Advertise on podcast: Chatting with Channing

Rahim Hirji joins the Channing School podcast to discuss staying human in the age of AI. He shares his career journey from banking into education technology, his early encounters with AI in China in 2012–2013, and the frameworks he's developed to help people navigate an AI-shaped future. The conversation covers the risks of outsourcing our thinking to machines, the human skills that will become more valuable as AI grows, and practical advice for students, parents, and school leaders. Rahim's Book"Super Skills: The Seven Human Skills for the Age of AI" — based on research with 200+ companies over the last 2–3 years. Available at all good bookstores (https://thesuperskills.com)

In this episode of Chatting with Channing, host Arabella Northey is joined by Grace Mitchell (Development Manager), Jennifer Kung (Director of Social Impact), and two Year 13 students, Ruby and Layla, to discuss Channing School's newly launched Social Impact Fund and the difference it's already making.

Discover how Asti Wagner transformed her childhood shyness into a thriving business. In this inspiring conversation, she shares her educational background, the inception of Invyted, and lessons learned along the entrepreneurial path. Key topics: Asti’s early school experiences and overcoming shyness at ChanningHer favourite subjects: maths and economics, and their influence on her careerThe journey post-university: from studying economics to building InvitedHow the idea for Invited was born from personal frustration with booking processesNavigating university life during COVID and gaining real-world experienceThe entrepreneurial mindset: risk-taking, fearlessness, and starting youngBuilding a business with family support and in-depth market researchThe importance of learning from mistakes and resilience in startupsThe rapid growth of Invited and plans for international expansionAdvice for students and parents: embracing passions and making the most of school years Links: https://www.invyted.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/asti-wagner-246249175/

In this episode, we sit down with the art department at Channing School to talk about their individual creative practices and an exciting upcoming staff exhibition. The Exhibition Do What No Other Can Do celebrates the creativity and individual artistic practice of Channing's art and design colleagues. The exhibition runs at the Avison Gallery, Highgate High Street, from 19–24 May, 1–5pm daily.

In this episode we're talking to Tim Marshall, a journalist and author. He was the longstanding foreign affairs editor and later diplomatic editor for Sky News, during which time he reported from thirty countries and covered the events of twelve wars. He has reported from across Europe, the United States - covering three US Presidential Elections - and Asia, as well as from the field in Bosnia, Croatia and Serbia during the Balkan wars of the 1990s. In addition to his journalism career, he is a prolific author. His best-selling books include Prisoners of Geography, Divided: Why We’re Living in an Age of Walls, and The Power of Geography, which explore how geography shapes the course of history and international relations. Interviewing him today will be our students, Imogen and Stevie.

It’s a pleasure to welcome Tali Sharot, a professor of cognitive neuroscience whose work sits at the intersection of psychology, neuroscience, and human behaviour. Tali is Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London, where she also directs the Affective Brain Lab, and she is Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She is an award winning author of 3 books and internationally recognised for her research on how emotions shape our decisions, beliefs, and perceptions of the future, and for her ability to translate cutting-edge science into insights that are both accessible and deeply relevant. Over to Psychology students Bella and Emily who are going to interview her!

Welcome to Chatting with Channing. In this episode we will be talking to Dr Russell Arnott. Dr Arnott holds a degree and a Masters in Oceanography. His career has spanned from working as a survey oceanographer to retraining as a science teacher and serving as Head of Physics. Leaving teaching to start Incredible Oceans, an organisation that aims to educate as many people as possible about the importance of our ocean. Dr Arnott went on to a PhD in phytoplankton dynamics at the University of Bath. He has worked at the University of Cambridge and is currently an Associate Lecturer in Ocean Science at University of Exeter and Falmouth University's Marine & Natural History Photography course. Interviewing him today will be our student leaders Lucia and Lara. Links: www.channing.co.uk

In this conversation Dr Lisa Pine emphasises the importance of following one's passion in the field of history and academia. She highlights the richness of the subject and the vast opportunities for research, particularly in under-explored areas such as the history of Nazi Germany, the Second World War, and the Holocaust. Takeaways Girls should follow their passion in history.History offers diverse approaches and themes.There is much work to be done in archives.Interest in history can lead to a fulfilling career.The history of Nazi Germany is still under-researched.The Second World War has many unexplored topics.The Holocaust remains a significant area for study.Academia needs passionate individuals.Engaging with history can be rewarding.Pursuing a career in history is highly recommended.

Chiara Lewis reflects on her time at Channing, her passion for languages, and the importance of emotional intelligence in a technology-driven world. She shares her experiences studying at Cambridge, her year abroad in Paris, and her journey into journalism. Chiara emphasises the significance of resilience, self-belief, and cultural exchange, while also reminiscing about cherished traditions from her school days. Takeaways Chiara left Channing in 2021 after a long tenure since 2007.She fondly remembers her favorite subjects, particularly languages and English.Emotional intelligence is a crucial skill that technology cannot replicate.The decline in language learning is concerning for cultural exchange.Chiara's year abroad in Paris was transformative and challenging.She emphasizes the importance of saying yes to new experiences.Mistakes are part of the learning process and should not be feared.Living independently in Paris taught her valuable life skills.Chiara's journalism journey began with student publications at Cambridge.Channing traditions fostered creativity and community spirit.

Anna and Molly, two sixth-formers at Channing, discuss their experiences auditioning for and preparing to perform in the musical Hadestown. They share insights into their backgrounds, the audition process, the emotional highs and lows of landing roles, and the challenges of balancing schoolwork with rehearsals. The duo reflects on their growth in confidence, teamwork, and the supportive environment fostered by their drama department. They also emphasise the importance of feedback and collaboration in the creative process, encouraging younger students to participate in drama and take advantage of the opportunities available to them. As they look back on their favourite productions and share their aspirations for the future, they express excitement about the upcoming performance of Hadestown. Takeaways Anna & Molly both have a strong background in drama and have participated in multiple productions.The choice of Hadestown was influenced by its themes and musical demands.They emphasise the importance of camaraderie in the drama community.Auditioning for Hadestown was a significant moment for both of them.They discuss the challenges of balancing schoolwork and rehearsals.Confidence and teamwork have been key areas of growth for them.The rehearsal process is demanding but rewarding, especially with a large cast.They encourage younger students to get involved in drama.Both have aspirations to continue their creative pursuits in the future.

In this episode of Chatting with Channing, Professor Francesca Happé discusses her journey into psychology and autism research, her pioneering theories on theory of mind, and the evolving understanding of autism, particularly in women and girls. She highlights the importance of mental health, trauma, and the role of genetics and neuroscience in autism research. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about autism, the impact of research on education and policy, and the significance of global collaboration and public communication in the field. Professor Happé shares valuable advice for young researchers, emphasising the importance of collaboration and resilience in their careers. Takeaways Professor Happé's interest in psychology was sparked by reading Freud's work.Her early experiences in autism research solidified her passion for the field.Theory of mind is a critical concept in understanding autism.Autistic individuals may experience trauma differently than neurotypical individuals.There is a growing awareness of autism in women and girls.Genetics and neuroscience play a controversial role in autism research.Misconceptions about autism, such as the belief that autistic people lack empathy, persist in society.Research findings need to inform education policy and clinical practice.Global collaboration is essential for advancing autism research.Public communication is vital for sharing research insights with the community.

In this conversation, Marisa Gardiner, Head of the SEND Department, discusses the comprehensive support provided to students with special educational needs and disabilities at Channing School. She explains the importance of adapting learning environments, involving students in their own learning plans, and collaborating with external specialists. The conversation highlights the school's ethos of inclusion and the various strategies employed to ensure that all students can thrive academically and socially. Takeaways Marisa oversees provisions for students with special educational needs and disabilities.The SEND team works closely with teachers to adapt lessons for accessibility.Personal learning plans empower students to take ownership of their learning.Screening tests help identify potential learning needs but are not diagnostic.Tracking progress involves data analysis and student feedback.Collaboration with external specialists is crucial for tailored support.Access arrangements aim to remove disadvantages in assessments.Transition processes are in place to support students moving between schools.Channing School's ethos emphasises inclusion and high aspirations for all students.Marisa's journey into education began with volunteering and a passion for supporting students. Channing School Online: Facebook: www.facebook.com/channingschool LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/

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 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/

SummaryIn 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. TakeawaysReturning 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 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school Instagram: 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 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/channing-school Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channing_school/