SCHOOL MATTERS

Since the start of the global pandemic, we have used the time to revise, adjust and plan for what would be needed postCOVID-19. The 2021/22 academic year saw us focus intently on this revival phase, taking stock, reskilling and upskilling programmes, investing in the latest digital capabilities, and rethinking curricula. These highlights celebrate a hugely diverse record of events, awards, and accolades across the entire School in 2021/22.

Whole School Highlights

• Ranked in the Top 5 Schools in the Middle East and Top 100 Private Schools Worldwide for the second year by Spear’s Schools Index

• 8,000 hours of staff training

• Food Technology rooms upgraded

• Completion of a successful ISI (UK) Inspection

Academics

This year we built on the progress made in renewing our whole School curriculum which we have been researching and trialling for the last two years.

• The Senior School Core Curriculum reduced the number of GCSEs taught to include more project-based qualifications whilst introducing a vocational route in Sixth Form

• Philosophy, Global Awareness, Careers & Futures, the HPQ / EPQ, Work Experience and Moral Education have all been embedded in the new curriculum

• 75% of Year 9 pupils in the pilot scheme submitted projects for their Philosophy qualification

• Launch of a whole School reading drive with a dedicated reading team

• Introduction of a new Pre-Prep phonics scheme

• Development of a new scaffolded Maths programme up to Year 6

• Second year of delivering BTEC Sport

WELLBEING & COMMUNITY

Prioritising and developing our Wellbeing and Pastoral Care structure before COVID-19 ensured a robust, supportive platform for the whole School Community.

• Highest number to date of pupils involved in our wellbeing committees

• 8 online wellbeing webinars

• Increased involvement of staff and pupils trained in Mental Health First Aid

• In person Speakers Sessions began again at school

• Turtle nesting campaign on Saadiyat Beach

Academic Enrichment

The depth and breadth of initiatives and experiences on offer allowed pupils to challenge themselves and sharpen skills.

• Introduction of a bespoke, worldwiderenowned, Institute of Leadership (ILM) Award for Seniors

• Participation in Stockbrokers Cup, Model UN, The Forbes 30/50 Summit, Student Leadership teams

• Involvement in entrepreneurial programmes

• Collaboration with Cranleigh UK for the van Hasselt Award for Journalistic Writing

Life Skills

Our Core Curriculum prepares individuals for university, employment, and the world they are about to enter.

• All first-choice university places confirmed

• As well as IQ tests, Seniors took emotional quotient tests (EQ test) to further identify skills

• Commencement of Work Experience placements

• The Skills Curriculum was embedded into the Career’s Curriculum using platform, “uni frog”

Outstanding Exam Results

Our first in-person exams since COVID-19. The success reflects Cranleigh’s dedicated and hardworking pupils and our exceptional personalised learning environment that supports and motivates every individual.

• GCSE results: 32% Grade 9, 53% Grade 9-8, 72% Grade 9-7

• A Level results: 48% A*, 71% A*-A-B, 90% A*-C. The pass rate was 100%.

• BTEC grades: 75% Distinction+/Distinction

Variety Of Opportunities

Our skills-based curriculum is built around a robust academic timetable that gives equal importance to the co-curricular.

• Cranleigh won its first award at the international BSME competition, Young Musicians of the Gulf (YMOG)

• We became the host school of the Saadiyat Youth Orchestra

• Pupils represented the UAE with a song at the COP 26 Conference in Glasgow

• Cranleigh took part in many EXPO 2022 Awards

• We hosted BSME Dance 2021/22 for the second year running

• Over 80+ CCAs reintroduced

Digital

In an era of digital transformation, our IT provision was extensive. This meant we could progress rapidly in utilising new technologies, tools, and platforms.

• All pupils from Years 2 to 13 given their own iPad, with all platforms and logins pre-loaded

• Online and IT training for all staff

• Rapid digital literacy progress