Girls Enjoying Success

2025 - 2026 Highlights: Junior School Philosophy

Philosophical enquiry has continued to flourish at Channing Junior School, earning the school renewed Bronze Award status from Thoughtful. Guided by the 4C principles of Caring, Collaborative, Creative and Critical thinking, pupils develop confidence, curiosity, empathy and independence. Across the year groups, they have explored increasingly challenging questions about friendship, happiness, responsibility, leadership, fairness, freedom and bias. Activities linked philosophy with subjects including History, while structured discussions encouraged respectful listening, reasoned arguments and thoughtful disagreement. By embedding the Channing Characteristics within philosophy, the school empowers pupils to question assumptions, consider alternative viewpoints and become reflective, resilient and independent lifelong thinkers.

2025 - 2026 Highlights: Psychology

It has been an outstanding year for Psychology at Channing, shaped by curiosity, ambition and enthusiasm for understanding the human mind. Year 13 students explored neuroscience and human-computer interfacing with Dr Guy Sutton during Brain Day, while distinguished lectures from Professors Francesca Happé MBE and Tali Sharot examined autism research and optimism bias. Students also demonstrated their independent scholarship through new editions of the departmental magazine, Neuro Narratives, covering topics from procrastination to family breakdown. Using virtual reality headsets, they explored innovative approaches to exposure therapy, combining established psychological theory with emerging technology and gaining valuable insight into future clinical practice.

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.