SUBMIT A SUPPORT REQUEST
You’ve got a fantastic school website—mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, packed with useful information—but are parents actually using it?
If the answer is “not as much as we’d like,” you’re not alone. The truth is, many schools invest in a great website but don’t always take the extra steps to make sure parents are regularly visiting. Here’s why that might be happening—and, more importantly, how to fix it!
1. Parents Don’t Know What’s There
The problem: You might assume parents will instinctively check the website for updates, but unless they’re prompted, many won’t think to visit regularly.
Here’s how to fix it:
- Tell them about it! Promote your website in your newsletters, emails, and social media posts.
- Include it in daily communication. Mention it at parents’ evenings, staff meetings, and on noticeboards.
- Make it the go-to resource. Instead of answering common queries in emails, direct parents to where they can find the information on your website.
2. Important Information Isn’t Easy to Find
The problem: Even with a well-designed site, if key information is buried under multiple clicks or hidden in long documents, parents may give up looking.
Here’s how to fix it:
- Prioritise key content. Ensure term dates, school policies, event details, and contact information are front and centre.
- Use clear menu labels. Make it obvious where parents can find what they need—avoid jargon or school-specific abbreviations.
- Feature an ‘Updates’ section. A visible news or announcements area on your homepage encourages parents to check back often.
3. The Website Feels Outdated
The problem: If the latest newsletter is from last year or the calendar still lists last term’s events, parents will assume the website isn’t a reliable source of information.
Here’s how to fix it:
- Regularly update your content. A website should be a living resource—make sure news, events, and key documents are refreshed often.
- Set a content refresh routine. Assign a staff member (or team) to review and update the site weekly or monthly.
4. Parents Aren’t Reminded to Visit
The problem: If parents don’t get regular prompts to check the website, they won’t think to visit.
✅ The fix:
- Link to your website in every message. Whether it’s an email, text, or social post, always include a direct link to relevant pages.
- Use school communications to drive traffic. If you’re sending an SMS about an upcoming event, include a line like: “More details on our website here!”
- Encourage teachers to remind parents. If staff routinely direct parents to the website, it becomes a habit.
Here is an example communication you could send to parents to promote your website
Email example:
Visit our School Website: The First Place to Check for Updates!
Dear Parents and carers,
We’re making it easier than ever to stay updated with everything happening at [School Name]! Instead of calling the school office, check our NEW & IMPROVED website first:
[INSERT WEBSITE LINK]
On our school website, you’ll find:
- Term dates & key policies
- School newsletters & upcoming events
- Absence reporting forms & contact details
And much, much more.
You can even save our school website to your home screen for quick access.
Thank you for your support,
Mrs Robot
Robot Primary School
Social Media Post Example
📢 Did you know? You don’t need to call the school office for basic info! 🙌
Visit [INSERT WEBSITE LINK] and find:
✅ Term dates 📅
✅ School policies 📜
✅ Newsletters & event updates 🏫
💡 TIP: Save the website to your phone’s home screen for quick access! 📲
#SchoolWebsite #StayUpdated #NoNeedToCall
