Word from the Head – 12 December 2025

Please find below the Extra & Co-curricular Timetable for the Spring term;

Extra & Co-curricular Activities – SpringTerm Timetable 2025- 26

During PE lessons:
Earrings may be taped if necessary, and students must provide their own tape.
Exception: Trampolining and Gymnastics – no jewellery is permitted at all.

For all fixtures:
All jewellery must be removed, including earrings.
Earrings cannot be taped for fixtures.
If a pupil is unable to remove their earrings, they will unfortunately not be able to participate.
These expectations follow national sporting guidance.

Please find attached a letter outlining upcoming timetable changes to school bus route 603, effective from Monday 5 January 2026. These changes follow feedback from schools along the route and are intended to improve alignment with end-of-day schedules.

603 Update letter.pdf

Year 7 & 8 – don’t miss the ultimate night of music, dance and sparkle, on Saturday 28 February 2026, 6:30 – 8:30pm in Channing Senior School Sports Hall.

Theme: Glow & Glam. Shine bright, sparkle up, and hit the dance floor in your best glow-up look!

What’s included:

• Live DJ dropping the best beats
• Street dancers bringing the moves
• Photo booth fun
• Chocolate fountain dreams
• Popcorn & candy floss galore

…and loads more — ALL included in your ticket!

Tickets: £25 + booking fee

• On sale for Channing Year 7 & 8 students: Friday 23 January 2026 at 6.00pm
• On sale for Non-Channing Year 7 & 8 friends: Friday 30 January 2026 at 6.00pm

The Channing Association would like to extend a huge thank you to all the girls that submitted pudding label designs and to all those that purchased Channing puddings this year. In addition to the enjoyment of a Channing Pudding, we raised over £1000, the donation shared between Great Ormond Street Hospital and Crisis at Christmas. All puddings should now have been delivered.
Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday.

The CA

Due to popular demand we are hosting an additional secondhand uniform sale on Wednesday 21 January, 4-5pm in the Dining Hall.

We have a huge range of stock in excellent condition and at fantastic prices. Buying secondhand is great for the environment, great value and helps us raise funds for school events and our designated charities.

£10 per item of sports kit
£5 per brown skirt or jumper
£5 for 2 school shirts

If you have clean, ironed uniform(s) to donate, please bring it to the office. If possible please remove name tags – but only if you can do so without removing the size label.

Card payments preferred. See you on 21 January!

Last week the collages were of the Monday students, this week here are the Tuesday students. We have the largest cohort ever taking LAMDA this year – with 68 Year 7-9 students opting to develop their creative, communication and collaboration skills. They have chosen duologues from the classics such as Shakespeare, Oscar Wilde and J B Priestley through to contemporary playwrights such as Lizzie Nunnery and Winne Holzman, and have put immense amounts of creative energy and hard work into creating their own original interpretations. From the dynamic performances and insightful peer feedback they are on track to exceed last year’s excellent results.

On Thursday 4 December, Sixth Form students kicked off Channing Christmas with a burst of festive fun, decorating stockings and cookies. The Sixth Form Centre was buzzing with excitement and sparkling with Christmas spirit as we busily prepared for everything the coming week has in store. Joy was not just present; it was at the forefront of it all!

On Tuesday 2 December, the Year 12 Art History class took a trip to the Victoria & Albert Museum. Our visit focused on sculpture, particularly examples which explored the relationship between man and nature. We were lucky to see the works of Giambologna, an artist we have studied closely in class. We also sought out the famous copy of Michelangelo’s iconic David. The art historians had a great time – it was a really informative trip!

Amelie, Year 12

Brass Christmas Carols
We were treated to festive carols and Christmas songs played by our wonderful Brass Ensemble, led by Mr Dodds on Tuesday morning. They performed early in the morning at the Junior School and then in the Senior School during morning break.

Music at Lunchtime
After a short hiatus, Music at Lunchtime returned (and left) last week with a bang – literally! The final lunchtime recital of 2025 highlighted Channing’s talented percussionists and woodwind players, with an eclectic but very entertaining lineup. First up was Percussion Ensemble – Destina S and Alice BP from Year 7, Edie C from Year 9, Naomi F from Year 10, and Renata RA from Year 11 – directed by Mr Alan Brown. They played Mitchell Peters’ Title March of the Eagles, which certainly lived up to Mr Boxall’s description: “not quiet but very exciting”. The group navigated complex rhythms with ease, and created thrilling climaxes.

Next up was Georgie M from Year 11, who played Ravel’s Piece en Forme de Habanera on the clarinet. Georgie captivated the audience with her expressive interpretations of the soaring melodies in the piece. To follow was Senior Flute Ensemble: Amelia Z and Charlotte R from Year 9, and Georgie V, Indy D, and Eleanor C from Year 11, and coached by Mrs Hattie Jolly. The group played two movements from La Caccia by Telemann, and demonstrated impressive chemistry through their beautifully blended sound. Finally, Renata RA returned to the stage for a solo performance to end the concert. She played Vernon Reid’s Love Rears its Ugly Head, a fusion rock song which stood in stark contrast to the rest of the concert. There was definitely noticeable head banging in the audience during this upbeat performance!

Overall, Music at Lunchtime last week was a powerful way to close out the term, and to kick off the Channing Christmas festivities! We look forward to another year of lunchtime recitals to come. Do listen HERE.

Carol Concert
The candlelit procession in which the Chamber Choir sang In Dulci Jubilo gave a magical start to our Carol Concert in St Michael’s Church on Monday afternoon. The entire Senior School were in attendance and heartily sang those traditional carols from ‘We

Three Kings’ to ‘Hark the Herald’. With a superb ‘Once in Royal’ solo from Annabel D in Year 7, thought provoking readings on the theme of love selected by Mrs Wilkinson – the sublime voices of the Chamber Choir and Cantemus Chorus coached by Miss Bacon, the youthful enthusiasm and musical excellence of the Conabor Choir, and contemplative bidding prayers from Rev Kate Dean all contributed to a beautiful concert of Christmas music. Do watch the video HERE.

Pupil Success
A triple whammy MFL success in the 2025 Global Poesiae Recitation Competition:
Julia H was the Global Winner of Italian (Year 8) with her recitation in Italian.
Millie W was the Global Winner of German (Year 10) with her rhythmic and engaging recitation of Heine’s Die Lorelei with authentic pronunciation.
Imogen B was the Global Winner of German (Year 11) with her heartfelt rendition of Goethe’s Erster Verlust.

EPAS Strasbourg Trip
Last week, Mrs Steinberg, Mrs Zuluaga and Ms Gomez took 22 Y10-12 students on the EPAS trip to Strasbourg, as we were invited to take part in the Euroscola event at the European Parliament, due to us being an EPAS school. Here are some accounts from our students about what we did during the trip, and how they found the experience…

The trip to Strasbourg was an incredible experience, with us having the opportunity to talk with many people from different countries in the parliament. We spoke on many important matters in the world, like the safeguarding of people online and women’s rights. I learned so much by getting to hear others’ views and opinions on these matters. It was incredible being in a room with so many interesting people.

Imogen K, Year 10

I would just like to say thank you to Mrs Steinberg, Mrs Zuluaga and Ms Gomez, for an unforgettable trip to Strasbourg. The visit to the European parliament was the most interesting and inspiring experience, where we learned how the European democratic system works from someone who was a part of it. I enjoyed the debates and learned different techniques of how to persuade and structure my arguments which I use now at school. I also loved seeing how enthusiastic everyone was and meeting people from all over Europe to come together. Of course, I also loved the beautiful historic village of Strasbourg, its architecture was incredible and its food was even better. I am so grateful for the opportunity and hope to go back one day.

Scarlett C, Year 10

Our trip to Strasbourg was really fun and enriching! We enjoyed many activities from the Euroscola day at the European Parliament, where we were able to learn about EU democracy, hear from the Vice President of the Parliament herself and meet, converse with and debate other students from all over Europe in both English and the MFL languages we have been learning, to visiting the Strasbourg Christmas markets with delicious food and warm drinks! It was both fun and festive, as well as an educational trip, as we were able to mix language lessons with trying out our language skills in real life to meet new people and explore new places. Seeing the city, getting an understanding of the history on a tour, meeting local people at markets and witnessing the centre of European politics was an amazing experience for all of us!’

Darcy G, Year 12

During our time in Strasbourg, we had the incredible opportunity to visit the European Parliament, where we spoke with several experts and took part in a cybersecurity debate alongside students from across Europe. We ended the day at one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets, enjoying traditional Alsatian dishes as we explored the stalls. The following morning began with language lessons, followed by a visit to the strikingly gothic Strasbourg Cathedral (Notre-Dame) and a relaxing boat tour through the city. Overall, it was an inspiring and memorable trip, with fascinating sights and meaningful encounters with people from many different backgrounds.

Leila, Year 11

Last week we had the EAL game session that we hold every term, where we usually play Scrabble, eat pizza and have a nice time for the whole of lunchtime! The library seminar room was a perfect place for that, as there was a lot of space and it was well-lit. That time, our group was small, but we had a lot of fun and discovered new vocabulary in the process. Overall, it was an amazing opportunity to connect with people from other year groups, especially for the new year 7 students.

Kira S, Year 12

Reading Websites for KS3, KS4 and KS5
To inspire and support students’ reading this term, we’ve launched brand-new websites for Key Stages 3, 4 and 5. Packed with recommendations, they provide everything students need for form-time reading, competitions, volunteering opportunities to support younger readers, and all the latest news from the book world.

Dr Hayward is also seeking budding journalists and social-media whizzes to help create and shape future content—an ideal opportunity for students who enjoy writing or are considering careers in publishing, marketing or journalism.

Please encourage your child to visit the websites regularly. Reading often—and for pleasure—boosts wellbeing and academic attainment across the curriculum, helping young people grow into confident, critical thinkers.

Key Stage 3

Key Stages 4 and 5

Year 7 and 8 Independent Reading Project
In the English Department, Ms Donnington and Ms Ramsden have been busy organising next year’s Independent Reading Project for Years 7 and 8. Drawing on feedback from last year’s focus group, they have curated a diverse and engaging reading list. Students have now selected their top four titles and will be placed into groups next term. Each group will read their chosen book together and work towards creating a presentation, with the winning presentations shared in year-group assemblies.

Research suggests that one reason young people sometimes lose interest in reading for pleasure during their teenage years is the belief that it’s an isolated activity. At Channing, we’re committed to challenging that perception by creating opportunities for students to enjoy reading as a shared, social experience.

With that in mind, you may like to take a look at the reading lists for the Independent Reading Project and chat with your child about the books they’ve chosen—and perhaps even read alongside them.

Year 8 Reading List

Year 7 Reading List

Social Impact Autumn Term Round-Up
This autumn has seen our Partnership Clubs programme continue to grow in vibrancy. Pupils from Brookfield, St Joseph’s, Highgate and Whitehall Park Primary Schools joined Channing students for a rich mix of after-school activities, including Science, Problem Solving, German and Minimus. Each club brought children together across schools and year groups, giving them opportunities to build confidence, practise teamwork and explore subjects in more creative ways. The response from pupils has been enthusiastic across the board. Scientists experimented with hands-on investigations (with slime proving a memorable highlight), while our linguists immersed themselves in new vocabulary and mythological stories. Problem Solving Club remained a hit, offering pupils the chance to tackle mathematical problems that encouraged logic, collaboration and resilience.

Our secondary school partnerships were equally energising. St Aloysius’ College’s new Year 7 co-ed cohort embraced their clubs with real commitment, participating in Robotics, Dance and Chess throughout the term. Students from Parliament Hill and La Sainte Union also attended our Latin course, working steadily towards their formal qualification. A notable new addition this term was the DJ Club for Year 10 students from both Channing and St Aloysius, offering a practical introduction to DJ technology and exploring its role within the contemporary dance-music industry. Another new initiative this year, the HNCP Hub brings together selected pupils from partner schools for 1:1 mentoring. Early sessions have shown strong engagement and positive peer relationships forming across the group.

Sixth Form volunteers have been instrumental in ensuring the success of the after school clubs and activities alongside the HNCP hub. Their engagement, enthusiasm and commitment have been key to the building of relationships with our partner schools. Pupils also supported two key community celebrations: the Highgate Christmas Lights Switch-On – starring Harry Potter-actor Rupert Grint and media personality Alex Zane – and the traditional Highgate Christmas Carols. Volunteers, singers and musicians from across our school contributed warmly to both events, strengthening our involvement in the local community.

The series of Communitea events started for another year and, for the first time, welcomed volunteers from Year 9. Their involvement brought a new energy to these gatherings. With afternoon tea catered by the Channing catering team, lively conversations, answers to everyday tech questions and plenty of laughter, this year’s Communitea events built on the success of the previous series. Organised jointly by Channing and Highgate Newtown Community Partners, the monthly receptions offer a warm, intergenerational space for local residents to meet and feel part of the wider community.

Finally, thank you to the Channing teaching and non teaching staff for their valued commitment and contribution to Social Impact at Channing.

Jennifer Kung
Director of Social Impact

Gabriel Felder
Social Impact Coordinator

Cards for Care
Year 9 students have been working incredibly hard for the Cards for Care initiative. They have created a beautiful collection of hand-crafted cards for the residents of Highgate Care Home. This project not only encourages kindness and creativity, but also helps to bring warmth and connection to those who may feel isolated at this time of year. We are extremely proud of the care, thoughtfulness, and holiday spirit Year 9 have poured into their work, and we know their messages will help brighten the holiday season for others in our community.

Channing Christmas STEM Lecture
Last Thursday, we were delighted to welcome Dr. Russell Arnott, the marine biologist, to deliver the annual Channing Christmas STEM Lecture. He took us on a fascinating journey, exploring the incredible “superpowers” of sea creatures, from tiny plankton to the enormous blue whale. Dr. Arnott spent the entire afternoon meeting with different year groups to talk about his studies, his career path and the ocean environment.

He started at lunchtime with our Sixth Formers, offering great insights into STEM degree choices and what life is like studying Marine Biology and Oceanography at university. Then, the Junior School had a whale of a time! Years 4 to 6 learned all about these majestic creatures and even tried to make a sound as loud as a sperm whale. While the noise level was pretty deafening they still have a long way to go to reach 240 dB! Dr. Arnott finished his afternoon talks with Year 11, comparing the underwater environment to life in space. They discussed pressure, temperature, and how organisms adapt to these extreme conditions.

Dr. Arnott was interviewed by Lucia Kidel and Lara Grosman for “Chatting with Channing” (the episode will be released in February so keep your eyes peeled for that) before heading back to the Arundel Centre to deliver his main lecture. We heard about the noisy pistol shrimp, the incredible endurance of the nautilus, and even the beards of whales. It left everyone in the audience (students, parents, and staff) with a deep appreciation for the unique marine environment, how much of it is still a mystery, and how essential it is to protect it for the future.

We were very pleased that so many people stayed after the lecture to chat further with Dr. Arnott over some lovely mince pies and mulled wine before heading out into the cold night.

Sports This Term
This term has been an incredibly busy and rewarding one for School Sport, filled with a wide range of extracurricular clubs and fixtures. It has been fantastic to see so many students throwing themselves into new activities, trying different sports, and committing their time and energy each week.

A major highlight has been the introduction of swimming into our programme. Our dedicated swimmers have been getting up extra early to swim before school, working hard to refine their technique and showing impressive determination.

Our dance students have also enjoyed their first set of workshops with Thrive, which have been a brilliant addition to the already vibrant dance opportunities at school. These sessions will feed perfectly into the Channing Cheer, Dance, and Gymnastics Showcase, which will return in the summer term.

Across all sports, we have already taken part in over 100 fixtures, with more than 50 students representing the school. We have celebrated some fantastic highs, progressing through competition rounds, while our losses have provided valuable learning moments to help us improve and develop.

We are incredibly proud of all our students for their enthusiasm, hard work, and commitment this term. We are very much looking forward to the spring term, where our extracurricular clubs and fixtures will continue to thrive.

Netball: City of London School for Girls B and C Tournament
On Friday 5 December all of the girls in the B and C team went to a netball tournament at City of London School for Girls. It was very fun and everyone enjoyed it. The C team came 4th and the B team came 1st. We played against many different schools including City of London School for Girls and Queen’s College.

Written by Sadie H

We came across this wonderful album from the 1890s and therein is a charming sketch and poem written by an alumna named Dorothea in July 1895. Walks on the Heath among the dogs will be viewed through a much more imaginative lens from now on, I dare say!