In 2017, Cranbrook School embarked on a historic journey by reintroducing Year 7 students after nearly five decades. This pivotal moment marked a new chapter in the school's storied 500+ year history, setting the stage for a diverse and enriched educational experience. These initial Year 7 students, now in Upper Sixth form, stand on the cusp of a significant transition, poised to step into the world beyond a Cranbrook education.

As these students navigated their way from the foundational years of secondary education through to the challenges and rigours of Sixth Form, Cranbrook School itself underwent a transformation. The inclusion of younger students infused new energy into the school community, impacting everything from academic approaches to co-curricular activities. The journey of these students mirrors the evolving landscape of the school, reflecting a symbiotic growth in both educational ethos and student development.

Reflecting on his journey, Harry Hamerton-Stove remarked,

"My 7 years at Cranbrook have passed in a blur, Year 7 feels as though it was yesterday, and it feels too surreal to be leaving 'so soon'. My parents always told me I would miss school and I could never imagine that being the case, but now I know I will." 

His words highlight the profound impact of his time at Cranbrook and the unexpected emotional attachment to the school. 

(Above from left to right: Edward Scobbie, Harry Hamerton-Stove, Sophie Lock, Leah Foster & Arabella Cogswell)

The academic journey of this cohort has been remarkable to say the least! Throughout their time at Cranbrook, they have witnessed and contributed to the school's sustained academic excellence. In 2018, the school reported an impressive average Attainment 8 score of 68.4, significantly higher than local and national averages, underscoring the school's commitment to high academic standards. This academic rigour, coupled with a diverse array of co-curricular opportunities, has nurtured a well-rounded and resilient group of young individuals. 

However, the journey was not without its challenges. The global pandemic that swept across the world in 2020 brought unprecedented disruptions. These students, along with their teachers and the entire school community, had to rapidly adapt to new ways of learning and interacting. This period tested their resilience and adaptability, qualities that they developed remarkably well. The pandemic period became an integral part of their educational journey, teaching them valuable lessons in perseverance, adaptability and the importance of community support. 

As Sophie Lock shared,

"Despite seeing many students complete their A-Levels and move onto the next stages in their lives, I wasn't expecting the time I've spent at Cranbrook to pass so quickly and had never really considered that eventually it would be our turn to leave. In my seven years at the school, Cranbrook has very much become my home, providing a supportive and nurturing environment, helping us all through so much."

Her reflections illustrate the deep sense of community and support that Cranbrook fosters in its students. 

Now, as they prepare to finish their Cranbrook journey, these students are a testament to the school's successful expansion of its age range. Their experiences, from the initial adjustment to being the youngest in a predominantly older environment to becoming the senior students, provide invaluable insights into the journey of growth and adaptation. As they look towards university and beyond, they carry with them not just the knowledge and skills gained but also the unique experience of being the trailblazers in this new era for Cranbrook School. 

The school, in turn, has adapted and grown with these students. From refining its teaching methods to accommodate a younger age group to witnessing the emergence of new traditions and clubs catalysed by this change, Cranbrook has embraced the opportunities presented by this expansion. As this inaugural cohort of Year 7 students prepares to leave, they leave behind a legacy that will continue to shape the school for years to come. 

Their impending departure is not just a personal milestone for each student but also a marker of the school's successful adaptation and growth. As these students embark on their next journey, they do so as embodiments of Cranbrook's values of kindness, integrity, curiosity, aspiration and individuality, ready to make their mark on the world. 

For Sophie, the journey has been transformative:

"Although leaving Cranbrook seems daunting, I'm very excited for my next steps and will carry with me the values the school has taught us wherever I go next. This is where I found myself, learnt who I am as an individual, a young adult."

Her words capture the essence of what Cranbrook aims to instil in its students – a strong sense of self and a readiness to face future challenges with confidence. The Cranbrook Effect!