Proof that the downturn of business is not equalised across all businesses. One of our clients in the schools sector has seen pupil numbers rise by 10% over the past few years, helped in part by developing a coherent and persistent approach to communications.
Getting the prospectus, website, advertising, parental communications and open day presentations right is an issue with which many schools struggle using their own resources. 360° brings that strategic overview to communications issues, laying the ground rules by which all the agencies, designers, printers and staff can operate. Holding the ring between competing priorities and agendas is a skill which does not come naturally to many agencies – the ‘no good if not made here’ thought process runs deep. 360° looks beyond selfish need to draw the best out of everyone.
One area that schools can miss, however, is the opportunities presented through media relations. The very concept of dealing with journalists brings many head teachers and their bursars out in a cold sweat. Yet, schools offer precisely the stream of ‘people stories’ that the media love. Yes, you need to be careful of child protection, but the vast majority of stories can be brought to media attention if handled sensitively and where the client is building the strong relationship with parents that is core to any good school’s success.
If you know any head teacher or school development director seeking to improve your communications through the stories you generate, contact 360° for a free consultation on the way ahead.
Tags: educational communications, Hampshire PR, independent school PR, marketing private school, public relations, school PR
