Foundation receives wonderful contribution

Ben Hughes, Cranleigh parent and Global Commercial Director and Deputy CEO of the Financial Times, gave the Cranleigh Foundation a significant early boost on 5th February when he presented a cheque for £70,000 to Head, Guy Waller.

Foundation Director, David Johnston, is delighted with this generous gesture and display of confidence in the School’s future. ‘The faith that the Hughes family have shown by way of this truly momentous contribution will make such a difference to the way we go forward in achieving our charitable ambitions. The community and the School will see significant changes and benefits over the coming years and on behalf of the Foundation and all its future beneficiaries I wish to say a huge thank you.’

Ben himself explains the motivation for his action.
‘There are many things that are important in life to a parent, but all stem from a desire to give our children every possible opportunity to develop as people and to develop their talents. I had the benefit of a private school education myself, and my own parents made a lot of sacrifices to enable me to do so. As with Cranleigh, the ethos of my own school was to develop as much as possible the special gifts of each pupil, whether academic, sporting or musical. As with every pupil at Cranleigh, I was given every opportunity to make the very best that I could of my abilities.

‘Already I can see the amazing amount of good that both Cranleigh Prep School and Cranleigh School have done for our twins. Watching them grow up and develop into young adults, with all the self-confidence that entails, is a joy. Every penny invested in their education at this age will pay rich dividends in their future lives. Along, I’m sure, with all the other parents at the Schools, I am very proud of what my children are achieving at Cranleigh and firmly believe that the School is doing what is ultimately best for all our children. And, where that is concerned, I don't mind putting my money where my beliefs are and donating to the Foundation.

‘The Cranleigh Foundation has a valuable role to play in the development of children who can be given a chance they would not otherwise have to be educated at Cranleigh. Funding bursaries can widen the net and bring children to Cranleigh from all walks of life. If donations like mine can help to encourage this, and also help to build even more and better facilities at Cranleigh School for all pupils present and future, then that has to be a good thing. Doesn't it?’