Admissions is the driving force behind financial decisions made in schools across the country. Many schools, even those with outstanding Ofsted ratings, worry about attracting enough pupils. After 31 years of supporting schools, we’ve found some simple steps that schools can take to improve admissions:
Get honest opinions
What do parents and the wider community think about your school? It is important not to make assumptions about the perceptions of your school. When you know how people think about your school, it is easy to dispel any myths or worries.
Consider external factors
Look at what is happening outside of your school community. Is there a new academy nearby? Have any roads changed? Are there plans to build more houses/schools within the area? Keep up to date with external changes that could impact your school. As many teachers have told me, failure to prepare is preparing to fail.
Get social
Make sure your social media presence is engaging and shows the ethos and values of your school. Sharing good news stories and regular updates about what is going on in school will help parents, and the wider community, feel connected.
Collect data
Open Evening are a fantastic way to gather opinions and feedback as well as helping you to understand why pupils from outside of your main feeder schools have decided to visit you. Capture data through online questionnaires following on from the event and don’t forget to make it worthwhile for your audience to participate! A chance to win a voucher, books or an e-reader are great incentives.
Share good news
Building banners are an inexpensive way to share good news and update the look of your school. Remember to let people know when admissions are open and, most importantly, direct them on how to apply. Talk to use about designing and producing engaging banners!