Chatting with Channing

Summary In this conversation, Kandis Nelson, Director of Sport at Channing School, shares her journey into sports education, her role in promoting physical education, and the importance of resilience and teamwork in sport. She discusses the diverse range of sports offered at the school, the support available for pupils of all ability levels, and the initiatives designed to encourage a lifelong enjoyment of sport. Kandis highlights the importance of mindset in competitions and outlines her future plans for the PE department, including support for elite athletes and the enhancement of extracurricular opportunities. Takeaways * Kandis' journey into sports education began with a passion for netball. * The role of Director of Sport includes organising a variety of sports activities and lessons. * Physical education is essential for developing resilience and teamwork among pupils. * Success in sport is not solely defined by winning, but also by personal development and learning. * Channing School offers a broad range of sports to cater for all pupils’ interests. * Extracurricular activities play a key role in nurturing a love for sport. * Support for elite athletes includes flexible timetabling and tailored training programmes. * A positive mindset in competitions focuses on performance rather than just outcomes. * The PE department is committed to maintaining a strong curriculum, despite wider challenges in education. * Kandis is passionate about promoting mental health and well-being through sports education. Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool [https://www.facebook.com/channingschool] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school [https://www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/ [https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/]

SUMMARY In this conversation, Maddy Hookway and Saskia Steinberg reflect on their return to Channing School and the journey of creating their film Type of Rain, which explores themes of grief and healing. They discuss the impact their film has had on audiences, the challenges of producing a short film, and the therapeutic benefits of cold-water swimming. The discussion underscores the importance of community support, the lasting legacy of their friend Rosie, and the ongoing collaboration between the two filmmakers as they continue to craft meaningful stories. TAKEAWAYS * Returning to Channing School evokes feelings of nostalgia and reflection. * Creating Type of Rain was a collaborative effort grounded in personal experience. * The film explores grief and healing through powerful storytelling. * Cold-water swimming provides a therapeutic outlet for both filmmakers. * The film’s impact resonates with audiences, helping to foster community connections. * Producing short films presents unique challenges that require careful intention. * Rosie’s legacy continues to inspire and unite their community. * Support from Channing School has been instrumental in their journey. * Future collaborations are planned, including a feature-length film. * Embracing authenticity and owning one’s story is vital for personal growth. Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool [https://www.facebook.com/channingschool] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school [https://www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/ [https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/]

Summary In this episode of Chatting with Channing, alumna and Royal Navy Lieutenant Commander Anna Plant shares her remarkable journey from Channing School to her current role in the armed forces. She discusses key moments from her school days, the winding path to her career in the Navy, leadership lessons, life at sea, and reflections on identity, resilience, and purpose. Anna also offers advice to her younger self and touches on themes of emotional awareness, gender, and personal fulfilment in service. Takeaways • Anna Plant attended Channing School from 1997 to 2004. • Her favourite subjects were history, politics, chemistry, and PE — except Latin! • A history teacher, Miss Pate, had a profound influence on her academic and personal development. • Channing traditions like skipping out, the school song, and poetry competitions were memorable. • Anna’s journey to the Royal Navy included studying chemistry, working in various jobs, and volunteering as a special constable. • Leadership skills were developed early through university projects and later strengthened through Naval service. • She’s most proud of moments where her leadership and judgment positively influenced her teams and outcomes. • Life in the Navy is often misunderstood; much of the work happens on land and includes intense planning. • Anna reflects on the challenges of being one of the few women in male-dominated environments, and how it shaped her identity and visibility. • Living aboard ships impacted her lifestyle and reduced her connection to trends like streaming services. • Receiving mail or care parcels during deployment can be deeply meaningful. • The most fulfilling part of her work is seeing tangible impact and serving alongside purpose-driven people. • Channing helped her appreciate teamwork, self-worth, and the unique talents each individual brings. • Her advice to her younger self: “You don’t know what others are going through — be kind, and don’t worry if you don’t have it all figured out.” Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool [https://www.facebook.com/channingschool] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school [https://www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/

Summary In this episode of Chatting with Channing, Jade Francis, the alumni engagement and archive manager, shares her journey and experiences at Channing School. She discusses the importance of community, the role of Channing Connect in connecting alumni, and inspiring stories from former students. Jade also highlights the significance of the school's archives and her personal passions outside of work. takeaways * Jade emphasizes the supportive and family-like community at Channing School. * The school values individuals as whole persons, not just their roles. * Channing Connect serves as a vital platform for alumni engagement. * Events are organized to keep alumni connected and involved with the school. * Alumni stories often reflect the impact of teachers on their lives. * The archives hold significant historical value and personal memories. * Jade is passionate about mental health and therapeutic practices. * She enjoys music, travel, and outdoor activities. * The importance of being present and resilient in today's fast-paced world. * Jade encourages alumni to reconnect and share their experiences. Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool [https://www.facebook.com/channingschool] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school [https://www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/

In this episode of Chatting with Channing, Year 12 history students Ariella and Opal interview Professor Tracy Borman, a distinguished historian and Chief Executive of the Heritage Education Trust. Professor Borman shares her journey from her passion for history ignited by her A-level teacher to her prestigious career overseeing iconic sites like the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace. The conversation explores the influence of women on Elizabeth I, the relevance of history for young people today, and misconceptions about Henry VIII. Professor Borman also reflects on the balance between historical accuracy and creative storytelling in media. Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool [https://www.facebook.com/channingschool] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school [https://www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/