Girls Enjoying Success

2025 - 2026 Highlights: Politics

It has been a dynamic year for the Politics Department, with students engaging in debate, analysis and political events beyond the classroom. Visits to Parliament, the Supreme Court and the POLECON Student Conference offered valuable insights into democracy, justice and political debate. Channing students also attended three Model United Nations conferences, with Alex and Phoenix receiving individual awards. Sixth Form students welcomed former Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable for a thought-provoking talk and question-and-answer session. New co-curricular opportunities included the PPE Society and Channing Sunrise, where students discuss global issues and debate the day’s headlines over breakfast each week.

2025 - 2026 Highlights: Junior School Music

Music at Channing Junior School has flourished through a joyful, hands-on approach that encourages every pupil to listen, create, perform and participate. Highlights included orchestral storytelling in Reception, original compositions in Year 1, a new Year 2 wind and brass programme, folk dancing, djembe performances and an energetic Year 5 samba parade. Key Stage 2 pupils developed ambitious digital compositions, while Young Voices, excellent ABRSM results and the Folk Band’s public debut provided memorable performance opportunities. Performing Arts Leaders championed music across the school, supported by a thriving programme of choirs, orchestras, chamber groups and specialist ensembles for all pupils.

2025 - 2026 Highlights: Music

Music has been at the heart of Channing life this year, with students sharing their talent through concerts, masterclasses, tours and performances. Highlights included an inspiring practice masterclass with Dr Cameron Roberts, an unforgettable tour to Croatia, spectacular orchestral and choral concerts at St Joseph’s and St Michael’s, and vibrant evenings celebrating jazz, chamber music and musical theatre. From emerging GCSE performers to accomplished A Level musicians, students demonstrated confidence, creativity and commitment. We are immensely proud of everyone who contributed, supported one another and created so many memorable musical moments for performers, families and audiences across the Channing community.

2025 - 2026 Highlights: MFL and Inclusion Highlights

From Reception to Year 6, pupils enjoy a rich Modern Foreign Languages curriculum designed to build confidence, curiosity and cultural understanding. Spanish begins through songs, games and everyday vocabulary before progressing to grammar, verbs, practical communication and the study of Spanish-speaking countries. French is introduced in Year 3, developing from greetings and numbers to family, leisure, daily routines and increasingly complex grammatical structures. Beyond the classroom, Inclusion Week and International Women’s Day activities celebrated individuality, equality and ambition. Together, these experiences encourage pupils to communicate confidently, appreciate different cultures and recognise that every member of the school community is valued.

2025 - 2026 Highlights: Modern Foreign Languages

It has been an exceptional year for Modern Foreign Languages at Channing. Students achieved national and international success in poetry, translation, essay writing and creative competitions, while new Rewards Breakfasts celebrated our Fearless Linguists. University visits, alumnae talks, debating, book clubs and partnerships expanded learning beyond the classroom. International trips to Strasbourg, Normandy, Berlin, Munich, Vienna, Aachen and Cádiz offered authentic opportunities to speak languages, explore cultures and build independence. From debating at the European Parliament to cooking paella and learning to waltz, students embraced every challenge with curiosity, confidence and enthusiasm throughout 2025–26, becoming 10% braver along the way.