A school’s website serves as the primary portal of communication between the school and its current and prospective students, parents, and the broader community. Maintaining an up-to-date website is not just a matter of convenience; it is essential for meeting statutory requirements, ensuring transparency, and fostering engagement. Here, we explore why keeping your school website updated is of paramount importance (and don’t worry, our simple-to-use CMS makes it easy and quick!).

Enhancing communication and engagement

An updated school website acts as a central hub for all school-related information. For current students and parents, it provides easy access to crucial updates such as term dates, exam schedules, event announcements, and extracurricular activities. Timely updates ensure that the school community remains informed and engaged.

For prospective students and parents, the website serves as the first point of contact. It offers a glimpse into the school’s ethos, achievements, and community life. An outdated website can create a negative first impression, potentially deterring prospective families. Conversely, a well-maintained site can attract new students by showcasing the school’s strengths and up-to-date achievements.

Meeting statutory requirements

In England, it is a statutory requirement that schools must publish specific information on their websites. This includes details such as the school’s ethos and values, admission arrangements, behaviour policy, and performance data. Failing to keep this information current can result in non-compliance, which can adversely affect the school’s inspection outcomes and overall reputation. Our FREE checklist helps to ensure you have everything you need online so download that now!

An up-to-date website ensures that the school meets these statutory requirements, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability. This not only satisfies regulatory demands but also builds trust with parents and the wider community, reinforcing the school’s credibility and reliability.

Supporting teaching and learning

Educational resources and digital learning tools have become part of the modern school world – especially since 2020. An updated website can provide teachers, students, and parents with easy access to these resources, including homework assignments, lesson plans, and study materials – useful for revision or for children who are missing school due to illness. Additionally, the website can serve as a platform for virtual learning environments, facilitating remote education when necessary.

Showcasing school achievements and news

Regular updates to the school website allow for the timely sharing of achievements, news, and events. Highlighting student successes, school awards, and notable events can boost morale and foster a sense of pride within the school community. 

Attracting and retaining talent

For teachers and staff, a well-maintained website reflects the school’s commitment to professionalism and excellence. It can serve as a recruitment tool, showcasing the school as an attractive workplace with up-to-date information on job vacancies, school culture, and staff achievements.

Regularly updating the website with professional development opportunities, staff achievements, and school news can help retain existing staff by fostering a sense of belonging and recognition.

We have lots of ideas for how you can keep your school website up-to-date and thriving, so do get in touch to find out more!