Why Choose Woolf College at Leigh Stationers’ Academy?

Welcome from the Head of Woolf College

A SIXTH FORM WHERE EVERY STUDENT IS KNOWN, VALUED, AND SUPPORTED

Welcome to Woolf College, the Sixth Form at Leigh Stationers’ Academy — a vibrant, ambitious community where every student is known, valued, and supported to succeed in their journey beyond school. Our curriculum offer is broad and inclusive, with a wide range of A Levels, BTECs, and T Levels, designed to equip students with the qualifications, confidence, and experiences needed for university, apprenticeships, or the world of work.

On this page, you’ll discover five great reasons to choose Woolf College, along with a 360° virtual tour and other helpful information about what life is like in our Sixth Form.

Five Reasons to Choose Woolf College

1. Belonging Through Our College Model

Woolf College offers the best of both worlds: the scale and ambition of a large Sixth Form combined with the care and community of our distinctive college model. Every student benefits from a strong sense of belonging, supported by a dedicated team including a Head of College, two Assistant Principals, two Heads of Year, and a Student Services Manager — all focused solely on the success and wellbeing of Sixth Form students. This personalised structure ensures that every student is known, valued, and supported throughout their time with us.

2. Ambition Through Curriculum Choice

We offer a wide and inclusive range of A Level, BTEC, and T Level courses to suit different interests, aspirations, and career goals. Whether students are aiming for university, apprenticeships, or direct entry into employment, our curriculum provides the flexibility and challenge they need to succeed.

3. Excellence Through High Expectations

At Woolf College, we believe that with the right teaching, support and ambition, every student can achieve excellence. We place high expectations on ourselves and our students — and the outcomes speak for themselves. This year, Leigh Stationers’ Academy celebrated strong Sixth Form results across A-Level, Applied General, and our first-ever T-Level cohorts. Students progressed to top destinations, including the London School of Economics, University of Warwick, and prestigious degree apprenticeships in software engineering, finance, aerospace and more.

4. The Best of Sixth Form and College Life

At Woolf College, we believe in preparing students for life beyond school by promoting independence and personal responsibility. Sixth Formers are only expected on-site for their lessons, tutor time and assemblies. Outside of these times, they are free to come and go — unlike most school-based Sixth Forms. We trust our young adults to manage their time, work and revision effectively, while providing ample guidance and support when needed. Dedicated study spaces, mentoring, and targeted academic intervention help ensure that every student thrives in a culture of independence and ambition.

5. Opportunity Through Enrichment

Students benefit from a rich programme of co-curricular and leadership opportunities. These include mentoring from The Stationers’ Company, access to Stationers’ grants and bursaries, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, the Combined Cadet Force (Royal Marines), and a wide variety of clubs, trips, and speaker events designed to broaden horizons and develop the whole student.

About Leigh Stationers’ Academy

Leigh Stationers’ Academy is a large and inclusive 11–18 secondary school located in South East London, serving a diverse and vibrant community. With over 1,700 students on roll, we are one of the largest secondary schools in the region. We are part of the Leigh Academies Trust, a highly successful multi-academy trust comprising over 30 academies across Kent, Medway, and South East London.

We are also sponsored by The Stationers’ Company, one of the historic livery companies of the City of London. For more information about this important partnership, please visit the About Us section of our website.

Woolf Post-16 Centre

Woolf College offers a modern and professional environment, with bright study spaces, lecture theatres, and specialist computer rooms. Sixth Form students benefit from independent study areas and full access to digital resources, supported by a free Chromebook loan scheme for the duration of their studies.

The Stationers’ Company

Our sponsor, The Stationers’ Company, enhances the student experience through governance, mentoring, resources, career advice, and financial support. Their rich history in education and media makes them an ideal partner for our digital and creative focus.

The Digital Media Centre

Our £500,000 Stationers’ Digital Media Centre rivals real-world creative spaces, with industry-standard equipment and professional design. Opened in partnership with The Stationers’ Company and Ravensbourne University, the centre gives students from all year groups access to filmmaking, podcasting, and digital media production. It has won multiple national awards.

Watch our Digital Media Centre Show reel 2023

Enrichment and Extracurricular Opportunities

Our extensive enrichment programme supports personal growth and leadership. From the Duke of Edinburgh (Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards) and Combined Cadet Force (Royal Marines), to clubs, societies, sports, and the arts—opportunities are plentiful. Sixth Form students also run activities, mentor younger students, and are encouraged to lead their own initiatives.

Dress Code

Woolf College students wear business attire that reflects our Sixth Form’s mature and ambitious ethos. Details of the dress code can be found on our ‘Unform’ page.

Woolf Dress Code

Student Leadership and Student Voice

Woolf students play an active role in school leadership through the Student Council, Senior Student Leadership Team, and peer mentoring. Students receive leadership training and take part in assemblies, public events, and mentoring younger pupils – helping to shape the academy community.

Careers and Work Experience

Our robust Post-18 careers programme includes UCAS and apprenticeship support, speaker events, and mentoring. Strong links with local universities and The Stationers’ Company provide access to fairs, networking, and professional pathways. Every student is guided towards their next step – be it university, apprenticeship, or employment.

Special Educational Needs and Disability support

Our SEND team offers targeted, individualised support for Sixth Form students with learning or physical needs. Progress is closely monitored, and partnerships with families are central to our inclusive approach.

LAT Alumni

Our alumni network connects current students with former learners who return to offer subject mentoring and Post-18 guidance. As part of Leigh Academies Trust, Woolf students benefit from a growing network of successful graduates.