Why Social Media is Essential for School Communication
Social media has been a part of our lives for over two decades. It’s become a common way for people to stay connected, share stories and keep up with what’s happening around them. For businesses and other institutions, social media has formed an essential part of their communication strategy.
Whilst you may have secured profiles for your school on various social media platforms, are you truly using social media to your advantage? In this blog, we’ll look at why using social media can make a real difference to your overall communication with not only students and parents, but your local community.
Easy and Instant Communication
You may already be sending home a newsletter – paper or digital – but if it’s particularly wordy, key information may be lost. Social media allows you to communicate instantly and directly with parents, students and your local community. Whether it’s a quick update about last minute school closures or a reminder about parents’ evening, social media gets the message out fast and ensures it reaches the right people.
Meet Your Audience Where They Are
As of 2024, over 80% of the UK population have social media accounts – that includes your students and parents. By using platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, you can connect with your community in a way that feels both natural and accessible. Don’t fear that you’re adding to the noise on these platforms – you’re actually making communication smoother and more effective instead! When schools are active online, they become part of their community’s daily life which makes everyone feel more connected.
Build a Stronger School Community
Your school is more than just a building – it’s a community where students, teachers, parents and other members of staff come together. Social media not only offers a space to share individual and collective successes, but it also helps to foster transparency. By posting regular updates, you can keep families informed, build trust and ensure they feel connected to your school’s everyday activities. When people feel like they’re part of something, they’re more likely to stay engaged and involved.
Stay Ahead By Embracing Change
With social media forming a huge part of our lives, it’s important to embrace it and be a part of it. You don’t need to jump on every platform or trend, but having a presence on social media demonstrates that your school is forward-thinking and open to new ways of connecting with its community. It also shows a willingness to adapt and stay relevant.
Amplify Your School’s Voice
Use your platform to showcase what makes your school unique. Highlight your values and give families a glimpse into your school’s culture before they even visit. Don’t just rely on tours and open days to attract new families; social media allows you to offer a sense of familiarity and belonging even before they walk through your doors.
Embracing social media isn’t just about staying connected or jumping on the latest trend. It’s a powerful tool that can help you communicate better and build a stronger community with parents, students and staff.