Dear Parents
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who so kindly supported us during the recent 4+ assessments. Your presence in the waiting room and willingness to share your experiences with prospective parents were truly invaluable. Many visiting families commented on how much they appreciated hearing directly from current parents and your warm and welcoming approach left a lasting impression.
One of our supportive parents shared, “It meant a lot to me to give back to the prospective parents today, as it was such a key part of our decision-making process last year. We were so grateful to have the chance to see the premises, meet the team and talk to current parents but most importantly, to meet the Year 6 girls giving the tours, as it allowed us to picture our little one in the future.”
The atmosphere you helped to create in the waiting room was described as positive, inclusive and supportive – qualities that are at the heart of our Channing community. Comments like these are a wonderful reminder of how special and collaborative our school truly is.
The feedback from prospective families has been overwhelmingly positive. They spoke so highly of the warmth and care evident throughout the process, from the thoughtful organisation of the day to the small but meaningful touches such as tea and biscuits and the little gifts like drawing kits for the children. One family said, “We are continually impressed by how exceptional Channing is. The Year 6 girls who showed me around were true ambassadors for the school. They were confident, friendly, warm and intelligent. It was also lovely to meet other prospective parents and current parents who provided invaluable insights.”
Our Year 6 girls were simply outstanding as tour guides. Their poise, eloquence and enthusiasm for school life shone through, and I could not be prouder of them. They truly exemplify the very best of our Channing spirit. One parent commented, “The Year 6 girls giving the tours were so impressive – friendly, articulate and such wonderful ambassadors for the school. It was easy to picture my daughter thriving here because of their example.”
The overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received has been uplifting and affirming. It highlights the exceptional community we have built together at the Junior School – a community where warmth, inclusivity and care are at the forefront. I am extremely grateful for your support, which played such a key role in making the 4+ assessments a success.
Now comes the most challenging part: choosing who to offer places to! It’s incredible to think that the girls joining Reception in September 2025 will graduate as the Class of 2039!
This morning in assembly, Mrs Hughes unveiled our new strategic objectives and vision for Channing 2035 to your daughters, the Classes of 2031 to 2038. For those who attended our special evening event last week, it was a pleasure to see you. I hope you found it insightful to learn about the journey we’ve undertaken and our plans for the next decade.
If you were unable to join us, I encourage you to watch Mrs Hughes’ 15-minute film that beautifully captures the vision: Watch the film here or visit the dedicated page on our website: Strategic Objectives.
Thank you once again for your ongoing support and commitment to our community.
With warm wishes
Miss Dina Hamalis
Head of the Junior School