Chatting with Channing

Channing School

Welcome to our podcast series, the place to learn and discover more about our school and where we speak to staff, pupils, alumnae and parents. If you have any questions please do contact the school through the main website.

  1. Anna & Molly discuss Hadestown, the school musical.

    06/11/2025

    Anna & Molly discuss Hadestown, the school musical.

    Anna and Molly, two sixth-formers at Channing, discuss their experiences auditioning for and preparing to perform in the musical Hadestown. They share insights into their backgrounds, the audition process, the emotional highs and lows of landing roles, and the challenges of balancing schoolwork with rehearsals. The duo reflects on their growth in confidence, teamwork, and the supportive environment fostered by their drama department. They also emphasise the importance of feedback and collaboration in the creative process, encouraging younger students to participate in drama and take advantage of the opportunities available to them. As they look back on their favourite productions and share their aspirations for the future, they express excitement about the upcoming performance of Hadestown. Takeaways Anna & Molly both have a strong background in drama and have participated in multiple productions.The choice of Hadestown was influenced by its themes and musical demands.They emphasise the importance of camaraderie in the drama community.Auditioning for Hadestown was a significant moment for both of them.They discuss the challenges of balancing schoolwork and rehearsals.Confidence and teamwork have been key areas of growth for them.The rehearsal process is demanding but rewarding, especially with a large cast.They encourage younger students to get involved in drama.Both have aspirations to continue their creative pursuits in the future.

    28 min
  2. 14/10/2025

    Autism research with Professor Francesca Happé

    In this episode of Chatting with Channing, Professor Francesca Happé discusses her journey into psychology and autism research, her pioneering theories on theory of mind, and the evolving understanding of autism, particularly in women and girls. She highlights the importance of mental health, trauma, and the role of genetics and neuroscience in autism research. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about autism, the impact of research on education and policy, and the significance of global collaboration and public communication in the field. Professor Happé shares valuable advice for young researchers, emphasising the importance of collaboration and resilience in their careers. Takeaways Professor Happé's interest in psychology was sparked by reading Freud's work.Her early experiences in autism research solidified her passion for the field.Theory of mind is a critical concept in understanding autism.Autistic individuals may experience trauma differently than neurotypical individuals.There is a growing awareness of autism in women and girls.Genetics and neuroscience play a controversial role in autism research.Misconceptions about autism, such as the belief that autistic people lack empathy, persist in society.Research findings need to inform education policy and clinical practice.Global collaboration is essential for advancing autism research.Public communication is vital for sharing research insights with the community.

    21 min
  3. 26/09/2025

    Empowering Students with SEND: Strategies and Support

    In this conversation, Marisa Gardiner, Head of the SEND Department, discusses the comprehensive support provided to students with special educational needs and disabilities at Channing School. She explains the importance of adapting learning environments, involving students in their own learning plans, and collaborating with external specialists. The conversation highlights the school's ethos of inclusion and the various strategies employed to ensure that all students can thrive academically and socially. Takeaways Marisa oversees provisions for students with special educational needs and disabilities.The SEND team works closely with teachers to adapt lessons for accessibility.Personal learning plans empower students to take ownership of their learning.Screening tests help identify potential learning needs but are not diagnostic.Tracking progress involves data analysis and student feedback.Collaboration with external specialists is crucial for tailored support.Access arrangements aim to remove disadvantages in assessments.Transition processes are in place to support students moving between schools.Channing School's ethos emphasises inclusion and high aspirations for all students.Marisa's journey into education began with volunteering and a passion for supporting students. Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/

    23 min
  4. 01/07/2025

    Kandis Nelson: Empowering Young Athletes

    Summary In this conversation, Kandis Nelson, Director of Sport at Channing School, shares her journey into sports education, her role in promoting physical education, and the importance of resilience and teamwork in sport. She discusses the diverse range of sports offered at the school, the support available for pupils of all ability levels, and the initiatives designed to encourage a lifelong enjoyment of sport. Kandis highlights the importance of mindset in competitions and outlines her future plans for the PE department, including support for elite athletes and the enhancement of extracurricular opportunities. Takeaways Kandis' journey into sports education began with a passion for netball.The role of Director of Sport includes organising a variety of sports activities and lessons.Physical education is essential for developing resilience and teamwork among pupils.Success in sport is not solely defined by winning, but also by personal development and learning.Channing School offers a broad range of sports to cater for all pupils’ interests.Extracurricular activities play a key role in nurturing a love for sport.Support for elite athletes includes flexible timetabling and tailored training programmes.A positive mindset in competitions focuses on performance rather than just outcomes.The PE department is committed to maintaining a strong curriculum, despite wider challenges in education.Kandis is passionate about promoting mental health and well-being through sports education. Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/

    26 min
  5. 22/05/2025

    Alumnae, Maddy and Saskia Discuss Their Film: Type of Rain

    SummaryIn this conversation, Maddy Hookway and Saskia Steinberg reflect on their return to Channing School and the journey of creating their film Type of Rain, which explores themes of grief and healing. They discuss the impact their film has had on audiences, the challenges of producing a short film, and the therapeutic benefits of cold-water swimming. The discussion underscores the importance of community support, the lasting legacy of their friend Rosie, and the ongoing collaboration between the two filmmakers as they continue to craft meaningful stories. TakeawaysReturning to Channing School evokes feelings of nostalgia and reflection.Creating Type of Rain was a collaborative effort grounded in personal experience.The film explores grief and healing through powerful storytelling.Cold-water swimming provides a therapeutic outlet for both filmmakers.The film’s impact resonates with audiences, helping to foster community connections.Producing short films presents unique challenges that require careful intention.Rosie’s legacy continues to inspire and unite their community.Support from Channing School has been instrumental in their journey.Future collaborations are planned, including a feature-length film.Embracing authenticity and owning one’s story is vital for personal growth. Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/

    30 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to our podcast series, the place to learn and discover more about our school and where we speak to staff, pupils, alumnae and parents. If you have any questions please do contact the school through the main website.