a place where children of all abilities flourish. With top-tier academic results, competitive sports teams, and internationally recognised arts programmes, we strive to help students build the skills and mindset needed to lead and influence in a globalized world. I invite you to explore our website and look forward to welcoming you to our school to discover the many exciting opportunities awaiting your child.
Best wishes,
TracyCrowder-Cloe
Academics
WHATISEXCULTUROBUR?
Ex Cultu Robur’ (From Culture Comes Strength) is our motto and guiding principle. Edu
about nurturing and encouraging yo
rapidly changing digital wo
and
SCHOOLJOURNEY
PREPSCHOOL
SENIORSCHOOL
OLDCRANLEIGHAN SOCIETY
EARLYYEARS FOUNDATIONSTAGE
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) at Cranleigh
Abu Dhabi provides a nurturing and engaging environment
where children develop a love for learning. Our bespoke
curriculum is based on the EYFS framework of England, fostering curiosity, independence, and confidence through
play, exploration, and hands-on experiences. Specialist
teachers for Arabic, Music, PE, and swimming enrich the learning journey from FS1 onwards.
The curriculum focuses on seven key areas:
Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social, and Emotional Growth, alongside
Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World, and Expressive Arts and Design. Learning through play is at the heart of our approach, encouraging active engagement, resilience, and creativity. With a well-
structured curriculum and purpose-built facilities, we ensure that each child gains the skills and confidence
needed for their next stage of learning.
KEYSTAGE1
Key Stage 1 builds on the strong foundation of the Early
Years, nurturing independence, creativity, and a love for
learning. Using the National Curriculum of England as a
framework, our approach ensures that every child is
supported and challenged as they progress.
Core subjects include literacy, mathematics, and science, with structured phonics, storytelling, and creative writing
developing language skills. Mathematics lessons focus on problem-solving, fluency, and reasoning, while science
encourages hands-on investigations and discovery-based
learning. Lessons are interactive and engaging, fostering
responsibility for learning. Beyond academics, children develop key skills such as collaboration, resilience, and curiosity, ensuring a smooth transition to Key Stage 2.
KEYSTAGE2
At Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, our Key Stage 2 curriculum is designed to support every child’s unique strengths, learning style, and interests. With a personalised approach, our dedicated teachers tailor experiences that spark curiosity, challenge thinking, and nurture a love of learning.
Alongside academic development, we place strong emphasis on character education, building resilience, empathy, integrity, and leadership. Whether through classroom projects or school events, pupils are encouraged to collaborate, take initiative, and grow in confidence.
Our balanced curriculum combines rigor in core subjects with rich opportunities in the arts, sport, languages, and technology.
This holistic approach ensures children develop both academically and personally.
Key Stage 2 at Cranleigh is a time of discovery and growth in a warm, supportive environment. By the time pupils move on to
Key Stage 3, they are well prepared, not just in knowledge, but as confident, compassionate, and capable learners.
KEYSTAGE3
Key Stage 3 at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi provides a well-rounded education, fostering curiosity, resilience, and independence. Students study a broad range of subjects, ensuring a strong
foundation for future learning while developing key skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
A diverse curriculum includes English, mathematics, science, humanities, languages, the arts, and physical education, offering students opportunities to explore their interests.
Lessons are designed to be interactive and inquiry-based,
building confidence and engagement. The Year 9 curriculum
is structured to help students make informed choices for their
GCSE pathways, ensuring they are well-prepared for Key
Stage 4 and beyond.
KEYSTAGE4
Key Stage 4 is a pivotal stage where students begin to tailor their education through GCSE and IGCSE courses. Students typically take 8-9 subjects, including compulsory courses in English, mathematics, and science, alongside a selection of optional subjects aligned with their interests and career aspirations.
Our curriculum emphasizes quality over quantity, ensuring students receive a balanced, engaging, and rigorous education. The Core Curriculum, unique to Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, enhances learning through modules in philosophy, careers, and independent research projects. Students also meet UAE requirements in Arabic and Islamic Studies where applicable. With a strong academic foundation and a focus on future pathways, Key Stage 4 prepares students for success in post-16 education.
KEYSTAGE5
Cranleigh Sixth Form provides a dynamic and personalised education for students aged 16-18, preparing them for higher education and future careers. We offer a range of pathways,
including A-Levels and BTECs, allowing students to tailor their studies to their strengths and ambitions.
A-Levels provide an academically rigorous route, while BTECs offer a more applied, project-based approach. Both
are internationally recognised and equip students with essential skills for university and the workplace. Beyond academics, our Core Curriculum develops leadership, global awareness, and personal growth through the Extended
Project Qualification (EPQ) and specialised modules. With an emphasis on independent thinking and lifelong learning, Cranleigh Sixth Form empowers students to take ownership of their futures.
UNIVERSITIES
OLDCRANLEIGHIANSOCIETY
Pupils who have completed two or more years at the School and have s
UK are eligible to join the Old Cranleighan Society (OCS)
independent school sector. The OCS Network offers lifelong connections, professional
opportunities. Old Cranleighans (OC
enables members to:
Access career guidance and mentoring from university through to professional life and career changes.
Explore job and internship opportunities within the OCS Network and the wider Cranleigh community.
Engage in exclusive business and social events across different industries, including law, finance, media, and international shipping.
Take part in sports and social clubs including rugby, hockey, cricket, golf, tennis, and netball.
Stay up to date with regular newsletters, an annual publication, and dedicated social media channels.
Additionally, Cranleigh UK and Cranleigh Abu Dhabi alumni benefit from The Careers for Life Programme, which provides practical support, networking, and mentorship throughout university and into the professional world. The OCS also runs reunions and alumni events worldwide, strengthening its global presence.
Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
IMMERSIVEVALUES
FS1-YEAR2
PASTORALCARE
and school
e
i
ACULTUREOFWELLBEING
independence
anleigh Values lie at the heart of our wellbeing philosophy. Themes such as kindness, tolerance, and resilience are woven into our pastoral programme, helping students understand and embody these
learners engage with Cranleigh Value Animals—such as ‘Tolerant Tiger’ —and continues through to Year 13, wher
STUDENTLEADERSHIP
that leade
spans across Pre-Prep, Prep, and Senior School, ensur
with their interests and strengths.
PRE-PREPSCHOOL
Our youngest learners are encouraged to take on leadership roles that instill
PREPSCHOOL
House Captains
Head, Heart, Hands (Pre-Prep
Student Council)
Little Librarians
Digital Ambassadors
Arabic Ambassadors
Eco Committee
Cranleigh Voice
House Captains
Digital Leaders
Committee Leaders (Wellbeing,
Environmental, Charity)
House Captains
CAD Listeners
Head Boy & Head Girl
Deputy Head Boy & Deputy Head Girl
SENIORSCHOOL
In Senior School, leadership is embedded into daily school life, allowing students to take on significant responsibilities that prepare them for future challenges. Our
Sixth Form students serve as role models within the school comm
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi.
Student Council
Form Representatives
Subject Leaders
Heads of School
Senior Lead Prefects
Heads of Committee (Wellbeing, Charity, Eco)
Heads of House
Heads of Majlis
Subject & Pastoral Ambassadors
ASSESSMENTACCOMMODATIONS
DIGITALLIFE
At Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, digital learning is seamlessly
integrated across all school divisions to enhance and support students' educational experiences.
In Pre-Prep, iPads are used to spark curiosity and exploration, with Seesaw enabling students to document
their learning, share ideas, and engage with digital
resources.
In the Prep School, iPads continue to enrich learning
through carefully selected educational applications, while
Microsoft Teams facilitates the sharing of resources before, during, and after lessons.
Senior School students bring their own devices,
leveraging technology to deepen their learning, with
Microsoft Teams supporting resource sharing and, at
times, feedback from staff.
Digital literacy skills are embedded across the curriculum
and developed through all subjects, ensuring students are
equipped with essential skills for the future. Dedicated
EdTech Leads in each division ensure the school remains
at the forefront of digital education, providing staff with
ongoing support and professional development in this
ever-evolving field.
SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability is at the heart of our community, and we are committed to fostering environmental stewardship throughout the year. Our students actively engage in a variety of activities that deepen their understanding of environmental challenges and the critical role they play in protecting our planet. Guided by our Sustainability Leads, studen
Senior School
Uni
Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our hands-on learning opportunities include calculating eco-footprints, exploring sustainable solutions in everyday life, and caring for our HydroArt hydroponics wall garden. This garden, located in the Prep School
Eco Room, has already produced tomatoes, herbs, and lettuces while teaching students about water conservation, efficient growth techniques, and their importance in the UAE’s arid climate.
To further inspire action, we organise events like beach clean-ups and eco-runs, inviting Cranleigh families to come together for a greater cause. These initiatives not only contribute to the preservation of our environment but also strengthen our shared commitment to a sustainable future.
CO-CURRICULARLEARNING
THECO-CURRICULARACTIVITIESPROGRAMME
AT CRANLEIGH ABU DHABI WE TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN EDUCATING THE WHOLE CHILD AND PLACE EQUAL IMPORTANCE ON THE ACADEMIC, PASTORAL AND COCURRICULARASPECTSOFSCHOOLLIFE.
Education extends far beyond the classroom walls. Our holistic approach places equal emphasis on academic achievement and the personal growth that comes from experiences outside traditional learning environments. Through our extensive Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) programme, pupils are encouraged to explore new interests, develop independence, and enhance their creativity while embracing new challenges.
The objective of our CCAs is to inspire pupils to build skills that enrich their personal development and bring lifelong enjoyment. By engaging in diverse activities, they foster social connections, cultivate resilience, and discover talents that may shape their future passions or careers.
Each term, we offer a broad range of opportunities, including recreational and competitive sports, performing arts, clubs and activities, and youth service programmes such
p
SPORT MUSIC DRAMA DANCE ART
Football
Netball
Volleyball
Basketball
Rugby
Cricket
Golf
Swimming
Padel
Karate
Yoga
BSME Games (U11,
U13, U15, U19)
BSME
Tournaments
(Netball, Golf,
Football, Swimming,
Volleyball)
Emirates Dubai 7s
Jr NBA
ADISSA League
Abu Dhabi Sport
Championship
BSAK 7s
Manchester City
Coaching
Manchester
Thunder
50 Performances
Young Musicians of
the Gulf
13 different
ensembles
Music trip and
Masterclass from
Cranleigh UK
Instrumental and
Vocal Programme for
Year 2 to Year 13
13 instrumental
studios
Recital hall
Recording studios
Band room
5 purpose-built music
classrooms
Large auditorium
seating over 430
ABRSM and Trinity
examinations
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi
Orchestra Big Band
Concert Band
Junior Strings
String Orchestra
Junior Concert Band
Senior Musical
Prep Musical
Senior Play LAMDA
Shakespeare CCA
Theatre Sports
Partnership with
Urdang
International
Annual Y1-Y13
Dance Show
BSME Dance
Only school in AD
to offer GCSE and
BTEC Level 3
Dance Courses
5 Dance
Companies in the
school
Specalist CCAs
offered by
BodyTree Dance
School
Assembly performances
Performances for
all school wide
events
Dance scholar
workshops
Art Club
Creative Arts Club
Ceramics class
Whole School Exhibition
Painting
Workshops
GCSE & A Level
Art Clinic
Inktober Event
Arts Week
Abu Dhabi Art Fair House Events
Great Pottery
Throwdown
Alice in
Wonderland Whole
School Art Exhibition
Manarat Al
Saadiyat
Lourve Abu Dhbai
Bassam FREIHA Art foundation
Scholar Programme
Bassem Art Gallery
Scholar Exhibition
Guggenheim
Teamlab
Phenomena
ACADEMIC
Philo
Career and futures programme
Sixth form micro courses International relations and political science Sustainability
, allowing them to develop their skills further and contribute meaningfully to the Cranleigh community.
Being a Cranleigh Scholar is not
TRIPSANDEXPERIENCES
Our trips programme offers diverse experiences, from local explorations around Saadiyat Island’s cultural landmarks to international travel that broadens horizons. These excursions provide hands-on learning opportunities that bring academic subjects to life, whether through field studies, artistic workshops, or sports tournaments. They also encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and cultural appreciation, equipping students with valuable skills for life beyond school.
THEPOWEROFENRICHMENTWEEK
Enrichment Week is a standout feature of Cranleigh’s experiential learning ethos. It’s a time when students immerse themselves in curated activities tailored to their interests, from outdoor expeditions and STEM challenges to service-learning projects and creative
workshops. This week is about stepping out of the comfort zone, embracing collaboration, and experiencing personal growth in unique settings.
GLOBALCITIZENSHIPANDLEADERSHIP
Through our trips and enrichment opportunities, students develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Whether contributing to sustainability initiatives, engaging in community service, or navigating new environments, they grow as informed, compassionate global citizens. These experiences also foster leadership, adaptability, and resilience—traits essential for success in an ever-changing world.
Find out more about our Enrichment week trips here.
WHEREINTHEWORLDHAVEOUR CRANLEIGHANSBEEN?
Oman Switzerland
Japan
SriLanka
Maldives
Tanzania
Italy
Bali
Malaysia
Kenya
Thailand
Nepal
Cambodia
Austria
INFLUENCIALGUESTS
JANE GOODALL ROBERT HORRY
MANSOURAL DHAHERI
HISEXCELLENCY
ABDULLAHAL MAAINAH
HIS EXCELLENCY MAQSOUD KRUSE
MAITREYI
RAMAKRISHNAN
SHERYLLEERALPH BRIANCOX TOMDEAN
YUSRA MARDINI
SHANIATWAIN
JOAKIM NOAH
ENGAGEMENT
At Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, the spirit of community is at the heart of our school. Our Cranleigh Community Committee (CCC) plays a vital role in fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all families. The CCC organises a range of events that bring our community together, from cultural celebrations to social gatherings, strengthening the bonds between parents, students, and staff. They also welcome new families through initiatives such as a buddy system, ensuring that every family feels supported and connected from the moment they join. Parent representative Group (PRG), assigned to each year group, serve as a bridge between families and the school. They support communication, provide valuable feedback, and help build a sense of unity within their year groups. Their efforts ensure that parents remain informed and engaged in school life.
In addition, we also have our Strategic Partnership Group (SPG, dedicated to building meaningful relationships with key stakeholders. The SPG collaborates with corporate partners, educational institutions, and community organisations to create opportunities that enhance the educational experiences of our students. By leveraging these partnerships, the SPG supports our mission to deliver a holistic and enriching education.
Together, we embody the values of collaboration, connection, and innovation, ensuring that our school remains a vibrant and supportive community for all.
Governance
CRANLEIGHINTERNATIONAL
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is guided by a dedicated Board of Governors, bringing together representatives from two key stakeholders: Aldar Properties and Cranleigh UK. This
partnership ensures that the school remains true to its vision while continually evolving to meet the highest educational standards.
The Principal and Head of Finance report directly to the Board, with senior staff members contributing to discussions as needed.
The Board operates through two key sub-committees—the Education Sub-Committee and the Development Committee— which meet regularly to oversee academic excellence and future growth. Cranleigh UK has been involved in Cranleigh Abu Dhabi since its inception and plays an active role in shaping the school’s direction. Through ongoing collaboration, regular visits, and shared expertise, we ensure that our students benefit from the best of both worlds—a dynamic, forward-thinking education rooted in the traditions and values of Cranleigh.
WHEREARECRANLEIGH’SSCHOOLS?
CRANLEIGHANS
EXCULTUROBUR
Admissions, Campus & Beyond
PRE-PREPSCHOOLCAMPUS
PREPSCHOOLCAMPUS
The Prep and Senior School Campus,
SENIORSCHOOLCAMPUS
The unique location of both campuses on Saadiyat Island offers opportunities for our students. Proximity to world-renowned cultural landmarks such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat, and pristine beaches enables our pupils to engage with artistic, historical, and environmental learning experiences. Saadiyat’s vibrant community further enhances our mission to nurture global citizens who are inspired to lead and serve.
Together, our two campuses create an interconnected, inclusive community where every child is encouraged to reach their full potential in a supportive and enriching environment.
Please find a map of our Prep and Senior campus here.
PRE-PREPSCHOOL
Gates open at 07:20
Academic day ends at 14:30
Parent pick-up between 14:30–14:55
(Monday to Thursday) and 12:00 PM–12:30 on Fridays.
CCAs run from 15:00 - 16:00 for FS2 -
Year 2.
PREPSCHOOL
Gates open at 07:15
Academic day ends at 15:40 (Monday to Thursday) and 12:00 on Fridays. Most CCAs run from 15:45–16:45 with some running until 17:45
SENIORSCHOOL
Gates open at 07:15
Academic day ends at 15:40 (Monday to Thursday) and 12:00 on Fridays. Most CCAs run from 15:45–16:45 with some running until 17:45
h exploration of
learning, collaboration, and varied tasks.
The school day is organised into 40-minute blocks, allowing for flexibility in lesson lengths. Double periods are utilised for subjects requiring deeper focus, enhancing progress and engagement. Most lessons are 80 minutes long, offering opportunities for in-de
STATIONERY
PREPSCHOOL
Pupils in Year 3 to Year 8 require their own headphones to use with school iPads.
All pupils need to bring their own pencil cases containing:
At least two blue handwriting pens (water-based ink, not
biros please)
At least three standard HB pencils
An eraser
A pencil sharpener
Selection of colouring pencils
30cm ruler (this doesn’t have to fit in the pencil case)
Glue stick Scissors (round-ended for safety)
Protractor (Year 5 and above)
Compass (Year 5 and above)
Casio fx991ES or similar scientific calculator (Year 7 and above)
SENIORSCHOOL
We recommend a Macbook, an iPad or iPad Pro (both options with
Pencil & Keyboard of your preference). A Macbook
your child has opted for Computer Science at GCSE.
We have partnered with an educa
device options and accessories. Howeve
,
re is no requirement to purchase from
All pupils need to bring their own pencil cases containing:
At least two blue or black pens
At least three standard HB pencils or a 0.5 mechanical pencil
An eraser
A pencil sharpener
Selection of colouring pencils
30cm ruler (this doesn’t have to fit in the pencil case)
Glue stick
Scissors (round-ended for safety)
A pair of headphones to use with school iPads/computers
Protractor
Compass
Casio fx991ES or similar scientific calculator
SCHOOLCALENDAR
CATERING SCHOOLBUSES
We believe that nutritious, balanced meals are essential to support the wellbeing, energy, and focus of our pupils throughout their busy school day.
Food Nation ensures that the meals offered are of the highest standard, catering to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. All meals are prepared and cooked on campus by our in house chef.
Our menus are carefully planned to offer a variety of healthy and delicious options, incorporating fresh ingredients and diverse flavours to encourage good eating habits.
Please view the school catering options here. Children can also opt to bring their snack and lunch from home. Please ensure lunch bags/boxes and water bottles are named. We aim to be a nutfree school and ask for full support from parents on this. All food from home must be healthy and easily edible.
Buses run to and from the Senior and Prep campus only. Pre-Prep campus services are not available at this time. Emirates Transport, our dedicated school bus network ensures that students can travel comfortably and securely to and from school, allowing parents peace of mind.
Each bus is supervised by a bus nanny who ensures that pupils are safe, comfortable, and supported during their journey.
Safety and punctuality are our top priorities, and we work closely with our transport provider to maintain the highest standards of service. By choosing our school bus service, families can enjoy a seamless and stress-free start and end to the school day.
Families can register online through the link here. Please refer to the user guide here for assistance. For any enquiries, our School Emirates Transport
Coordinator will be available on cranleigh@et.ae.
PARENTDASHBOARD
The Parent Dashboard is an online resource where you will find curriculum information, school policies, reports, lunch menus, shape of the day, newsletters and other class-related information for your child throughout the school year.
NEWSLETTER
Your school newsletter is published each Friday afternoon and contains key points of information about events taking place two weeks ahead of time. It is important to check newsletters each week to stay informed on upcoming actions and notices.
Please find the newsletters through our Parent Dashboard
LIVEALDARMOBILEAPP
We are delighted to announce the launch of our brand-new Live ALDAR app, designed to make your experience even more seamless and connected. With Live ALDAR, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips:
Online Payments: Pay tuition and fees securely and track your transaction history through the integrated wallet.
Timetables: Access schedules anytime, anywhere.
Support: Submit and track requests with just a tap.
Term Time Management: View term reports and attendance
records to keep track of your child’s academic progress.
Student Life: Manage lunches, uniforms, and school bus
bookings seamlessly.
ADMISSIONS
2025-2026APPLICATIONS
The
Emirates/overseas at any time during the first two terms (typically September - April). Applications to join Cranleigh in the Summer term (the third term) should be discussed with the
Admissions team. BOOKATOUR
We warmly invite you to experience our campuses firsthand. To book a tour and explore what makes Cranleigh Abu Dhabi unique, please click here. *UAE-specific documents such as the Emirates ID can be submitted at a later date. Families should upload a copy of the passport when completing the application.
SCHOOLFEES
Fee invoices are issued by email approximately eight weeks before the beginning of each term. Remittance is due 30 days before the
first day of term. Tuition fees do not include uniform, catering, music instrumental lessons or trips. The majority of co-curricular
activities are provided by Cranleigh staff and are included in the tuition fee. A small number of specialist activities are provided by external providers and an additional cost is incurred. External exam
