Britannicast

In this special episode of Britannicast, we take a slightly different route—bringing you a lively and insightful panel discussion recorded during the recent Orbital Schools Leadership Conference.Joining us in the studio are three brilliant student voices and one teacher, representing Orbital schools from Slovenia, Spain, and Albania. Together, they explore what it really means to be part of an international school community—sharing perspectives that are thoughtful, funny, and occasionally surprising.This episode is a true celebration of global student voice and cultural exchange. Topics include:🇸🇮 🇪🇸 🇦🇱 Life in Orbital Schools Across EuropeWhat’s similar? What’s different? And how does each school shape student experience?🍜 Chinese vs European School Life (and Cuisine!)From canteen culture to classroom expectations—some fascinating comparisons!👔 The Great School Uniform DebateAre uniforms a unifying force—or do they suppress individuality? Expect strong opinions!🗣️ Leadership, Identity & Student VoiceWhat does leadership mean to young people today? And how can schools nurture it?😂 Plenty of Humour & Honest MomentsThis is a relaxed, unscripted conversation—so expect laughter, surprises, and genuine insight.Stick around until the end for something truly special—a fantastic Year 6 Rap Medley, produced with the help of our brilliant Music Department. It’s energetic, creative, and the perfect way to close out this international episode.Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, this episode offers a refreshing look at:The power of student voice in international educationThe importance of cross-cultural understandingHow young people today are thinking about identity, leadership, and communityinternational school podcast, student panel discussion, Orbital schools, student leadership conference, international education podcast, school uniform debate, student voice in education, global schools discussion, Britannicast podcast, school culture comparison, international students podcast, Year 6 rap performance, school music showcaseWe’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode!Join the conversation and connect with us:👉 Search “Britannicast” on your favourite podcast platform👉 Share your feedback through the school community channelsinternational school podcast, student panel discussion, Orbital schools, student leadership conference, international education podcast, school uniform debate, student voice in education, global schools discussion, Britannicast podcast, school culture comparison, international students podcast, Year 6 rap performance, school music showcase#Britannicast #InternationalSchool #StudentVoice #OrbitalSchools #LeadershipConference #GlobalEducation #SchoolLife #StudentLeadership #EducationPodcast #SchoolUniformDebate #CulturalExchange #Year6 #SchoolMusic #RapMedley #EducationMatters #PodcastForSchools🌍 What’s Inside This Episode?🎤 Special Feature: Year 6 Rap Medley🎧 Why You Should Listen🔍 SEO Keywords📢 Get Involved🏷️ Hashtags

In Episode 17 we tackle a question every student, parent and teacher has asked at some point: what is the point of homework? Harisha brings a senior-student perspective on workload, independence and university preparation, while Year 7’s Lianna explains how homework feels when you’re just getting used to secondary school. Head of Secondary and Vice-Principal Mr. O’Brien explains the school’s approach to homework — its purpose, how it supports learning, and the balance the leadership team aims for between practice and wellbeing. Expect a thoughtful, practical conversation that looks at routine, feedback, and tips for making homework more useful (and less stressful).We also celebrate community: the episode captures highlights from Britannica’s Chinese New Year festivities — student performances, cultural activities, and the ways the celebration deepens students’ understanding of Chinese traditions and shared identity. The result is a lively episode that blends policy, pupil voice and school life: principled insight from senior leadership, honest student experience across age groups, and colourful festival moments that show the school’s spirit.The featured interview is with Miss Liu, Britannica Shanghai's Deputy Head of Mandarin Studies.#Britannicast#BritannicaShanghai#HomeworkDebate#StudentVoice#ChineseNewYear#SchoolLife

So, it's a shortened Britannicast this festive month, as circumstances conspired against producing a full show. However, Britannica Principal Mr. Farrell is in the studio to talk through all things past, present and future. Talking of Christmas Carols, Igor from Year 9 visits the Winter Wonderland to take in the Festive Spirit.#Britannica #WinterWonderland #Classof25 #happynewyear

Episode 15 of Britannicast celebrates language learning and seasonal fun: Mister Smith is joined by Enrico and Aidana, plus EAL teacher Mister Edwards, to explore studying English as an additional language (EAL) and the recent Pumpkin Palooza / Halloween celebrations at school. The episode features an interview with Mrs. Crew‑Hall about English teaching at Britannica and closes with a special live cover by the Staff Band.Full show notesRecorded episode — timestamps removed.Episode highlights:Discussion about EAL strategies, classroom support and how we help international students build confidence in English.Reflections from Enrico and Aidana on their experience of Pumpkin Palooza — costumes, activities and how celebrations bring the community together.An in-depth interview with Mrs. Crew‑Hall on English teaching approaches, reading for pleasure and advice for learners and parents.A show-closing live performance: the Staff Band’s remarkable rendition of a David Bowie classic.EAL at Britannica focuses on practical language use, confidence-building and integration with mainstream lessons.School events like Pumpkin Palooza strengthen community bonds and provide creative learning moments outside the classroom.Mrs. Crew‑Hall shares top tips for encouraging reading and improving writing at home and school.The Staff Band demonstrates the school’s vibrant extra-curricular life with an energetic musical finale.Key takeaways (quick bullets)Britannicast Ep.15 — EAL learning, Pumpkin Palooza highlights and an interview with Mrs. Crew‑Hall on English teaching — plus a David Bowie cover by the Staff Band.Please contact Britannicast via our school website: BritannicaShanghai.com

Episode 14 of Britannicast brings student voices and staff insight together: Mister Smith is joined by Lianna (Year 7) and Shaswat (Year 11), plus Head of English Mister Arnold, to chat about studying English Literature (sorry Ted Hughes) and our exciting new facilities that were installed over the summer. Don't miss a fascinating interview with Mister Walker, Britannica’s Head of Art. We close with a beautiful classical performance from the Year 10 ensemble.New campus facilities enhance practical learning across art, music and English.Mister Arnold highlights teaching approaches that make literature accessible and fun for all year groups.Mister Walker outlines fresh opportunities for student artists, exhibition plans and portfolio-building tips.Student voices (Lianna & Shaswat) show real enthusiasm for the term ahead—and the Year 10 ensemble offers a lovely musical finale.#Britannicast #BritannicaShanghai #SchoolPodcast #StudentVoices #EnglishLiterature #SchoolArt #Year10Ensemble #EducationShanghai1tZPjrCHXWs8y3sHYRKo

Britannicast Episode 13 — End of Year Special: Exams, Options & Summer PlansIt’s the end-of-year roundup! Join Mister Smith for a warm, lively special with Gabriel (Year 8), Larysa (Year 11) and Mister Davis in the studio as we wrap up the academic year.🎓 Exams, Options & Next StepsWe discuss the recent exams—how they went, the feelings that followed, and practical advice for students choosing A-Level and GCSE options. Larysa shares her experience navigating Year 11 decisions, Gabriel gives a Year 8 perspective, and Mister Davis offers guidance for the road ahead.🌞 Summer Plans: Students & StaffWe chat to a variety of teachers and students about summer plans — from revision and enrichment courses to holidays, volunteer work, and passion projects. Expect honest reflections, practical tips for staying motivated, and ideas for a restorative break.🏃‍♂️ Featured Staff Interview — Mister Rudd (PE)Our spotlight interview this episode is with Mister Rudd, PE teacher. 🎵 Music updatePlease note: music in this episode uses AI-generated tracks for legal and copyright reasons.✨ Whether you’re a student making option choices, a parent supporting revision, or a teacher planning summer projects — this episode has practical tips, honest chat and plenty of encouragement.End of school year podcast, GCSE options advice, A-level choices podcast, exams reflections Year 11, summer plans for students, school holiday activities, student wellbeing after exams, PE teacher interview, Britannicast end of term, AI music podcast#Britannicast #EndOfYear #GCSE #ALevels #SchoolExams #StudentLife #SummerPlans #TeacherInterviews #PE #Wellbeing #EducationPodcast #AItracks #SchoolPodcast

Britannicast Episode 12: Pantastic, AI in Schools & Spotlight on MandarinHost Mister Smith is joined in the studio by Saanvi and Saif (both from 6B), along with special guest Miss Westoby – Britannica’s ICT teacher and the director of Pantastic, our brilliant new school musical. Together, they talk about the making of the show, what it’s like to retell J. M. Barrie’s Peter Pan in a fresh, modern way, and the challenges and joys of bringing magic to the stage. Plus, enjoy exclusive music from the production!The conversation doesn’t stop at musicals – the team dives into the big question of the moment: How should artificial intelligence be used in education? From classroom tools to creative opportunities, Mister Smith and his guests share thoughtful perspectives.This month’s featured staff spotlight shines on Miss Zhou, Britannica’s Head of Mandarin Studies. Hear about her teaching journey, her passion for languages, and why Mandarin is such an important subject in today’s world.✨ Whether you’re here for the behind-the-scenes of the musical, curious about the role of AI in learning, or keen to hear from our inspiring teachers, this episode has something for everyone.

🎙️ Britannicast Episode 11 – Chinese New Year Special 🧧🐉It’s time to celebrate! In Episode 11 of the Britannicast, Yuki (Year 12) and Harisha (Year 11) join Mister Smith to take you inside our school’s Chinese New Year 2025 celebrations.✨ What’s inside this episode:The story and symbolism of red packets (hongbao) — why they’re given, what they mean, and how they bring luck and prosperity.A lively showcase of our school’s Chinese New Year activities, with the sounds, music, and atmosphere of the festival captured straight from campus.A preview of what’s coming up in Episode 12, where we’ll finally sit down with Miss Zhao, Head of Mandarin at Britannica Shanghai, for an in-depth interview about Chinese traditions and the importance of the Spring Festival. (The interview was delayed due to some technical hiccups — but we promise it’s worth the wait!)Whether you know it as Chinese New Year, Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, this episode will bring you into the joy, culture, and community spirit of one of the world’s biggest celebrations.📌 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and subscribe to the Britannicast so you don’t miss the much-anticipated Miss Zhao interview in Episode 12!Chinese New Year 2025, Lunar New Year traditions, red packets hongbao, Spring Festival celebrations, Britannica Shanghai Chinese New Year, Mandarin language learning, student podcast UK international, school Chinese New Year activities, Britannica podcast episode 11, Yuki Year 12 Harisha Year 11 hosts#Britannicast #ChineseNewYear #LunarNewYear #SpringFestival #MandarinLearning #RedPackets #Hongbao #SchoolPodcast #BritannicaShanghai #GlobalLearning #StudentVoices #Year12 #Year11 #CelebrateCulture🔑 SEO Keywords📲 Suggested Hashtags

Our Christmas ’24 Special!Join Mister Smith in the studio with Year 8’s Igor, Year 6’s Saanvi and Britannica’s Director of Music Mister Muzyczka for a festive celebration of all things yuletide at Britannica International School Shanghai. We discuss favourite Christmas activities, seasonal music and movie picks, classroom activities and family traditions across the school community. Mister Muzyczka explains the double-edged relationship between music teachers and the Festive period. Igor and Saanvi offer pupil perspectives and top festive recommendations. Plus, secondary department heads set brain-teasing Christmas puzzles for listeners to solve. Perfect for families, students and staff looking for holiday cheer, playlist inspiration and a few brainy stocking-fillers. Subscribe, leave a review, and send your own festive snaps and puzzle answers.Merry listening and happy holidays from the Britannicast!#Britannicast #BritannicaShanghai #Christmas24 #SchoolPodcast #HolidayPlaylist #MisterMuzyczka #StudentVoices #ChristmasPuzzles #SchoolLife #HappyHolidays

In this episode, we take a deep dive into our After School Activities (ASAs): the clubs, sports and creative programmes that make student life at Britannica International School Shanghai buzz after the final bell. Year 12’s Adam and Year 11’s Harisha join ASA Coordinator Mister Boardman to explain how ASAs support wellbeing, university applications, skills development and everyday fun — from drama and robotics to choirs and football. We also speak with Kevin McNeany, founder and chairman of Orbital Education, about his life and the role of international education. Stick around for a cheeky finale: the Britannica Halloween Ball song. (Yes, we’re a week late, but heck..)This is an episode perfect for parents, pupils and teachers looking for ASA ideas, enrolment tips and real student voices. Subscribe, leave a review, and send your favourite ASA moments #Britannicast #BritannicaShanghai #AfterSchoolActivities #ASAs #SchoolLife #Extracurriculars #OrbitalEducation #KevinMcNeany #StudentVoice #MisterBoardman #Adam #Harisha #STEM #PerformingArts #SchoolPodcast #ShanghaiSchools #Education #AsaHartford #ScottishFootball

The final Britannicast before Summer ’24 celebrates science at Britannica International School Shanghai and wraps the 23/24 year with hands-on fun and community spirit. Year 10’s Hayden and Year 8’s Amy join Mister Linsell to discuss science at school, standout experiments and student projects. Roving reporter Igor interviews Head of Science Miss Tsang, who reflects on departmental achievements and teases next year’s plans. We close with the splashy highlights and winners from the annual Float the Boat competition — cheers, creative designs and end-of-term excitement. Perfect for families, students and teachers looking for STEM inspiration this summer. #Britannicast #BritannicaShanghai #SciencePodcast #FloatTheBoat #SchoolPodcast #STEM #STEMforKids #EndOfTerm #Summer24 #Hayden #Amy #MisterLinsell #MissTsang #StudentStories #SchoolLife

In this music-filled episode of Britannicast, the official podcast of Britannica International School, Shanghai, host Mister Smith welcomes Vivian and Larysa from Year 10, along with our Director of Music, Mister Muzyczka. Together, they explore the vibrant world of music education at Britannica, from classroom learning and ensemble rehearsals to live performances and special school events.Our Spotlight Interview features Igor from Year 7 speaking with Miss Ortiz.Listeners will also enjoy exclusive recordings from the recent Secondary Music Assembly, showcasing the exceptional talent and creativity of Britannica’s secondary students.📌 Episode Highlights:🎼 Insightful discussion on the role of music in the Britannica curriculum.🎤 Spotlight Interview: Igor (Year 7) interviews Miss Ortiz.🎵 Live student performances from the Secondary Music Assembly.Whether you’re a parent researching international schools in Shanghai, a student passionate about music, or an educator looking for inspiration, this episode captures the energy, creativity, and community spirit that make Britannica International School, Shanghai a leader in international education.🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share to stay connected with school life and events at Britannica!#Britannicast #BritannicaInternationalSchoolShanghai #InternationalSchoolShanghai #MusicAtBritannica #ShanghaiSchools #SchoolPodcast #MusicEducation #MusicInSchools #SecondarySchoolMusic #PerformingArts #StudentPerformances #MusicAssembly #ShanghaiEducation #SchoolLife #InternationalEducation #LearnThroughMusic #SchoolCommunity #ShanghaiEvents #StudentTalent #MusicInspiration

Britannicast – Episode 6: Girls and Young Women in EducationIn this powerful and inspiring episode of Britannicast, host Mister Smith is joined in the studio by an all-female panel: Vittoria (Year 8), Chloe (Year 13), and Miss Margot. Together, they discuss what it means to be a girl or young woman in today’s education system and the early stages of a professional career.💬 Topics include:Girls’ experiences at school and in leadershipStereotypes, pressures, and breaking barriersThe importance of female role modelsAmbitions, challenges, and career aspirations🎙️ PLUS: Exclusive interviews from "Unleashing Women’s Potential", the International Women’s Day event held at Britannica International School Shanghai on March 8. Hear reflections and wisdom from inspiring female voices from across industries.This episode is a celebration of International Women’s Day, female empowerment, and the belief that every girl has the right to dream big and be heard.#Britannicast #IWD2025 #GirlsInEducation #WomenInLeadership #UnleashingWomensPotential #BritannicaShanghai #StudentVoices #FemaleEmpowerment #PodcastForChange

Join us on Britannicast, the podcast of Britannica International School Shanghai, as we usher in the Year of the Snake with dazzling Chinese Spring Festival celebrations! From lion dances and traditional music to festive colours and customs, we explore how our school community honours this most auspicious time of year.In this special episode:🎤 Jerrel & Jess from Year 13 take over the studio to share their reflections as they enter the final stretch of their Britannica journey🎙️ Mister Smith is also joined by Britannica's history teacher Mister Davis to keep our regular panel banter rolling🌟 Our Spotlight interview with David Potinger, CEO of Orbital Education Group (to which Britannica belongs).Whether you’re passionate about international education, intrigued by Chinese New Year traditions, or seeking student perspectives on life at a top Shanghai school, this episode is for you!#Britannicast #ChineseSpringFestival #YearOfTheSnake #BBCShanghai #EducationPodcast #InternationalSchool #StudentVoices #OrbitalEducation #CNY2025 #PodcastShowNotes #ShanghaiLife #SchoolCommunity #sixthform

Get ready to jingle all the way with the Britannicast Christmas Special from Britannica International School Shanghai! In this festive episode, we unwrap a sleigh-full of seasonal cheer featuring:Live performances from our talented students and teachers at the school’s Christmas concertsHilarious Christmas cracker questions & jokes that’ll have you roaring with laughter (well, Mister Smith will..)A spirited countdown of our teacher’s Top 10 Christmas songs (music removed for copyright, but we’ll spill all the juicy picks!)Plenty of warm Britannica Christmas chat about holiday traditions, classroom antics, and students’ favourite yuletide memoriesJoining your host, Mister Smith, are student voices Harisha (Year 10) and Matteo (Year 9), alongside Geography teacher Mister Jones. Keep your ear tuned for roving reporter Igor’s exclusive interview with Mister Benson, Britannica Shanghai’s Head of Primary, as he talks about his life as well his most memorable festive moments .Whether you’re decking the halls at home or sneaking in some holiday spirit on your commute, this episode is packed with festive fun, heartwarming stories, and plenty of schoolyard surprises. Press play, grab your favourite Christmas treat, and celebrate the season the Britannicast way!#Britannicast #ChristmasSpecial #ShanghaiInternationalSchool #HolidayPodcast #ChristmasConcert #StudentPerformances #FestiveFun #SchoolLife #MerryChristmas #BritannicaChristmas

Harisha (Year 10), Vivaan (Year 9) and primary teacher Mister Read join host Mister Smith to discuss language learning and special events at the school. Roving reporter Igor (Year 7) takes his microphone along to capture comments and sounds from the recent Pumpkin Palooza. Our sit-down interview is with Miss Fu, our Head of Mandarin Studies.#Britannicast #BIShanghai #InternationalSchool #LanguageLearning #SchoolEvents #PodcastEducation #MandarinStudies #StudentVoices #halloween #pumpkinpaloozaContact us via the website: BritannicaShanghai.com

The Britannicast is back with a fresh face on the panel! 🏆 Director of Sport Mister Jacu joins Isabel (Year 6), returning guest Rachel (Year 9), and host Mister Smith for an in‐depth discussion on how sport and international education shape life at Britannica. Plus, our Head of Secondary, Mister O’Brien, fields your burning questions from roving reporter Igor (Year 6). Tune in for expert insights, candid banter, and all the behind‑the‑scenes scoop!#Britannicast #PodcastEpisode #InternationalEducation #SchoolSport #BehindTheScenes #EducationTalk #StudentVoices #Britannica #EdTech #HostSpotlightContact us via the website: BritannicaShanghai.com

We’re live! Welcome to Britannicast, the official podcast of Britannica International School Shanghai. In our debut episode, join host Mister Smith and the student panel — Benjamin (Year 6), Vivaan (Year 8) and Rachel (Year 9) — as they explore:AI in the Classroom: How artificial intelligence is transforming lessons and learning outcomesDigital Devices at School: Balancing screen time, safety, and productivitySchool Canteen Culture: From healthy meals to student favourites🎤 Plus, our roving reporter Igor (Year 6) heads to the Principal’s Office for an exclusive interview with Mr Farrell, uncovering leadership insights and why Britannica IS Shanghai ranks among the top international schools in China.Whether you’re a parent, student, or education enthusiast, this episode offers a first‑hand look at life at Britannica Shanghai—packed with energy, ideas, and real voices from our community. Listen now and join us on this educational journey!👉 Visit BritannicaShanghai.com to learn more and connect.#Britannicast #EducationPodcast #InternationalSchool #Shanghai #AIinEducation #DigitalLearning #StudentVoices #SchoolCanteen #LeadershipInterview #BritannicaShanghai #LearningInnovation