Why you should update your school website
The school website is the main communication tool between the school, its students and parents, as well as the wider community. Updating your website is more than just convenient; it’s essential to meet statutory requirements, ensure transparency, and foster engagement.
Enhancing the communication and engagement
A school’s website that is regularly updated acts as the central hub of all information related to school. It provides current students and their parents with easy access to important updates, such as exam schedules, term dates, event announcements and extracurricular activities. Updates are timely and ensure that everyone is informed.
The website is the first point-of-contact for prospective parents and students. The website gives a good idea of the school’s culture, its achievements and its community. A dated website can give a bad first impression and deter potential families. A well-maintained website can also attract new students, by highlighting the school’s achievements and strengths.
Complying with legal requirements
In England, schools are required to publish certain information on their website. The information includes the school’s values and ethos, admissions policies, behaviour policy and performance data. An out of date site can lead to non-compliance and negatively affect the school’s reputation.
A website that is up to date demonstrates the school’s commitment to transparency and accountability. It not only meets regulatory requirements, but it also helps to build trust among parents and the community. For Websites for schools, contact fsedesign.co.uk/websites-for-schools/
Supporting the teaching and learning
Since 2020, digital learning and educational resources have become a part of the school curriculum. Teachers, students and parents can easily access these resources through an updated website, which includes homework assignments, lesson plans and study material. This is useful for revising or for children that are absent from school because of illness. The website can also be used as a virtual learning environment, which facilitates remote education.
Showcase school news and achievements
Regular updates on the school website allows for timely sharing of news, events, and achievements. The school community can feel more proud of itself and its students when they see student achievements, awards and noteworthy events.
Talent attraction and retention
A well-maintained school website shows the commitment of teachers and staff to professionalism and excellence. It can be used as a tool for recruitment, showing the school off as a desirable workplace, with current information about job vacancies, culture and staff achievements.
By regularly updating your website with news about the school, achievements of staff, and professional development opportunities you can encourage existing staff to stay by creating a sense of belonging and recognition.
