In our modern times, so many people are dependent on the internet for information that traditional print media has almost become a thing of the past. That means your school website is almost as important as the school itself.
Janine Nixon (One Education’s Head of Marketing Services) is a qualified marketing professional with over 18 years’ experience. She is passionate about the positive impact education can have on children’s lives and has spent the last 13 years working in education.
Here, Janine shares her thoughts about the importance of school websites, how they are beneficial, and what makes one stand out from the rest.
The importance of an internet presence for schools
The internet has quickly become our main source of information. Think about it: how many times this year have you looked at the classified ads in the newspaper, encyclopaedia, or reached for the Yellow Pages to find the answer to a question or details of a service you need?
If you are like me, the answer would be zero.
When a prospective parent is searching for primary schools, don’t be left out in the cold! Make it as easy for them to find you as possible.
A Local Authority will list your school but consider a few things. Does it show what makes your school unique? Does it discuss your school ethos, the happiness and success of your students, the quality of the staff, or the extracurricular activities?
Communication with current parents and carers is also key. If they can easily find information or can be signposted to relevant policies, they are happy and engaged, and so are your office staff (who won’t have to repeat the same thing on endless phone calls).
Building your school’s awareness online
As they say, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ – your website is also an opportunity to increase the awareness of your school to the wider community. Enhance pupil learning outcomes and life skills by encouraging community members to get more involved with the school, or inspire local businesses and charities to donate towards your fundraising efforts.
Furthermore, it is essential to remember that ‘every local-authority-maintained school’ must publish specific information on its website to comply with The School Information (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2012’.
Ofsted can call at any time, so making sure your content is up to date and contains the correct statutory information will give you reassurance that your website is inspection-ready.
Read more: What maintained schools must or should publish online.
What makes a good school website?
Working with schools to support their websites, I have seen such variation in style, quality, and content. But what makes a great website? We asked Alex Ellis, School Spider’s Director:
The most important thing about any website is enabling its users to access any information they want quickly and easily, and on any device. Any required or important information, such as admissions or policies, should be easy to navigate to, preferably with just one click. If your user can’t find what they want quickly and easily they will just go elsewhere.
With over 70% of page views of school websites coming from mobile devices not only does your website have to look and work great on a computer but also on a mobile phone. Is your website compatible and responsive on mobile phones?
Read more: School Marketing: The Three E’s of Social Media
School photography
Photography plays a great part of the user experience; it can really bring a website to life and can give a real flavour of school life and the ethos of the school.
If possible, have professional photography throughout your website, However, you can still achieve some great results with the latest mobile phones. Don’t be scared to play with effects and touch up your images.
If you’re wanting professional school photography services, contact One Education today.
Keep your website up to date
Your website should be easy to administer by someone in your school. The best websites have relevant, up to date content – do you really still need that advert for the 2016 Summer Fair?
Most websites these days allow users to login and change website content in real time, so make sure your website is simple and easy to change.
Lastly, never ever pay for small amends to your website – these should all be included with your support package for free.
As the web is becoming the biggest communication platform, and it continues to grow, your school website is the window into your school community. Showing achievements, sharing valuable information with parents, reaching the wider community.
It’s your opportunity to make a first impression that will last.
Contact One Education for school website services
At One Education, we understand that your school’s website is more than just a digital brochure; it’s a vital communication tool that reflects your institution’s character and values.
Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to creating engaging, informative, and Ofsted-compliant websites that leave a lasting positive impression on visitors.
We offer a comprehensive range of website services, all meticulously project managed to ensure a stress-free experience. From optimising existing websites to building brand-new digital platforms, we’re committed to helping your school shine online.
Contact us to find out more about our website services today.
