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Dear Parents & Carers
This morning’s assembly was one of those joyful occasions that reminds me just how special our school community is. It was wonderfully pupil-led from start to finish, full of confidence, warmth and enthusiasm. There was a real sense of pride in Fairseat Hall and it was a lovely way to begin the week together.
We began with a fantastic performance from our Year 6 girls, who sang songs from their recent production of Oliver!. Their energy, talent and enjoyment were infectious, and they had the audience captivated from the first note. It was such a pleasure to see them perform again and to celebrate all that they had achieved through the production. Opportunities like this are so important, not only because they allow the girls to develop their performance skills, but also because they build confidence, teamwork, perseverance and a real sense of accomplishment. It was particularly special to see our younger girls watching with such admiration and excitement. Moments like this really do inspire them and help them to see what they too can aspire to as they move through the school.
Our Channing Character Champions, from Reception to Year 6, then introduced our new Channing Character definition posters, which will soon be displayed around the school. This was a moment that made me feel incredibly proud because it so clearly reflected the values and ethos that sit at the heart of life at Channing. The girls spoke with such confidence and clarity as they shared what each of our eight Channing Characters means in practice: showing empathy, taking responsibility, being brave, persevering, staying resilient, remaining curious, acting independently and treating others with respect.
These are not just words displayed on a wall. They are values that we actively teach, celebrate and encourage every day in classrooms, on the playground, on trips, in performances and in the many small interactions that make up school life. Our aim is always to help every girl understand that success is not simply about outcomes, but also about the kind of person she becomes along the way. We want our girls to know that it is important to be thoughtful and kind, to keep going when things feel difficult, to be willing to take risks in their learning and to support one another with generosity and respect.
The new definition posters are a lovely way of making this shared language even more visible around the school. They will help reinforce these messages for girls of all ages and I know many of them were excited this morning to see their ideas and discussions reflected in the final designs. Do look out for them on Trilby TV in the courtyard and around the school over the coming weeks.
Character education is something we care deeply about because we know that helping girls to develop confidence, kindness, resilience and independence is every bit as important as academic success. These qualities underpin all aspects of school life and are such an important part of preparing girls not only for the next stage of their education at the Senior School, but for life beyond school.
In fact, I recently had the pleasure of recording a podcast with fellow Heads about the importance of character in schools. It was a really interesting conversation about how schools can help children develop the confidence to step outside their comfort zones, embrace challenges and grow into thoughtful, capable young people. If you would like to listen, you can find it here:. Building Character and Adventure in Schools – Insights from Educators Across Continents – HMC (The Heads’ Conference)
This week, we also spoke to the girls about how they can apply for positions of responsibility for the Summer term, with the new post holders to be announced next week. These opportunities are such an important part of school life. We believe strongly in giving girls meaningful chances to lead from a young age. Leadership is not simply about holding a title; it is about learning to contribute positively to a community, to act with integrity, to listen to others and to take responsibility.
Whether the girls are leading in assembly, supporting younger pupils, helping with school events, representing their peers or taking on specific classroom and school responsibilities, these experiences help them to develop confidence and a sense of purpose. They also learn that leadership is about service, kindness and setting a positive example. These early experiences of responsibility help to lay the foundations for the confident, compassionate young women we hope they will become.
We were, however, delighted to announce our new Head Girls this week: Lucy H (6W) and Layal S (6KP). Both girls embody so much of what we value at Channing and I know they will be excellent role models for the younger girls as they take on this important role.
As we look ahead to St George’s Day, I would like to wish all those in our community who are celebrating a very happy St George’s Day. It is always a lovely opportunity to reflect on themes of courage, kindness and community, values that resonate so strongly with all that we seek to nurture in the girls each day.
Finally, I would also like to send our warmest congratulations to Ms Davari (Form Teacher) on the arrival of her baby daughter, Myla. We are thrilled for her and send good wishes at this very special time.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support. It is a privilege to work in partnership with you and to see the girls thrive in such a positive, nurturing and inspiring environment. I look forward to all that this term will bring.
With warm wishes
Miss Dina Hamalis
Head of the Junior School
