Student podcasters interview former CANDI teacher about her debut art exhibition

Students at City and Islington College (CANDI) heard more about a former teacher’s first solo art exhibition when they interviewed her for their podcast.

A Level students Thalir Krishnathas, and Leah Camilleri spoke to Meera Palia, who taught A Level Sociology and Philosophy at the college from 2008-18, for The Jam podcast.

The Surprise Aquarium exhibition was held at Willesden Gallery in north-west London and featured a collection of abstract expressionist pieces created from 2019-23.

A Level student Thalir,18, said: “It was a great opportunity to talk to Meera and hear about her artwork and get to know her as a person and as an artist. We talked about how art is a great way to relieve stress, express your feelings and learn about yourself. That’s something I want to take into my life.

“I enjoyed doing the podcast. It’s a good way for students to gain more insight and knowledge of the world by speaking to people and learning about their lives.”

Listen to the podcast here: Surprise Aquarium interview with Meera Palia

The Jam has been running since 2020 and started as a way for students to talk about their experiences during the COVID pandemic in a series called Voices Lost in Lockdown.

In November 2021 students interviewed another former CANDI teacher, Hannah Lowe, for the podcast ahead of her winning the Costa Poetry Award and Costa Book of the Year Award for her book of sonnets called The Kids.

Students have also spoken to CANDI’s Head of History John Siblon for a podcast called History, Memory and War, and produced many other shows on academic and social topics including art, literature, conspiracy theories, mental health, media, movies and shows.

In May students involved in The Jam this year were presented with certificates in recognition of their work on the podcast and presented with £300 from the college, which will be used to fund training to further develop students’ podcasting skills.

A Level History teacher Debbie Bogard, who set up The Jam, said: “This was a wonderful opportunity for Thalir and Leah, who enjoyed a thoughtful and enlightening conversation with Meera.

“It’s been a fantastic year for the Jam, with a committed and talented group of student podcasters making a whole host of interesting episodes. In addition to developing their podcast skills, the students involved have really benefitted from working together as a collective, supporting each other to develop their ideas and finding their voices.

“It’s wonderful seeing the Jam helping to grow a wider CANDI community made up of current and former students and teachers with shared values and a commitment to learning together.

“I know with so many talented students the Jam will continue to grow. I can’t wait to see and hear where it goes next.”

Find out more about A Levels at CANDI and apply here.

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