Woodside Academy

Overview

Woodside Academy in Bexley, a 230-place special school. They partnered with SE24 to replace all their existing lighting with efficient LED panels, bringing ambient, environmental and financial benefits.

Implementation

The first step was to conduct a feasibility study to ensure the project’s financial viability. With no upfront costs required from the school, funding was secured mainly through the community share offer. Installations were scheduled outside school hours to minimize disruption for pupils and staff.

For the installation, we worked with Southeast London Community Energy (SELCE), making the most of their expertise in LED projects. The installation team managed to fit 700 LED panels throughout the school in just one week, working overnight to complete the process.

The results

The immediate results included a significant improvement in lighting quality—eliminating flicker, reducing eye strain, and improving student concentration. For students, especially those with sensory sensitivities, the new lighting created a more comfortable learning environment. Both the staff and the students noticed the difference immediately.

Financially, Woodside Academy is projected to save around £10,000 on electricity in the first year and an estimated £106,000 over the ten-year lighting services agreement. Maintenance and energy costs for the school have been notably reduced.

The project also reinforced the school’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with its net zero goals and the broader sustainability roadmap of the London Southeast Customs Trust.

“To any other schools who are considering taking these steps and working with SE24, I would just say do it. It’s been a win-win situation for us.”

Kathryn Freame
Headteacher, Woodside Academy

“The new lights helped me when I was helping with the Christmas performance because they weren’t glaring in my eyes. It helps me concentrate in PE, and it feels less warm now.”

Year 11 student
Woodside Academy