
The school has evolved from a bold vision in 2014 to a thriving international institution today
PARTNER CONTENT: As Cranleigh Abu Dhabi celebrates its 10-year milestone, the occasion marks more than academic accolades; though there have been many.
It honours a school that set out to nurture not just high achievers but kind, grounded, and globally aware young people.
Since its founding in 2014, Cranleigh has embraced the ethos of its UK counterpart: that education should foster character, confidence, and compassion alongside academic achievement. A decade on, that vision has taken vibrant shape in Abu Dhabi.
International breadth
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is deeply tied to its founding school in the UK; not just in name but in spirit. From the beginning, the Cranleigh UK Board played an active role in ensuring that the Cranleigh Family foundations were translated and carried with integrity.
“There was never a sense of copy and paste,” says James Dale-Adcock, International Development Director. “It was about bringing Cranleigh values to life in an Abu Dhabi context.”
That authenticity is visible in cross-campus initiatives such as international exchanges, performing arts competitions, joint concerts, and staff visits. These are more than cultural showcases; they form meaningful bonds that connect Cranleighans across borders.
Emirati culture, Arabic language, and Islamic Studies are embedded in the student experience. “It’s not just about being located in Abu Dhabi,” says Principal Tracy Crowder-Cloe.
“It’s about belonging here. We grow through collaboration, staying rooted in our conviction while evolving with context.”
A culture that connects
Like Cranleigh UK, the Abu Dhabi campus was founded not only as a school but as a cultural and community hub. Ten years later, that vision remains unchanged.
Strategically located on Saadiyat Island, surrounded by institutions such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat, and soon the Guggenheim and Zayed National Museum, the school integrates its surroundings into everyday learning.
“We are not just neighbours to these landmarks; we are participants,” says Laura Brown, Vice Principal – Partnerships and Engagement.
Students use their surroundings not only for enrichment but also as an extension of the classroom, joining turtle patrols on the beach or sketching in the galleries of Louvre Abu Dhabi.
But the deeper heartbeat of the community lies within. “It’s not just the big events,” says Brown.
“For us, community lives in smaller moments. Stay-and-play mornings, parents reading in classrooms, coffee with leadership, and open-door showcases all contribute to an inclusive, synergistic culture.”
That openness is intentional. “Parental engagement is a critical partnership, with strong links to improved student attainment,” she adds. This partnership also extends to teacher exchanges and shared programming with Cranleigh UK and new campuses in China.
“Now Cranleigh UK is learning from us, too,” Brown notes. “That’s the strength of being part of a truly international family of schools.”
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A human-centred legacy
Cranleigh’s identity is built on belonging. In a school of over 90 nationalities, shared principles connect the community.
“Rooted in our identity is a deep commitment to our collective ethos – character, unity, and integrity. This has been the foundation here since 2014,” says Tracy Crowder-Cloe. “When you maintain that strength of culture, anything is possible.”
Performing arts, sport, service, and leadership are regarded as pillars of learning. Students are encouraged to step onto the stage, compete on the field, lead their peers, and make meaningful contributions to their community.
“We measure success by how students carry themselves, how they care for others, and how they find their voice,” adds Damien Ward, Head of Senior School.
This whole-child philosophy shapes the school’s day-to-day rhythm. “We offer flexibility and space to explore,” Ward continues.
Students apply confidently to universities around the world, choosing not just prestige, but places where they will thrive and make a difference.
Many pursue service-focused courses or global opportunities. “They know how to articulate their purpose,” says Ward. “They care about society and want to give back.”
From service-led EPQs to enrichment experiences tagged with skill development, Cranleigh is also moving toward personalised, values-aligned reporting.
Families will soon receive insights not only on academic achievement but also growth in resilience, creativity, and collaboration.
Looking ahead: The next 10 years
Cranleigh’s journey has mirrored that of Abu Dhabi – intentional, principled, and adaptive. The next chapter promises greater pace, reach, and global connectivity.
But the heart remains the same. “Our next five years will move faster than the last ten,” says Tracy. “But we are ready because we have built something with soul. And that’s what endures.”
Cranleigh’s 10th anniversary isn’t just a celebration – it’s a living legacy. One built with care, guided by community and driven by purpose.
For further information, visit Cranleigh Abu Dhabi
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