Crossword Genius

Slate a student channel (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

canal

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'channel' is the definition.
(I know that channel can be written as canal)

'slate a student' is the wordplay.
'slate' becomes 'can' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'student' becomes 'l' (as in L-plates for learner drivers).
'can'+'a'+'l'='CANAL'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for canal that I've seen before include "Grand Union perhaps" , "Aqueduct" , "Duct" , "Manmade flower" , "Man-made channel of water" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app