Cranmore feedback

[Nacool82]

Hi. Currently looking to register our 6 year old at Cranmore and keen to hear current thoughts of the school from parents.

Honestly, I heard lots of negative things about it from friends a couple of years ago BUT this was with the last Head who had been there a long time. I think he has retired now and they’ve also changed the school by merging with St Theresa’s so I’m sure things could be better?
This is all second hand information- hopefully current parents can help more.

Friend of a parent. Diamond model disaster is what he calls it. They had to “persuade” the school(s) to keep their girls only class in place when the merger took place, since then, having bought some time, a number of the girls have been looking to leave, our friend has recently secured a place at one if the Guildford area schools. Health warning that this comment only relates to the St Theresa's merger and how badly it was handled. There’s lots of other older threads on here with similar details in that. On a day to day basis I wouldn’t know, and I’m sure some parents will enlighten. As a new parent the debacle I speak of probably won’t effect you. Best of luck looking.

Thanks everyone for the feedback

I find it very sad that what used to be two great schools are now a bit of a mess. Cranmore used to be the really strong option for boys who wanted more space than Lanesborough or lived out that direction. Now it is nothing like what it used to be. Lots of disappointed parents who would just be happy with a co-ed or single sex school, but all the site changing and switching and indecision is a nightmare.
Friend with DC there is looking to move them once covid improves.
It is the same with The Royal School who are now really struggling and selling off buildings. Diamond model does not work!!

My son is at Cranmore and I cannot rate it highly enough. The pastoral care he has received is amazing and academics are strong. The merger came as a shock and I know a number of girls left however the new head is strong and their online learning was exceptional during lockdown.

@Surreybubble I’ve heard that the online stuff was much improved this time round, from a friend there, so second hand, but a reliable source none the less. Glad to hear you’re son is doing well, cranmore has always been a nice place, I think the whole merger thing sadly affected the girls more than the boys, that what I also hear from the friend. I do know a number are looking to leave or have left for Guildford area schools and are much happier. I hope the new head, who you rate, manages to pull back their reputation and stop the trickle of girls departing.

Just joining this thread as we are also thinking of sending our boys to Cranmore September this year, into Year 1 and Year 3. Have seen a lot of negative comments online about it being a pushy environment but that doesn't marry with the impression Ive got from the head of pre-prep and overall head, so I'm feeling uneasy.

Ex-parent here.
We had to remove both our children due to severe bullying and brushing under the carpet by teachers.
It’s an all rounder school, more sporty than academic. Facilities are great, depends on what you are really looking for.
Academic side is more of a good state school, sports facilities are excellent. Music is good but you can get the same in other schools as well.
My assessment and discussions with other parents, the school is more suitable for robust sporty children who can get on with bullying and react.
Recently got to know twins in Reception got left out in the forest school and teacher took the numbers and had no clue whatsoever. Found out only when the twins made their way to classroom. Reps asked the teacher to let other parents know of this incident but this was as usual brushed under the carpet.
They preach kindness but it’s not practised.
More focus on average kids, above average and below average are left out. This was our experience (both kids kind and above average in top set) and other parents. Have witnessed parents in tears due to bullying. Heard really bright kids move out by Year 3 as by that time parents realise. Saying that some of our kids’ friends stay on they feel it’s okay especially with the hassle of moving out now.
Just got in to look for some other info and saw this post on Cranmore. My previous login I forgot so just got registered to share this. Personally had I known these issues before I would not have made my children go through what they had to. Bullying may be there everywhere so Cranmore is not alone in that respect but what’s sad is how Cranmore handles it compared to other schools.

If anybody currently with children at Cranmore would like to contribute to a review I'm writing of the school for The Good Schools Guide, please contact me privately. All in confidence. Many thanks