The campus provides a campus where children can be curious and explore the world around them
PARTNER CONTENT: Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is a forward-thinking school that embodies a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a passionate commitment to educational excellence.
In her welcome message to the Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Community, Tracy Crowder-Cloe, Principal, echoes this sentiment, saying, “A blend of tradition and innovation ensures Cranleigh maintains a happy and relaxed atmosphere where children can enjoy their education and fulfil their goals.”
It is such values that Caroline Mather, Head of Pre-Prep, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, says “underpin everything that we do at Cranleigh; families choose our school because of the strong Cranleigh community.
“They want an environment where their children can be curious, explore the world around them, and be valued for the unique individuals they are. This holistic approach is at the heart of our vision.”
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Actively seeking to evolve, develop and innovate in terms of its unique offering, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi has embarked upon designing an entirely new, state-of-the-art Pre-Prep campus, designed specifically with younger pupils in mind.
Located next to New York University Abu Dhabi and set to open in January 2024, the new Pre-Prep campus is unique in many ways, not least in terms of the design and the design process itself.
“The entire school cohort has been involved, including educators and parents,” says Caroline. “Importantly, however, the children themselves have also been involved in the process.”
Through dedicated workshops, children shared their design ideas, particularly regarding the outdoor spaces.
“We asked the children what they would like to see in their learning environment, and the sort of elements that would support their development and the way they learn.”
“Consequently, architects, expert Aldar Properties project managers, the team of educators and the school students have designed an exceptional Pre-Prep school campus that wholly lends itself to the holistic-learning approach for which Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is renowned,” adds Tracy.
A unique design ethos
The Pre-Prep newbuild includes well thought out learning spaces to allow fluidity and freedom. With attention to detail in the functionality of the building, teachers can prioritise their focus on the learning experience for the children.
The hands-on design details also amplify the already innovative curriculum on offer at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi. The most important design element is the flowing space internally and externally.
“Learning spaces in the classroom can, for example, be opened up into a shared, indoor learning space that is accessible from all the classrooms to aid whole school learning,” says Caroline.
“The outdoor space, which has been specifically designed for three- to seven-year-olds, includes a range of adventure play opportunities to help develop their gross motor skills and confidence. It’s important to note that the outdoor areas are not just a play space; it’s a learning environment.”
The outdoor space also includes a winding terrace and ramps, leading to a huge play deck.
“This is where some of the children’s designs come into play, such as built-in trampolines and different zones, such as quiet reading dens, free play or adventurous play.
“Design cues are taken from the UAE environment, providing as much a natural feel as possible. “The architects explored different aspects of Abu Dhabi, such as the rolling sand dunes of the desert, the ebb and flow of the tide on Saadiyat Beach and the circular shade structures to emanate Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Calming, natural tones have been applied to the interiors. Consequently, the design of the new Pre-Prep school includes soft, circular architecture and shades that allow dappled light to seep through,” says Caroline.
Dedicated learning support spaces
In terms of facilities, the new campus will house a 25-metre swimming pool, a multipurpose hall, a fully bespoke library with English and Arabic provisions, a Music room and Arabic specialist teaching rooms, among others.
“There are various spaces dedicated to learning support too,” says Caroline. In terms of staffing, all existing Pre-Prep staff will also relocate.
“They are individuals that the children are familiar with,” says Caroline.
Along with the classroom teachers, specialist staff will also be making the move, such as the Arabic and Islamic staff team, the Swimming, PE and dedicated Music teachers.
“The new campus is strategically situated near the Prep and Senior campus,” Caroline adds. “Operationally and academically, things will remain centralised and seamless for our community.
“Our school is built on people, connection and strong moral values. That does not change with a new campus.
“Our Pre-Prep family remains closely integrated with the Prep and Senior schools through whole school events and communication, and of course the Cranleigh values and skills that bind us as a school unit.”
For more information about Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, please visit cranleigh.ae
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