Head Student’s Welcome

Hello! My name is Lara, and I am so glad that you’ve taken the time to hear more about what it really means to be a part of Woodford. As Head Girl, I feel extremely privileged to represent this community of ambitious, kind, and supportive individuals.

From the moment students join, there is continual investment into their potential. Woodford supports students to meet not only the high level of academic effort that is necessary in such an environment, but quite uniquely understands the need to embrace individuality, encourage self-belief and teach students to strive for excellence always.

Alongside our broad academic curriculum, we have lots of opportunities outside of the classroom for students to grow. There is a constant effort to create well-rounded individuals, whether in music, art, drama, or PE, and opportunities to lead younger students in these strands. Students are encouraged to create their own clubs and societies, as well as run events for causes close to their hearts. As a result, you can appreciate your journey through Woodford, from when you joined your first club in yr 7, to running schoolwide events in yr 13. Even the staff are often happy to get involved, allowing us to organise teacher vs student sports matches, which are a joy for the whole school, spectators and participants.

This leads me onto something I firmly believe in, our teachers are unlike any others. The commitment to helping you understand their specialist subject, and the support they offer every individual student, cannot be understated. Not only are they experts in their field, but they stand out as supportive, warm, genuine people, evident through their constant participation in school events, whether it's performing onstage in the annual pantomime, or filming a murder mystery for the school birthday. Their work beyond the classroom, and exemplary friendliness, are integral to maintaining our positive, uplifting environment. The staff have hugely contributed to why I’ve loved my time here.

Longstanding traditions like the school birthday, House Drama, and the 5 Penny Race, hold a special place in all our hearts, allowing students to come together, without being limited by year group, to make new friends and have fun. The atmosphere is always unmatched, buzzing with excitement and friendly competition. These traditions create a sense of pride and appreciation for all those who have come before us, but also an excitement to be contributing to the school in our own way as we pass through it.

Joining Sixth Form, even as an internal student, is a new experience. Independence, leadership and perseverance are all skills we are encouraged to build upon in Years 12 and 13, with a focus on preparing students for life beyond Woodford, through higher education sessions, course specific talks and application support for post-18 pathways. In addition, fortnightly Personal Development sessions – a 1-1 chat with your tutor – are incredibly helpful: dedicating time to help students navigate life beyond the school environment, and teaching them about the importance of talking through their worries.

It is thanks to all this that Woodford will forever be a part of me. It really has shaped who I've become, thanks to the abundance of memories, friendships, and opportunities I couldn't have had anywhere else. Everyone is here to help each other, students and teachers, and the way you are treated, especially in sixth form, makes you feel equally as important and valued as your educators. The amount you can get involved in beyond the classroom, and how much your ideas and projects are listened to, is unmatched. We are a community here at Woodford, and I can’t wait for you to find your place in it.

All the best,

Lara

Head Girl 2026-27