Head Student’s Welcome

 

Hello! My name is Jaya and I am so glad you’ve taken the time to hear more about being part of Woodford. As Head Girl, I feel extremely privileged to represent such a special community of ambitious, kind, supportive individuals.

From the moment students join until the time comes for them to leave, there is a continual investment into the potential, both academic and personal, of each girl that joins us. Woodford supports students to meet not only the high level of academic effort that is necessary in such an environment, but quite uniquely recognises 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 time is taken to hone in on the skills and talents of students, which stand beside their academic strengths. Woodford recognises brilliance in all its forms – students are encouraged to create their own clubs and societies, as well as run events for causes close to their hearts. In Year 12, I was lucky enough to organise donations for the homeless community during winter with the help of ‘Hands on Hands out’, and annually we, as a school, donate to the charity Haven House, a very special children’s hospice I was lucky to visit on our School Birthday.

Longstanding traditions like House Drama and the 5 Penny Race hold a special place in all of our hearts: students get to come together without a year group barrier, and create new friends whilst having fun. There is excitement as our community becomes competitive (in a friendly way!) and creativity flourishes.

We are taught to be aspirational; our staff body make sure we know our options are limitless and that their support is with us all the time. Teachers are dedicated to providing enriching lessons and sharing their passion for their subjects.  In and out of the classroom, our teachers involve themselves in our community as much as students do – we get to see their hidden talents in ‘student vs teacher’ sport events and the Christmas panto, led by our Year 12s. Teachers at Woodford are welcoming and kind, and are integral to maintaining our positive, uplifting environment.

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. There is an understanding of the importance of preparing individuals for life beyond Woodford, with a variety of higher education sessions, course specific talks and immense support offered when applying for different post-18 pathways. A new addition of fortnightly Personal Development sessions has proved helpful: not only does it give you a chance to get to know your tutor and form group better, it dedicates allocated time to helping students navigate life beyond the school environment.

Woodford will always be special to me. It has allowed me to grow personally, given me friendships that will last well beyond our time here, and taught me that anything really is possible. I have loved my time here and am thankful for all the opportunities, memories and unwavering support I will always remember fondly. I am sure that you will love it too.

Kind Regards,

Jaya

Head Girl 2025-6