On Friday the 21st of September the School was fortunate to be able to welcome HRH Princess Alexandra and esteemed guests for her second visit to the School, the first being in 1984.On arrival, she was enthusiastically greeted by the Headmaster, members of the Common Room and friends of the School and she chatted kindly to the hosts. 
As HRH was escorted through the Quad, she commented on how impressed she was by the School’s beauty, and it was at this point we had the privilege of meeting HRH. We walked with HRH to the Common Room where photos were displayed of her previous visit, alongside the plaque which commemorates the visit. HRH then enjoyed being taken on a tour of the Art School, where she viewed current pupil’s work with interest.
On entering the Chapel HRH was introduced to Mr Wilson, the Headmaster of Cranleigh Prep School, and a pupil from each year group at the Prep School. In Chapel, a large cross-section of the School and local community came to see HRH unveil the plaque that now commemorates the Queen’s diamond jubilee and her own visit to the School. The Prep School choir impressed everyone present through their beautifully sung rendition of an anthem by John Rutter. To thank HRH, a form one pupil at the Prep School presented HRH with a posy, bringing the Royal visit to a close.
On departure, HRH was seen off by the House Captains of the six boarding houses. HRH spoke to all of them, all with genuine interest as she had throughout her visit, speaking to almost everyone she saw.
The visit was highly successful and, although brief, was thoroughly enjoyed. Hopefully it will bring luck to the School when it celebrates its fast-approaching 150th anniversary!
Emily Robinson & Will Yeeles (Senior Prefects)
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