Cranleigh Prep School Yearbook 2024 by Cranleigh School

2024 YEARBOOK

Comings and Goings

WELCOME TO...

MrVincentLawrence HeadofGeography

MissSophieTolley PAtoDeputyHeads

MsRebeccaSherwood Matron

MsMelPopham SchoolNurse

GOODBYE TO...

MsAnnabelDavis Matron

MrsMahaliahEdwards-Whiting TeacherofMusic&Cultural Development

MrJoelRobinson HeadofContemporaryMusic

MissJemimaBatchelor GAP

MrNicolasSoltysik French

MrRhysLewis GAP

MissEllieMacMillan GAP

MrJonahCahusac GAP

MissMillieDavis GAP

MissLilyBrewer GAP

MrCharlesPatient GAP

MrsMariaJardim CateringAssistant

Sport

Extensive grounds afford our pupils the opportunity to train and compete weekly across many disciplines. This year we have hosted regional competitions in swimming, netball and hockey, plus our own successful girls’ and boys’ teams have competed in national finals for netball, hockey and Eton Fives.

Rugby

A major boys’ sport, rugby is coached and played at all levels for all abilities. Beginners play tag rugby and can quickly advance to full contact. Coaches from Harlequins RFC complement the training and this year saw the first 7s matches.

Netball

Ten outdoor and two indoor courts, provide the perfect venues to coach and play netball. We hosted IAPS

Four all-weather, full size surfaces can accommodate over 100 children playing hockey simultaneously. National and international coaches on the staff ensure an unrivaled development pathway for the children.

Hockey Girls’

Our U13 1st team had a fantastic season, culminating in winning the National IAPS plate competition.

Hockey Boys’

As with girls’ hockey, boys’ hockey thrives at all levels.

Football Boys’

We are fortunate to have eight 5-a-side, three 7-a-side and four 9-a-side pitches alongside an 11-a-side pitch, so there are great opportunities for all to be involved in training and intra-school fixtures.

Football Girls’

A relatively new introduction to the sporting calendar, the girls have fully embraced the sport and have a healthy programme of matches.

Boys’

Cricket

The facilities for cricket give the ‘wow’ factor. Four separate cricket net areas of up to six bays each, an indoor sports hall with net areas, plus a specialist cricket bubble.

Girls’

Cricket

Equal weighting is given to boys’ and girls’ cricket.

Tennis

Tennis is popular and our twenty courts make it accessible to many.

Golf

Golf is a popular activity with the course often taken over by swathes of children honing their swing.

Not many schools have their own beautiful nine-hole course on site.

Fives

Eton Fives is another opportunity for pupils and the Eton Fives Association Coach of the Year happens to be a member of our staff!

Swimming

We have a swimming pool located at our Senior School and our pupils have swimming lessons regularly. The pool is a four-lane 25m indoor swimming pool, with markings for lane swimming and water polo.

Horse Riding

We have our very own Equestrian Centre where we accommodate liveries and run our own Riding School which is open seven days a week to internal and external clients. It is a remarkable opportunity for pupils to ride during the school day and compete.

Cross-Country and Athletics

Cross-country is an individual pursuit that can be taken as an activity after school. It becomes a fantastic team sport when we enter the meets that are scattered throughout the academic year. We have extensive grounds that allow for a variety of different distances and terrains.

All pupils have a weekly athletics session in the Summer term, as well as two weeks entirely devoted to the different disciplines ahead of the most exciting day of the year: Sports Day. Weekly athletics activities, taken at the end of the school day, supplement this provision and allow those who have a passion for the sport to fulfil their potential.

We are fortunate to have an eight-lane 400m track, as well as a synthetic-track, long-jump pit, high-jump fan and multiple throwing circles.

Sports Day

Towards the end of Summer term both our Lower School and Upper School Sports Days have a wonderful atmosphere with everyone fully invested in supporting their friends and Housemates.

The younger pupils aim to achieve athletic standards, whilst the older athletes compete for positions earning points for their Houses and ending the year in style.

Sailing

Form 4 (Year 6) & Form 6 (Year 8) pupils have the exciting opportunity to participate in residential sailing trips to Poole, Dorset. This adventure introduces them to the fundamentals of sailing while enjoying the beautiful coastal setting. During the trip, pupils work towards achieving their RYA Level One certification, a recognised standard in sailing proficiency.

Skiing

The Ski Race Team trip to France is an inclusive opportunity extended to all Form 6 (Year 8) pupils who demonstrate proficiency in skiing. During the ski trip, pupils partake in a range of structured activities designed to enhance their skiing abilities and overall experience. Notably, pupils engage in two days of competitive racing, featuring giant slalom and slalom events, providing them with opportunities to challenge themselves and showcase their skiing prowess.

In the Michaelmas term, 11 pupils travelled to Les Menuires in the ‘Les 3 Vallées’ ski area of France for the First Snow School Ski Racing Championships.

We were extremely proud that one of our pupils finished 10th in the slalom out of over 120 skiers from schools across Britain in the U18 category.

Alternate Sports

Alongside the sports that make up the core components of the sporting programme children are able to participate in many other sports during the course of the year including pickleball, table tennis, rounders, NFL and squash.

Our calendar includes a termly ‘alternate sports’ Saturday morning. This gives the opportunity to move away from playing a competitive fixture against other schools in the major sports, and to practise a sport that may lead to a life-long love of the activity.

Clubs & Activities 67

We encourage all pupils to take part in various sporting clubs and activities and to have a positive attitude towards discovering a new passion. There are many additional clubs and activities, providing something for everyone and a chance to try new experiences and skills.

‘If there’s an activity, hobby or sport you can think of, it’s probably on offer here’ MUDDY STILETTOS

Christmas Party

Great food, great company, great karaoke, great secret Santa, great party games and fairly average jokes from the Head of Boarding, the perfect way to end the term and see in the Christmas season.

‘An explosion of fun, food and presents’

‘I loved seeing the Senior School eco prefects dressed up as trees!’

Wassail

Boarders and staff met in the orchard on a cold, crisp January evening to take part in this age-old tradition of giving thanks to nature by creating a mighty noise with pots, pans, sticks and even a conch shell! Fun was had by all!

‘It was so cool and there was lots of screaming’

Laser Tag

Boarders got to enjoy the ultimate laser tag experience in the Wyatt Hall, complete with inflatable maze, smoke machine and real-time LCD leader board!

‘Taking on the teachers was great fun’

Boarding’s Got Talent

Groups of boarders from a range of year groups spent weeks preparing song, dance, comedy and magic shows for a panel of judges. The results were amazing...

‘I loved it when all of us joined in with the singing’

‘It was great to meet Simon Cowell – even if it was just a cardboard cut-out of him’

Graffiti

Professional graffiti artist Leon taught the boarders the tips and tricks behind creating the very best street art.

‘Leon was such an amazing teacher’

Cook Your Own BBQ

Boarders got to cook their own supper using eco-friendly BBQs made out of bamboo, pumice stone and cardboard!

‘The halloumi and tomato kebabs were my favourite’

Lower School

Form 1 (Year 3)

New faces abound

Thrilling times at work and play

Form 1 is such fun!

A Form 1 Haiku

(Haiku = a 3-line Japanese poem with 5 syllables, 7 syllables, 5 syllables)

Here we ask Form1pupilsMax, Finlay&Clemmie

What’s your favourite subject in school? French.

What do you like to do during break time?

Finlay

I like playing Manhunt and Moon Ball games with my friends.

What did you enjoy most about your residential trip?

I liked the food and the movie!

What is your favourite after-school activity/ club?

Badminton with Mr Brooks on a Friday.

Where is your favourite place to play in school?

5-a-side.

What’s your favourite sport at school and why?

Rugby because most of my family played professionally.

What’s the best thing about your teacher?

She doesn’t make us do too much writing.

What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you at school?

When my friend realised he had taken something out of the library without realising it!

What School house are you in and what School house competition do you enjoy the most?

I am in Hearts and enjoy the Sports Day where we can get points for our School Houses.

Clemmie

What’s a fun activity you have done in school?

Making the sloths in Humanities.

What’s your favourite snack at school?

Donuts!

Where’s the best place to hang out at playtime?

Near the blossom trees in summer or on the Quad.

What is your favourite subject in school and why?

Humanities because we get to create things.

What would you like to be when you grow up?

A zoo keeper.

Lower School

Max Form 2 (Year 4)

Avie

Jack

What is your favourite after-school activity/club?

Ball games because I like doing sport.

What is your best memory from school so far?

When we went to a rugby tournament and the team I was in won it.

What is the best school lunch you have had?

The pasta and for pudding the crumble.

What school production did you enjoy watching the most this year?

I really enjoyed watching the Form 3 production

Frozen.

What was your favourite thing about the Form 2 residential trip?

The sailing because we had to work together on the boat and we went quite far out to sea.

What is your favourite lesson?

English because we get to write stories and do fun stuff!

Do you play an instrument?

Yes, I enjoy playing the violin and piano.

How many different sports/activities did you take part in this year?

Lots – I played netball, hockey, football and cricket. I enjoy playing the guitar, violin and piano. I do street dance as well.

What is something you would like to change about the School?

I think it is almost perfect!

What would you like to be when you grow up?

When I grow up I would like to be either a footballer or something like a lawyer/normal job.

Do you play an instrument?

No, but I like listening to my friends when they play in the school concerts.

What do you enjoy most at school?

I do enjoy school life as I like spending time with my friends and playing most team sports.

What do you enjoy about sport?

I get to play against other schools quite a lot. I enjoy representing the School in the A team in our weekly fixtures.

Here we asked questions of Form 2 pupils Avie, Jack, Max and Bella

What is the best book you have read at school and why?

Ella On The Outside because it’s so imaginative and it is a touching story.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why?

To fly because I’ve always wanted to since I was young!

What makes you smile at school?

My friends. When I am sad, they pick me back up again.

What was your most memorable lesson?

Art, because I can be free with what I make.

What do you look forward to during the week?

Baking club, because the teacher is really kind and friendly.

A Form 2 limerick

There were thirty-six pals in Form 2, Who knew there was so much do to!

So they worked and they played, Studied Romans, and made Splendid progress, those pals in Form 2!

Middle School

Form 3 (Year 5)

It has been a brilliant year in Form 3, full of smiles, laughter and many successes. The children have really risen to the challenges of Middle School and have approached the year with positivity and maturity. They have taken part in a multitude of exciting activities and events, but the highlights have to be their Form 3 production of Frozen and our residential trip to Mill on the Brue. The children have been an absolute delight to teach and be with; they have been a real credit to the School and done themselves proud over the year. Well done Form 3 and we wish you the best for Form 4.

Here we ask pupils Nahla, Harvey and Max about their time in Form 3

Tell us about a new skill you have learned at Cranleigh Prep?

In Acro, I’ve learned how to do a back-bend kickover and a front walk over. It makes me feel like I really belong to the group and I’m really proud of myself.

What’s your favourite school meal?

My favourite school meal is pizza on Fridays with cous cous and a tomato soup. For dessert I also love the tiramisu. All the food is really lovely and I owe the chefs a big thank you for making our lunches so yummy.

What are you currently reading?

I have just started reading The Last Bear by Hannah Gold. It won the Blue Peter award last year. It’s about a girl meeting a bear and them becoming close friends.

If you could change anything about school, what would it be?

That’s tricky, there’s not really anything I’d change but I know some of the girls in my class would like the opportunity to play girls rugby, so I think I’d add this in as a club for Middle School.

What have you been learning in your drama lessons?

In the Michaelmas term we did the production of Frozen. It was really fun because we got to learn different songs and dances and there were opportunities to get some great parts in the show. Since then, we have been doing lots of fun drama games and vocal/script work.

Is there a new sport you have tried this year? If so, what was it?

I’ve been doing hockey and have tried goal keeping for the first time. I have been playing goal keeper for the A team and I am really enjoying it.

Do you prefer playing a sport or reading a book?

I prefer playing sports because when you play sports, you’re with your friends and it’s really fun. As well as being fun, you are learning something and progressing your skills which is a great feeling. What opportunities are there for you in the school library?

All the children get their own ZPD, which gives them the opportunity to read books at the right level for them. The library is open during breaktimes for children to access and they can sit quietly and read or come in and change their books. There are so many books, that is something for everyone, no matter what level you are or what type of book you like reading. We also have weekly library lessons, where our librarian talks to us about different authors and helps us find books she thinks we will like.

What can you tell us about the eco rules/ provision at Cranleigh Prep School?

We have recycling trays in each classroom and we put used or scrap paper into these, so it can be recycled. We are always encouraged to turn off the lights after our lessons and when we leave the classroom and shut the windows to not let the heat escape.

If you could trade places with a fictional character for a day, who would it be and why?

I would be Superman as it would be so cool to fly! I would like to fly around the school and to other places. The first place I’d go would be Australia, as I’ve always wanted to go there, although I’m not sure about all the spiders there!

What is your favourite subject?

My favourite subject is Science. I find Science really interesting, especially learning about living things and the human body. I love the equipment that we get to use in the labs like the Bunsen burners and our teachers do some really cool demos. I’m excited to do more and more experiments as I get older.

Middle School

Form 4 (Year 6)

Here we find out about Form 4 pupils Henry, Tom, Marni and Sienna

What’s the best thing about being in Middle School?

It’s really nice to have different lessons like History, Geography, RP, but also Food Tech and DT are more advanced.

If you were the Head, what one rule would you make for all the children in your school?

Open up all of the grounds for pupils at break, let us burn even more energy!

Have you been on any school trips in Form 4?

And if so, tell us a bit about them.

We had a residential to PGL. We had awesome activities like the Giant Swing. We also got to spend a week with our friends and got given a lot more independence and responsibility.

If you could have a famous person come to your school for a day, who would you choose and why?

Bukayo Saka, to give us a masterclass on skills. But also, to find out what it’s like to be a professional footballer and celebrity.

What sport do you enjoy the most at school and why?

Swimming, it’s fun and not everyone gets to do it in every school.

What’s the coolest art project you have done this year?

This year we have been making pinch pots, which is where you mould a ball of clay and continuously shape it until you have a pot shape.

What is your favourite book?

Mortal Engines! I also liked the film.

What did you get out of your residential trip?

Overcoming barriers, from facing a fear of heights to knowing what it is like not to be able to see.

Have you been to any LAUNCH events?

I haven’t, because I go to an art drop in at that time, but I was interested in the topic of ‘Why did people vote for Hitler?’

What makes a good teacher?

Teachers who listen to your side of the story and want to hear what you have to say.

What’s your favourite thing about Cranleigh Prep School?

Whenever you’re working, teachers look out for you and see how best to help you.

What is your favourite subject at school and why?

Food Tech, it’s really fun and you get to cook. The best was cheese biscuits, attested by my whole family!

Tom

Henry

What do you think about the sport at school?

The sport is really fun, everyone is hugely encouraging and you are always given the opportunities, no matter if you’re a beginner or a pro.

Have you done any exciting science experiments this year?

We did the PH scale testing for acids and alkalis, we also used red cabbage indicator to test lots of different liquids.

Marni

Form 4 is the time in a pupil’s life when they transition from Middle to Upper School.

With the increase in work commitments, we see an evergrowing sense of independence and organisation.

Throughout the year they have thrived, enjoying success in the classroom, on the sports field and within the arts.

What has been your favourite house event? House singing.

What languages do you learn at Cranleigh Prep School?

At the moment we learn French but we also start learning Spanish in Form 6.

What projects do Form 4 do in DT?

This year we have been making clocks. I made a French-flag clock! We have also made key chains, using the laser cutter.

What one piece of advice would you give to a Lower School pupil?

In Form 4, you do start to get more homework. It

is a good idea to use your free time while at school, then you have nice free evenings.

What is your favourite club/activity?

I haven’t done any afterschool clubs yet, but I’m interested in doing girls’ football after school.

Sienna

Upper School

Form 5 (Year 7)

This has been a phenomenal year for the Form 5 pupils. They have enjoyed all the School has to offer from academics to sport and performing arts. They have engaged in after-school activities and school trips that have helped them develop their knowledge and social skills.

Lottie

Here we ask pupils Lottie, Ben and Betsan about their time in Form 5

What makes Cranleigh Prep School a special place for you?

It is a special place for me because it is a place where you have a lot of fun and a place where you can be very productive. It has much to offer like sport, drama, and much more. It just feels like I can always try everything and give it a go, even if I am not so good at it.

What’s a funny memory you have of this school year?

A funny memory was when we were in English reading Axolotl by Julio Cortazar, our teacher drew a fantastic axolotl on the board which everyone in our set loves.

What’s your dream for the future and how is school helping you achieve it?

My dream is to work in the field of space (hopefully NASA) because I think space is so beautiful and I would love to learn more about it. School is helping me along the way because this year in Science we were looking at space and we were so lucky to be able to go to the Planetarium, which was an amazing experience.

Do you do Food Tech at school and, if so, what have you cooked?

Yes, we do. We have cooked so many great meals and puddings and my favourite were the cookies we baked at Christmas.

Ben

Betsan

What is your favourite part of the school day and why?

year?

We did Laser Quest in boarding in the Lent term; we got split into four teams and it was brilliant fun.

As a boarder, what do you enjoy most about boarding?

I most enjoy seeing my friends and doing activities provided, as they are always fun. Every Thursday we have ‘boarder’s choice’ where we get to choose the supper menu.

What motivates you to learn more?

I want to be successful in life and I want to get good scores on my report cards.

What is the most interesting or unusual thing you’ve learned recently?

I learned that Australia is wider than the moon. What piece of advice would you give to a Middle School pupil?

Hand in your prep on time and always be helpful.

My favourite part of the school day is Registration because you can get ready for the long school day ahead. You also get to know if there any new clubs that could be fun: something you might enjoy or anything that you may be participating in such as fixtures or galas.

What’s a new skill you have acquired during your time at Cranleigh Prep School?

A new skill that I have acquired during my time at Cranleigh Prep School would be improving in most academic subjects; I have also gained in confidence and my ability to do well.

What is the most challenging thing you’ve faced at school and how did you overcome it?

Exams have been the biggest challenge and I faced that challenge by preparing well, working hard and revising so I could achieve the highest grades I can.

What subjects do you enjoy the most?

Food Tech and History are my favourite subjects. I love making delicious meals and being creative and working hard to achieve a good result. I love learning about the past and looking at how we can learn from mistakes to make a better future.

Upper School

Form 6 (Year 8)

Here we ask Form 6 pupils Elliott, Josh and Ariel about their time at Cranleigh Prep.

Have you enjoyed having more responsibility at school this year?

This year Form 6 have done many different jobs. My favourite was looking after Form 1 and Form 2 on the pirate ship and 5-a-side. It was fun getting to know them and also fun watching their ‘funny’ games. I was very excited to be made a Prefect.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned in Form 6?

The harder you work, the better you do and the more you get out of it.

What are you going to miss about Cranleigh Prep School?

I will miss my friends who are going to other schools. I will also miss my teachers and I’ll just miss being at a school where I feel at home. I will really miss Mr Batchelor and boarding.

What piece of advice would you give to incoming students?

Try hard and be kind.

What has been your favourite school trip?

I loved going to PGL in Form 4. I am very excited to go to Swanage after the exams this year.

Which sport have you enjoyed the most this year at school and why?

I love all sports and it is difficult to choose, but I really loved playing rugby 7s this year because it is something we have never really done before.

Describe your journey at Cranleigh Prep School in three words Fun-Challenging-Fun!

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

As a famous actor picking up my first Oscar.

What has been the biggest change in you since starting at the School?

It is really hard to remember how I was when I started but I hope I have become a better person, a kinder person, a more caring person and someone who others look up to.

What activities/clubs do you take part in?

Eton Fives, School Films, drama scholarship, rugby 7s. Reading with the little ones in Form 1 and 2, Chamber Choir, School Band.

What piece of advice do you have for a Middle School pupil?

Life changes as you grow up and some things become harder, but you must never give up. You will always surprise yourself by what you can achieve if you persevere and believe in yourself.

What is your favourite place in the School and why?

My favourite place is Top Pitch. In boarding we often get the chance to play there or just hang out. I have seen some amazing sunsets from Top Pitch. It is a place where I have many happy memories.

What school lunch do you enjoy the best?

I like them all. The food is great but, if I had to pick my favourite, PASTA.

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

If you really want to do something you have to believe in yourself and try. If you do this you can achieve just about anything.

What do you want to be/do when you leave school?

My parents are both doctors and I would love to follow in their footsteps because I would like to be able to help people. In my spare time I would love to be a wildlife photographer.

Describe Cranleigh Prep School in three words

Educational, supportive and fun!

The final year is always a special one and this year has not disappointed. From moviemaking to cricket matches, from rugby tours to a residential in Swanage, from ski trips to general knowledge quizzes, it has been a year full of excitement, fun and achievement.

Good luck to all the Form 6 pupils as their academic adventures continue at their new school.

Outdoor Learning

Outdoor education is a fantastic way to inspire and surprise young minds. Being outside enhances our pupils’ sensory experiences and provides hands-on learning that classrooms can’t always offer. It promotes physical activity, which boosts overall health and helps our children develop key life skills like problem-solving and teamwork. Nature stimulates their curiosity and creativity, making learning more engaging and fun. Plus, it fosters a sense of responsibility toward the environment, helping children grow into environmentally conscious individuals.

Throughout the year our pupils have a number of opportunities to enjoy lessons outdoors including Science activities, Maths lessons, archaeological digs, during Humanities lessons, designing Rangoli patterns and play in our Copse area or on our new play equipment.

Zoolab

Kew Gardens

Form 1 enjoyed Kew Gardens investigating plants! Following seed dispersal discussions, they became squirrels themselves and had to hide their own nuts (raisins). The challenge was to find them again later.

They also collected different fauna and looked under the microscopes at the different parts of a flower. As part of the trip they visited the famous Palm House and discovered what it would be like to live in the canopy of the rainforest.

Form 1 pupils had a wonderful time meeting five rainforest animals!

Zoolab brought Gary the African land snail, Mango the millipede, Shelob the Chilean rose tarantula,

JaJa the white tree frog and Wonder the corn snake!

They learnt lots of fascinating facts about these amazing animals.

Haslemere Museum

Pupils continued their study of ancient Egypt with a trip to Haslemere Museum.

They took part in some fascinating workshops where they learnt about the process of mummification, deciphered hieroglyphics, handled replica artefacts and visited the museum’s collection of genuine mummies. The highlight was mummifying their own figurines, complete with amulets and death masks to ease their journey to the afterlife.

Fishbourne

Form 2 visited Fishbourne Palace, near Chichester, to explore how the rich and famous lived during the Roman era in Britain. They learnt about life in the largest Roman palace ever found in Northern Europe and were amazed by the famous ‘Cupid riding a Dolphin’ mosaic, which contains 375,000 tesserae.

In the workshops everyone had the opportunity to try mosaic making, writing on wax tablets in Latin, playing Roman games, spinning wool, cooking in the kitchen, building Roman arches and even dressing as Romans.

Greek Day

As part of their Humanities curriculum, Form 2 came to school dressed in a fabulous variety of Greek costumes, ready to join in with a very informative interactive workshop run by a guest Greek.

During the action-packed morning, the children learnt all about Hoplite warfare, armour and weapons.

Trips & Workshops

Guildford Cathedral Visiting Pilots

Form 3 were introduced to their new Religion and Philosophy course.

They had a visit to Guildford Cathedral where they were shown round the building, learning all about its key features, and they also took part in an ‘Introduction to the Bible’ workshop.

As their Humanities unit on Global Location drew to a close, Form 3 welcomed two pilots who explained how Geography is used in aviation, planning every aspect of a flight from London Heathrow to Johannesburg, from the weather to fuel load. It was a wonderful way to conclude this unit.

Butser Ancient Farm

Form 3 experienced all things Anglo-Saxon on a visit to Butser Ancient Farm, which complemented their Humanities studies.

Butser is an archaeological site where they experiment by rebuilding ancient and medieval buildings. The pupils enjoyed a snack around the fire in a reconstructed house; they also visited Butser’s Roman house and tried their hands at medieval pottery, making wattle walls and even became archaeologists themselves.

Sky Up Academy

Seventeen pupils in Forms 3 and 4 were invited to take part in Sky Up Academy in Osterley.

Sky Up Academy is an immersive learning experience where pupils are given the opportunity to create their own news reports in a state-of-the-art studio.

It was Children’s Mental Health Awareness week when they visited and the topic for our pupils was ‘Emotional Wellbeing’.

As well as creating their own news report the pupils and staff also got to access the actual Sports News recording studio.

Shah Jahan Mosque

Form 4 visited the Shah Jahan Mosque in Woking as part of their Religion and Philosophy studies on Islam. They had a tour of the Mosque, the library and the prayer halls. They were taught about the Mosque’s history as well as the core beliefs and the five pillars of Islam.

Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden

The Form 5 Da Vinci Club had an amazing visit to the Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden, Surrey. The garden exhibits an ever-changing collection of contemporary sculpture and the pupils went to practise their art skills.

Winchester Planetarium

Form 5 went to the Winchester Planetarium to explore ‘Space’ and go in search of the secrets of the universe. Whilst they didn’t come back with all the answers, they certainly came away enthusiastic and enriched.

Pupils explored the stars, solar system and black holes under the skies of the planetarium. They discovered how sound is made and transferred, how forces can be used, their thermal images and also further engaged with space by stepping into an astronaut’s suit. They finished the day with a masterclass in rockets.

Portsmouth Docks

In the summer of 1545 Henry VIII headed for Portsmouth to see his great warship the Mary Rose fight against the French fleet in the Battle of the Solent. Four hundred and seventy nine years later Cranleigh Prep School’s Form 5 followed an almost identical route down to the South coast to gasp in wonder and awe at the very same ship that was raised from the depths after tragically sinking in the battle.

After a grand day out, teachers and pupils returned with a greater knowledge and respect of the past, as well as a strong desire to go back to Portsmouth Docks as soon as possible.

Short Films

Form 6 actors and technical crew acted in and helped to make Warhorse and Animal Farm films in their free time.

We welcomed actor Edward Bennett, who was in the original War Horse in 2011. We were hugely grateful for his time and experience, especially when he directed our horse auction scene at the stables.

Port Lympne Zoo

Some Form 6 pupils had the opportunity to visit Port Lympne Animal Reserve in Kent. A safari, climate change talk and a tour of the different animal enclosures allowed them some well deserved enrichment to their learning.

Pitch Hill

Form 6 embarked on a journey to Pitch Hill in the Surrey Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty. This adventure was an enlightening exploration of the delicate balance between nature and human impact.

Pupils delved into hands-on activities, comparing heavily worn and less-used footpaths. Using many different types of equipment, they gathered invaluable data through infiltration tests, crosssectional analyses, vegetation surveys, and soil compaction tests employing a dropped steel pin.

After the scientific pursuits, they engaged in a fun mapping exercise, fostering teamwork and creativity in small groups. Laughter and enthusiasm echoed through the hills as they discovered the intricacies of the terrain.

Residential to Cobnor

Form 1 (Year 3)

Pupils had a fun-packed trip to Cobnor where they enjoyed several activities including archery, trampolining, sailing, orienteering, climbing and problem-solving.

The pupils enjoyed sharing dorms with their friends, eating delicious food and having a movie night.

‘It was exciting getting in a mini speed boat to take us to the sailing boats’

‘The climbing and archery activities were amazing!’

‘Watching ‘Horrid Henry’ in the evening was such fun!’

Residential to Cobnor

Form 2 (Year 4)

Form 2 developed skills in team building, thinking and resilience while away on their two-night residential to Cobnor Activities Centre, near Chichester.

They took part in a range of activities, both on and off the water in groups made up of children from across the year group. Favourite sessions included kayaking, rafted canoeing, climbing and aeroball.

Lots of fun was had by all!

‘I enjoyed tryingthings’new

‘I had the best time with my friends’

‘The water was very choppy when we went canoeing’

Residential to Mill on the Brue

Form 3 (Year 5)

What a fantastic residential this was from start to finish! The children threw themselves wholeheartedly into a wide range of activities, such as: canoeing; assault course; bush craft; low ropes

‘The best part was spending time with my friends and teachers doing awesome activities’

‘It’s a lovely place with magical activities. It was the best residential ever! I could go a million times and not get bored’

‘I loved the camp fire because we sang funny songs and I also liked canoeing because we could splash our friends!’

Residential to PGL Marchants Hill

Form 4 (Year 6)

At the end of the Lent term, Form 4 enjoyed a wonderful three days on their residential trip to PGL Marchants Hill. The children got a chance to enhance their independence, improve their communication and gain an appreciation for their surroundings. Everyone’s favourite activity was Giant Swing, where all the other team members hoist you high into the air before the exhilarating drop and swing over the tree tops.

‘I enjoyed getting a chance to develop new skills like orienteering and archery’

‘My favourite activity was climbing Jacob’s ladder, where the rungs get further apart at every level!’

‘On the sensory trail, we had to trust each other and rely on our other senses while blindfolded’

Residential to Avon Tyrrell

Form 5 (Year 7)

This year, Form 5 spent three days at Avon Tyrrell where they engaged in some fabulous leadership and character-building activities. They stayed in the last ever built Calendar House (a house that contains architectural elements in quantities representing the respective number of things within a year i.e. 365 windows (days), 12 chimneys (months), 7 outer doors (days per week) and 4 wings (seasons)), with its glorious grounds allowing them the space and freedom to explore, exercise and

Residential to Swanage

Form 6 (Year 8)

This year’s residential saw Form 6 returning to Swanage for a glamping extravaganza. The weather was kind on the whole although it was freezing at night.

There were some great fun activities including coasteering where the children were visited by a seal called Ron (Ronseal!), bush craft, paddleboarding and a visit to Dorset Water Park. A great time was had by all.

Lower School Christmas Celebration

The Lower School Christmas Celebration always hails the start of the festive season!

Form 2 delivered their poems with humour and style and a rousing rendition of The Virgin Mary had a Baby Boy.

Form 1 entertained with their Nativity It’s a Miracle! Their songs and narration were fantastic - there are sure to be some West End stars of the future!

Form 3 (Year 5) Frozen Production

Form 3 brought the magical land of Arendelle to life with their production of Frozen

A story of true acceptance between sisters and a cast of characters ranging from a singing snowman, to an evil Prince and a band of trolls.

The production was filled with magic, adventure and humour.

Form 5 (Year 7) Shrek the Musical

What a wonderful DreamWorks journey our Form 5s had with their production of Shrek the Musical!

The themes, the colour, the music and the characterisation were all brought to life with enormous enthusiasm, professionalism and, above all, a sense of fun! The commitment to the story, based on the animation picture and the book by William Steig, was a marvel to see and all those involved should be very proud

Musicians of all ages competed as soloists in the House Music Competition. Pupils enjoyed a full day of performances with adjudications from Cranleigh Music staff.

House Music Competition House Singing Competition

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of ABBA winning the Eurovision Song Contest, pupils performed classic ABBA songs. Spades won the unison song with their rendition of Waterloo and Diamonds won the part-song singing Take A Chance On Me. This was a hugely popular event inspiring the next generation of ABBA fans!

Choral Singing

Numerous choirs sang in a range of styles from pop to folk to classical. The Carol Service is always a highlight of the musical year. The choirs sounded beautiful in the Senior School Chapel.

One of our pupils sang as a member of the National Children’s Choir of Great Britain and another had a successful year with the National Youth Boys’ Choir –happy singing!

Informal concerts are always well attended and pupils of all ages perform their latest pieces in front of a friendly audience in the Chapel.

Concerts Autumn and Summer Concerts

These concerts showcase our larger ensembles and are always packed with variety and fun. This year featured the new school Symphony Orchestra, bringing together our best instrumental players in one group!

Concert Series

The Lower School concert series provides a platform for our younger pupils to experience professional music right here in school. In the Michaelmas term pupils were treated to an operatic adaptation of Marginalia Ensemble.

In the Lent term the Cranleigh School Big Band entertained us with a selection of classic jazz as well as some modern favourites.

The Summer term concert featured the world-famous Bones Apart trombone quartet. These trail-blazing professional female trombonists wowed the pupils with their skill and inspirational playing.

Dance

This year has been an exciting and successful one for the dance programme. Our pupils have achieved great results in their dance exams, both in RAD Ballet and ISTD Modern and Tap. Their dedication and hard work were evident in their performances and exam results, showcasing their progress and talent.

A significant highlight of the year was the informal dance display where the children had the opportunity to perform for parents and staff. This event allowed them to demonstrate the skills and routines they have been working on throughout the year.

Overall, it has been a year of growth, achievement and celebration for the Dance department.

Form 1 (Year 3)

Painting whilst being inspired by music

Musical abstraction

Form 2 (Year 4)

Cézanne felt art

Mackerel watercolours

Mackerel papier mâché models

Form 3 (Year 5)

Giant sock bugs

Dragonwatercolours

Bug watercolour and collage

Bug lino print

Form 4 (Year

6)

Japanese inspired vases

Form 5 (Year 7)

Cartoon abstraction

Form 6 (Year 8)

Selection of Form 6 artwork using different media

Form 6 (Year 8) Portraits

Form 6B

Form 6D

Form 6H

Form 6L

Form 6R

School Houses

This year’s House competition was fiercely contested across all year groups. Hearts usually led, while the other three Houses alternated in fourth place.

In the Michaelmas term, Diamonds narrowly won the swimming gala and Clubs triumphed in the House Challenge quiz over Spades. Diamonds also won the Townsend competition, but Spades excelled in the House Badminton tournament. Hearts dominated team sports, winning the overall term trophy.

During the Lent term, Hearts won the Cross-country competition, and Clubs excelled in the Spelling Bee and secured the first Girls’ Football trophy. For House Singing, themed

around Abba, Spades won the set song category with Waterloo, while Diamonds’ Take a Chance on Me won the Own-Choice category. Hearts emerged as the overall term winners again.

In the Summer term, Hearts began strongly by winning the Times Tables and a closely contested tennis tournament. Despite a strong start by Clubs in sports day, Hearts secured victory. They also won the handwriting competition, clinching

Charities

Follow us on

Pupils and staff have supported many different

AtHarvestFestival,pupilsbroughtinavarietyof foodstobedonatedtotheCranleighFoodBank.

OnChristmasJumperDaypupilsworetheirfestivejumpers andraisedmoneyforLondonYouthRowing.

PupilssupportedtheCranleighRotarycharityoperationChristmas

DayWearingdifferentcoloursonMufti donationsraisedawarenessofkindnessand collectedwenttoMomentum

Charity Day

ACE Programme (After Common Entrance)

SATRO Business Day

Form 6 (Year 8) were privileged to be given an excellent lesson in how businesses work by a group of trainers and volunteers from SATRO.

The pupils were asked to set up a presentation which promoted their company and to explain what they were trying to achieve. They also had to deliver a pitch for their brand and promote their merchandise. The pupils learnt a great deal about the workings of business, which should help them to future business success.

Bake-off

Just before the end of the Summer term, there was a great deal of excitement and slight nervousness in the Food Technology room: the Cranleigh Prep School 2024 Bake-off competition was taking place!

The finalists had to produce a cake based on how they see the environment of our world. The creativity and effort shown were phenomenal, making it a very tricky job for the judges.

The winning cake had one side showing a lush green world with no pollution versus a brown side depicting a polluted world.

iPad Workshop

Our freelance photographer showed some of the Form 6 (Year 8) pupils how to take creative photographs using their iPads. The photographers spent the morning capturing the environment around them, taking some exceptionally good shots of flowers found in the school grounds.

Careers Fair

Twelve professionals came to our Careers morning and worked with Form 6 (Year 8) pupils through presentations and hands-on workshops.

These included a vet, a commercial airline pilot, a national lacrosse player for GB and England, a waste water treatment company representative, a stunt performer and voice-over artist in the film, TV and media industries, a consultant psychiatrist, the CEO of GB News Limited, a senior cloud economist, a paediatric anaesthetist, an officer who served in the army (Royal Welsh Guards), a graduate engineer and a landscape architect.

What a mix of talent, and experience passed to our pupils! Lots for them to think about when working out what it is they might like to do in the future.

LAUNCH (Learning and Understanding New Challenging Horizons)

LAUNCH gives the children the opportunity to explore activities, ways of thinking and experiences beyond the curriculum.

The weekly variety on offer has been extensive and ranges from dog training to problemsolving, from baking to slime making. The children who engage in the activities are always amazed by how much they learn.

Whether that is learning about a new culture in biscuit making or discovering how fortunate they are to have clean water, this enrichment is a small part of the pupils’

Townsend Warner Prize

The Townsend Warner prize is an annual independent project given a different theme each year and this year it was ‘Feeding the World’.

Ninety-one pupils entered and, from these entries, forty-two pupils were given the recognition of Highly Commended and put forward to our final round of judging by Mrs Sam Price, Head of Cranleigh.

After careful consideration Mrs Price chose 12 winners from across the different school years. She looked for innovation, thought-provoking content, presentation and that ‘something extra’.

Impact Day

IMPACT Day highlighted how human activities have significantly impacted the Earth, leading to various environmental and social challenges.

The day was planned with various activities to ensure that there was as much exposure to new ideas as possible. Pupils used the planetarium to see and learn about how global warming is being driven by greenhouse gas emissions resulting in rising temperatures, melting ice caps and more frequent extreme weather events. The Art session led by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation showed our children that art can be used to highlight animals that are endangered due to poaching.

The ‘Ditch the Dirt’ activity highlighted that having close access to clean water remains a critical issue. In Humanities, they learnt about protecting and restoring our environment, creating seed paper bombs to help spread the message and restore our green spaces. Our Geography department highlighted how detrimental ‘fast fashion’ is to the environment due to its unsustainable production and consumption patterns. Finally, our History department took a different route and explored the decisions made before WWII and how they impacted the world in the months and years that followed.

This wide variety of activities has encouraged the children to think about how they can work together to make the best decisions to ensure that sustainable practices and global cooperation are at the forefront of our minds in order to protect our planet and its inhabitants.

Cranleigh Thinks!

Pupils have enjoyed their first CPS Thinks! day. CPS Thinks! is a cross-curricular day designed to promote all different types of thinking. Children learnt about the importance of thinking and reflection, and how it can impact their lives and others.

Leap into Languages

The extra day afforded by the leap year was the perfect opportunity for the School to go ‘off timetable’. Following the fabulous CPS Thinks! day, the language departments of English, French, Spanish and Latin, ably assisted by Music and Food Tech, came to the fore with the offering that was ‘Leap into Languages’.

Looking Back

Headmaster Neil Brooks and his wife Tracy have been at Cranleigh Prep School for seven years. As they entered their final term, we caught up with them and asked what had been their highlights during their time at Cranleigh, before they retire at the end of the Michaelmas term 2024. They also shared a piece of advice with pupils.

Mrs Brooks Highlights

• Zambia 2019. In Michaelmas half term

Neil and I had the privilege of helping with the Cranleigh Schools Lower Sixth trip to Zambia to see first-hand the incredible work done out there by Beyond Ourselves.

Returning to normal after Covid.

The Form 5 production of Lion King 2018.

A pupil at Sports Day 2021 who was winning the race when one of the other runners fell. Rather than carry on and win, the pupil went back to help his friend up and they crossed the line together. A real An Officer and A Gentleman moment.

House Cross Country. I love running and have really enjoyed being able to run with the children every year.

The staff Christmas skits.

Meeting Terry Waite after his inspirational lecture.

Advice

The piece of advice I would leave is “Don’t take yourself too seriously. Giggling is great. Infectious giggling is the best!”

Mr Brooks Highlights

• Watching the children achieve their aims, especially when they work as a team either on the stage, on the sports field, in a musical ensemble or any other school activity.