How can schools and colleges recruit new students whilst the pandemic keeps their doors closed to visitors?

As if schools and colleges haven’t had enough to contend with as a result of COVID-19, education leaders are still having to press ahead with new student recruitment whilst unable to open their doors to visitors. This can be a big challenge, but like the rapid shift to online lessons, schools and colleges are finding creative new ways to attract tomorrow’s students.

One of Exesios’ clients, West Kirby Grammar School (WKGS), has actually managed to increase student recruitment despite the challenges presented by the pandemic. This is how we helped.   

Virtual Open Days

WKGS asked Exesios for support with two virtual open day events for the school and sixth form in October 2020. To bring the events to life, we produced two videos which capture the spirt and atmosphere of West Kirby, combining creative footage with short interviews with students and staff.

In addition to the videos, we used the latest camera kit and software to create a 360-degree walkthrough which allows prospective students and parents to access all areas of the school virtually. From the science labs to the gymnasium, visitors can safely roam the corridors and see all that West Kirby has to offer from the comfort of their own home.

Connecting Digitally

Prior to the virtual open day events we had created a new website for WKGS as part of a larger rebranding exercise.

The new site is totally bespoke, tailoring the visitor’s experience in line with their interest. We created an easy-to-use content management system which now powers the school’s calendar and is fully synchronised with social media activity, keeping pupils and parents up to date with the latest news and events. 

“The website is stunning and perfectly encapsulates everything we originally described in the school that we have and aspire to be,” explains Headteacher, Simeon Clarke. “It provides a customisable and tailored experience for each individual and has already drastically improved parental and student engagement.”

Engaging Prospectuses

Prospectuses are a key marketing tool in the education sector, and during the pandemic they have been more important than ever. We created new digital and print prospectuses for WKGS school and sixth form, combining powerful messaging and stunning photography with syllabus details and key information. 

Like the new website, the visual design of the prospectuses introduced a fresh, contemporary feel whilst still maintaining the school’s heritage. 

Need Support?

It has been a real privilege to help WKGS to stay ‘open’ for prospective students throughout the pandemic. We would love to help your school or college too.

For an informal chat, please call or email us. In the meantime, you can download our case study which gives more information about the work we have done with WKGS.