Cranleigh International and Cranleigh School UK have announced the appointment of Mrs Sarah Matthews as the new Principal of Cranleigh Abu Dhabi. Mrs Matthews will take up her post in August 2026, succeeding outgoing Principal Tracy Crowder-Cloe.
The appointment follows an extensive international recruitment process and reflects Cranleigh Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, holistic education, and strong leadership.
Extensive leadership experience in the UK and internationally
Mrs Matthews is a highly respected school leader with significant experience in senior management across K to 12 schools in the United Kingdom and internationally. She is currently the Headmistress of the multi award winning Truro High School.
A graduate in Philosophy and Religious Studies, she has gained national recognition for her engaging teaching style and has received awards for the excellent examination results achieved by her students. Her current school has been recognised by Fortune as one of the top 250 boarding schools in the world, alongside being named a winner in the National Independent School of the Year Awards and receiving national awards for Science and Technology and Early Years education.
Mrs Matthews has also held leadership roles in prominent UK independent schools and at Harrow International School, Hong Kong, one of Asia’s leading schools. This experience has given her a strong understanding of the cultural nuances that influence education in international contexts.
Sam Price, Head at Cranleigh School, commented on the appointment, saying:
“Sarah is an outstanding leader in education with an impressive CV that includes high performing schools in the UK and abroad. She’s a great fit for Cranleigh Abu Dhabi. Sarah was the standout candidate amongst an exceptional field of educators interviewed during the recruitment process. I look forward to introducing her to the Cranleigh Abu Dhabi team in person later this month.”
Vision for Cranleigh Abu Dhabi
Speaking on her appointment, Sarah Matthews said:
“Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is a wonderfully successful school and I am honoured to have been appointed as Principal of such a vibrant and forward-thinking institution that is so committed to the holistic development of the students and unashamedly ambitious for each and every one. I look forward to continuing the commitment to excellence in everything that has been established at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi over the founding decade and building on the firm foundations forged by the exceptional team there. I’m grateful to outgoing Principal Tracy Crowder-Cloe for the strong position she leaves the school in for me. I look forward to spending time at the school next week and also at Cranleigh School in the UK in the coming months as I prepare for my move in August.”
Transition and Acknowledgment of Outgoing Principal
After three successful years at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, Mrs Tracy Crowder-Cloe will be leaving the school in July. The school has confirmed that time will be taken later in the year to recognise her outstanding contribution and celebrate her achievements during her tenure.
Governance and Wider Sector Contributions
Cranleigh School UK and Aldar Education worked closely with recruitment specialists Odgers on this executive appointment. Beyond her school leadership roles, Mrs Matthews serves as a governor for a foundation of co educational schools and holds a Director level role with the Girls School Association, where she acts as Honorary Treasurer.
Her appointment marks an important new chapter for Cranleigh Abu Dhabi as the school continues to strengthen its position as a leading British curriculum institution in the region.
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