If your students shouldn’t settle for average, why should you?

There’s a solid argument that any business or organisation needs a functional website in the modern age. But that hasn’t stopped some education providers flunking on their website. But these websites must be viewed as an essential information hub and resource for all students, parents and the wider community.

Stay with us as we explain why all educational establishments don’t just need a website – but need a really good one!

Education sector websites do more for more people

To understand the need for a school, college or university website to be really good, you must first realise how many people rely on these types of websites and for what reasons.

The website of an educational institute needs to do more than just share some basic information and highlight a bit of news. It becomes a central place of activity to broadcast key information to prospective students, current students and their families. It can also serve as a place to book slots for parents evening, download term schedules and much much more.

What’s more, if your website is able to provide a wide range of things to the community, in one place, you could save time and money not having to share information in a variety of different ways.

Websites matter to Ofsted

We often tell eCommerce clients that a poor website can damage their reputation. But this is even more apt in the world of education. Ofsted reports consider the value of your website and its content. The Department for Education (DfE) and Ofsted currently require schools to upload specific  information on their website in order to remain compliant. And what is required changes from time to time, meaning you could be marked down if something is missing from your website that should be there.

Ofsted inspections can be stressful enough without having to worry about what impact your website could have on your rating. Here at WEBPRO Education, we are always fully aware of Ofsted requirements when it comes to your website and we will make sure this is one less thing for you to worry about.

Let’s not forget about accessibility

The UK Government outlined website accessibility requirements for public sector bodies, including those in the education sector, back in 2018.

In a nutshell, any website of this kind must cater to people with difficulties or disabilities by enabling adjustment of the content so all people can digest it easily. This means the use of colours and even the way things are written and linked to other pages must be compliant.

The exact requirements are lengthy and some exceptions apply to some types of content. If you are concerned that your current website isn’t living up to these new regulations, reach out to one of our team so we can help you assess the situation.

Your website says a lot about your standards

When prospective students and parents are considering your institute, one of the first places they will go to is your website. It is the first impression that these people will get of your establishment and how you position yourself in the public view.

If your website lacks quality or doesn’t function as it should, maybe on other devices like a mobile, then you will lose the interest of these prospective students. Moreover, your website sets the tone among your current community. If your site doesn’t work effectively, it could hinder your ability to broadcast key information.

The bottom line is that if you want to build a strong community reputation and demand high standards from your students, then that begins at home – or should we say your homepage?

Does WEBPRO Education create accessible and compliant websites?

Absolutely! As website designers and developers working in the education sector, we know all about compliance and meeting those confusing regulations. If you want a professional and functional website for a school, college or university, or any other educational establishment, do not hesitate to speak with our friendly team. Get your questions answered now!

Recap: Everyone needs a fantastic website, but education providers need a functional website more than most to accommodate a wider community with different expectations and needs. And these websites must wrestle with new compliance regulations. Your current school, college or university website could be outdated and non-compliant. Contact the WEBPRO Education team today to put things right!

P.S. Just because you have regulations to meet doesn’t mean you can’t have a website that’s both functional and beautiful.