What is a Cookie and how does our school website use them?

• Cookies require websites to obtain consent from visitors to store or retrieve any information on a computer or any other web connected device.
• Most websites also use some kind of visitor tracking, like Google Analytics, to measure site performance, and this will also use cookies in most cases.
• By requiring websites to inform and obtain explicit consent for cookies EU aims to give web users more control over their online privacy.

What School’s can do?

• Ignore the law, this may result in a £500,000 fine
• Stop using cookies – not easy to do as most web technologies use cookies everywhere
• Ask users for permission to use cookies. This can be done in a variety of ways.

What are industry bodies saying?

The ICO (13th December 2011)

• Conduct a comprehensive audit of cookies and how they are used
• Be transparent in displaying the information more prominently on a website
• Educate users about cookies
• Give subscribers the chance to opt out

What to do next?

• We advise all school’s to do an audit of their use of cookies (or get their website provider to do it for them)
• Update their terms and conditions to list the Cookies being used across the School Website
• Either, specify that by using the website they agree to the use of the listed Cookies OR Give users the opportunity to ‘opt out’ of using Cookies on the website altogether

If your school requires further information on how it might comply with the new legislation or you are reviewing your online presence completely then why not give School Website a call on 0845 262 2030 or complete our enquiry form. We can provide an audit of your website for Cookies in addition to specific information on what to do next.

Please note that The following information does not constitute legal or other professional advice and may not be relied on as such. It reflects School Website’s general view as to the broad effect of the legislation. It is accordingly generic in nature and does not take into account specific circumstances. It is no substitute for specific professional advice which the reader/participant is best advised to obtain if it wishes a view as to how best to implement the new rules.

QR codes are particularly effective in engaging potential customers (i.e. parents and pupils) at the early stages of the customer journey. At the initial ‘get in touch’ stages where a parent or pupil is selecting a school, you need to have a strategy in place to get visitors back to your site to re-engage with them, especially if the initial contact was an offline situation.

Using QR codes to drive traffic to your website is undoubtedly one of the most effective uses of this new technology, as is providing a QR code linking to further information on a topic from a printed prospectus such as a video, virtual tour or image gallery.

Here are a few pointers when deciding where and when QR codes might be appropriate:

1. The Environment

   There is a fairly practical decision that needs to be made when it comes to using QR codes, and that is the physical environment in which the user will scan the barcode. For instance, areas where there is no Wi-Fi or 3G connections simply will not work, nor will putting the barcode 30 feet in the air!

   

2. The Device

   Those that scan in your code will be doing so on a mobile device. So you need to make sure that the content that you are linking them through to is mobile friendly. If it is difficult to read or is not accessible altogether then your campaign will not be successful. Think navigation and user experience.

3. The User

   The more personalised the content to your user the better. If you can tailor the content they receive to their particular situation, then your campaign will be all the more effective. For example, what you might want to tell a first time visitor will be different to someone who has been to an open day, visited the school and met some of the staff.

4. The Social Networks

   Think beyond the school’s website to how you might extend the user journey via social networks and social media. Be aware, you do not want to limit your campaign to only those that have a login but if your campaign gains momentum through social media the results with undoubtedly be more impactful.

Here are a few pros and cons of QR Codes:

Pros

• Ease of use

  QR codes can be added to just about anything, from the school prospectus, fliers and leaflets to adverts on the Underground, and this versatility can be very useful for marketers. Their range of use is also extensive.

• QR codes can be tracked

  Using web analytics, and by using unique codes for different placements, marketers can gain some valuable information about how well campaigns are going, and what works and what doesn't.

• Easy way to send mobile users to online content

  The QR code offers, as the name suggests, a quick response mechanism which saves users the effort of typing in a URL.

  Used well, and in conjunction with a mobile optimised landing page, it can grab parents and pupils at the exact point where they have shown interest.

• They appeal to mobile users' curiosity

  Perhaps this will change once the novelty wears off, and codes become ubiquitous, but on seeing a QR code, I have the urge to scan it, just to find out where it leads.

• QR codes can be cost effective

  Creating the QR code itself doesn't have to cost anything.

Cons

• Other options are available

• Users need to download a QR code reader

  This is the big drawback for many. Mobile users have to download a (normally free) QR reader app before they can even begin to use them, which limits the audience.

• Scanning can be a long process

  The actual process of scanning a code can be a pain. Users have to get their phone out, fire up the code reader, before scanning and waiting for the landing page.

  With a fast internet connection this may work fine, but on a variable 3G signal, many users may lose patience.

Best practice...

There have been some excellent, creative uses of QR codes, and these generally have a number of common factors:

• Give customers a reason to scan

  Curiosity alone may be enough, but if you can provide a more compelling reason, then users will reach into their pockets and scan the code.

• Create some added value for users

  This doesn't necessarily mean special offers, but extending the experience for mobile users.

  Another is using QR codes on locations within the school for open days and tours, providing further information on the facility, area or its history.

• Get the landing page right

  People are on a mobile, so landing pages, as well as subsequent purchase or sign up processes, need to be optimised for mobile users.

Mistakes to avoid 

Not optimising your landing page is the obvious one, but there are other common mistakes to avoid.

• Not including a call to action

  Explaining why people should scan a code and what they can expect to find helps.

• Give people time to scan the code

  How long this process takes may depend on the dexterity of the mobile user, but I'd say at least 10-20 seconds. It is not therefore helpful flashing up a QR Code on a plasma in reception which disappears every 5 seconds.

• Don't just use QR codes for the sake of it

  If you use these codes, it should have a purpose, not just to show off.

If you would like to learn more about how your school can make the most of QR codes then give one of our sales team a call on 0845 262 2030 or complete our online enquiry form.

In the last 12 months we have had more schools than ever before ask us about how they can best drive relevant traffic to their school's website.

Whilst our own SEO specialist is always on hand to answer our clients questions and support them in optimising their website to achieve the highest rankings possible, for many schools they would simply prefer to buy into a managed service and not have to worry about meta-tags, back links or social bookmarks. So, that is what we have created. An SEO service that not only provides clear objectives but also measurable results. You only have to type in any school website related keyword to see our own website www.schoolwebsite.co.uk ranked in the number one position, so our own success in this field really does speak for itself.

Few schools use pay per click advertising, of those that do, it is a small minority that get the most from their budget. A quick search on 'prep school Newcastle' for example gives adverts for schools in Surrey – a wasted click for all concerned. Perhaps it is purely down to a lack of understanding that leads so many schools away from using what is undoubtedly one of the most effective online methods of driving relevant traffic to a school website. Whether you use PPC already and want to improve the effectiveness of your campaign or would like to start using it our PPC service for schools is here to help.

For further information, including pricing call 0845 262 2030 or complete our online enquiry form.

The table below shows the number of UK internet users that accessed the web via mobile in 2011:

With this in mind, schools need to be thinking about their mobile strategy, if only at this stage keeping an eye on the number of mobile visitors their site receive. When the stats start to rise above 30% it may well be time to push the button!

Those schools wanting to be at the cutting edge of technology need to get a wriggle on. One such school is Rugby, which for users accessing the site via their mobile provides a tailored version of the site, beautifully refined navigation and a single column interface for content. Don’t take our word for it, have a look for yourself:
www.rugbyschool.net

If your school is interested in getting a mobile version or you would like to discuss your website or mobile strategy call 0845 262 2030.

Success in social media comes from understanding the different communications channels at your disposal (If Twitter is a wine bar, then Facebook is your living room and LinkedIn would probably be your local chamber of commerce). Once you know your channels, you can understand who frequents them and why, which means your content can be tailored to engage them.

Likewise, there is no magic formula to optimising the website for the search engines. The content management system (CMS) will do the majority but like social media, a strategy is needed to be successful.

At School Website we employ a social media specialist to support your school in the implementation and development of a successful social media strategy. We will also show you how the use of social media can improve the search engine optimisation (SEO) of your website.

Firstly, apps are here to stay. Maybe not forever, perhaps one day everything can be done in the browser, however for the next three years at least the app market is set to continue its rapid growth.

Secondly, you need to ask two very important questions:

1. Do we have a significant number of customers (stakeholders) using smart phones?
2. How active are they on those devices?

The answer to those two questions will invariably differ from school to school, however one thing you can be sure of is that the number of users with smart phones is growing, as is their use of those devices.

Assuming the demand is there for an app, you then need to think about its purpose. Producing an app for apps sake is never going to be a good investment.

Think about the audience; your app needs to improve the user’s experience or engage them uniquely. An app is undoubtedly an additional communications channel which is there to be utilised, but much like social media - it needs to be done correctly to achieve success.

At School Website we have a range of ‘off the shelf’ apps for schools. One aimed specifically at prospective parents and another aimed at current parents and pupils. We have also developed a number of ‘bespoke apps’ from augmented reality to quiz based assessment. So if you have an idea for an app, why not get in touch and let us know.

"‘I started work at school website on Monday 15th August. I had previously completed two weeks in February and was asked at the end of my second week if I wanted to return in the summer holidays. I accepted the offer as I had enjoyed working there.

During my time at school website in February I learnt how to use ‘Photoshop’ and had the opportunity of designing a website on my first two days. My first attempt wasn’t anywhere near professional but I was happy with the improvements I had made in my second attempt, which began to look more like a proper website. I also had the opportunity of uploading content (images and text) to websites that has already been built. This made me feel involved in the process of the client’s website design.

During my time at school website in my summer holidays I again uploaded content to different websites, but this time it was a bit more challenging as whilst uploading text sometimes there would be problems with the html code, which required a little adjustments to the tags that I was able to make whilst learning along the way. I also edited a lot of pictures in Photoshop learning different techniques from the designers on how to make a photo look more effective.

I personally am also interested in business and wanted to get a better understanding of how a web design business is run. I was able to speak to Dan (the director) about the experience of running school website and the difficulties he faced in the 10 years the company has been running. He gave me advice and recommended a book to read which would help me along my way if I was serious about running my own business.

School Website is a fun and relaxed placed to work I enjoy and enjoyed working there and would, if the opportunity arises, work there again."

From Charterhouse - where association football was reportedly founded - to Rugby School - where the game of Rugby gets its name thanks to the legend of William Webb Ellis - these two independent school heavyweights have both selected School Website to develop their new online presence.

'There are few, if any, older or more prestigious than Charterhouse or Rugby in the UK and both have global reputations. They are steeped in history yet famous for their forward thinking approach, so it is a massive compliment and an indication of our success that either one, let alone both see School Website as being the future for them when it comes to their website and online presence.' Daniel Clarke, Managing Director

Whilst Charterhouse and Rugby are some of the most well known names we are also delighted to be selected by the likes of Felsted, Colfe’s, Collingham, Ackworth, Formarke Hall, Sunningdale as well as two more of the GDST schools and the E.Ivor Hughes Foundation.

‘After going up against all of the major players in the education market we are delighted to come out on top and be awarded this contract. I think this shows that we not only offer the best web content management system available to schools but can also back that up with some of the most creative and eye catching designs. We look forward to working with ARK Schools and each of its Academies to produce an excellent group of websites.' - Daniel Clarke, Managing Director

To find out more about ARK Schools go to http://www.arkschools.org

If you are a school based in Ireland then why not get in touch and find out how School Website can help your school.

At School Website we've started 2010 with a bang. More projects and more enquiries than ever before, as well as some very exciting International expansion opportunities soon to be announced.

Consequently we are recruiting for the following positions:

Project Manager

We are looking for a good communicator, ideally with experience of managing web/print related projects. Knowledge and understanding of the web is crucial as is an ability to explain complex propositions to non technical clients.

Website Developer

We are looking for a talented web developer to join our application development team. As a minimum you must have the following knowledge/experience:

• C# ASP. Net (1-2 years)
• Object Oriented Programming/Object Oriented Design
• .NET 2.0 and . NET 3.5
• AJAX. NET
• LINQ
• SQL 2000 - 2008, T-SQL, Stored Procedures
• Javascript and helper libraries such as jQuery and Prototype

Business Development

Our sales team is expanding! We are looking for someone that ideally has experience of selling similar products (web /software related) to the education sector. You will be responsible for visiting potential clients and demonstrating our range of education based products. A full clean driving licence is therefore essential.

If you are interested in joining a dynamic and exciting organisation then please email Sam Sentance at sams@schoolwebsite.co.uk attaching your CV and including the position you are applying for in the subject line.

PLEASE NOTE: We are based in Richmond, Surrey. All applicants must live within an easily commutable distance or should be willing to consider relocation.

Founded in 1611, Charterhouse is one of the nine original public schools as defined by the Public Schools Act of 1868. The school moved to its current site in Godalming, Surrey in 1872 and has continued its tradition of academic excellence and sporting achievement.

Though steeped in history and tradition, Charterhouse see their 400th anniversary next year as a good opportunity to reassess their online presence and create something truly modern that exceeds the expectations of a typical school website. School Website’s design ability, CMS functionality and individual approach won out over a series of competitors and we look forward to a long and exciting partnership.

Come to stand R53 to learn more about how your school can strengthen its brand, improve its marketing and communicate better. All visitors to the School Website stand during the exhibition will benefit from a special discount rate on orders placed before the end of March.

For further details on the show visit http://www.education-show.com

You can view it at: http://kidszone.schoolwebsite.co.uk/

The feedback we have had so far has been brilliant. If you have any more comments then please feel free to get in touch and let us know. Have fun!

Even with an above-inflation rise in fees, pupil numbers in schools belonging to the Independent Schools Council have hit a record 511,677. This news comes on the eve of the annual ISC Conference and is likely to be a hot topic.

To keep up their appeal, the need for Independent Schools to effectively market themselves will become increasingly important and this is where School Website can help. We will be exhibiting at the ISC Annual Conference at The Brewery on London’s Chiswell Street on June 2nd and 3rd so come and visit us on stand 34 in the Queen Charlotte Room to see what we can do for your school.

One of Rose’s key findings was that ICT should play a central role in primary education alongside English and Maths. Rose also recommended that teachers receive additional support to help them teach ICT.

Becta, the government agency for technology in education, has welcomed the Rose Review and the emphasis it puts on technology in schools saying, “We absolutely believe that technology should be built into all subjects to support teaching and enhance children’s development through school – something which is backed by our extensive research and which we are very pleased to see as recommended in the report”.

The report talks of promoting greater involvement in ICT areas, something many schools we have worked with have said the website project has encouraged. We are in touch with a number of contacts in a school during the website design process and we aim to make it an easy experience as possible proving that the internet and new technology is a crucial resource in education and not a daunting complexity.

It was this idea of inclusion and simplicity we had in mind when creating the School Website Content Management System. We wanted to make the process of updating the website something the whole school could get involved with quickly and easily and many clients have told us their new websites have really benefitted their ICT education. With continual advances in technology that could hugely benefit the education sector, Sir Jim Rose’s recommendations stand as a positive vision for the progression of Primary education and are welcomed by School Website.

It is no coincidence then that last month saw School Website add some of the biggest names in the Independent Sector to its client portfolio.

Going head to head with our main competitors we were delighted to have been selected as the supplier of choice for every Independent school website contract that we pitched for in the month of March – giving us a hugely impressive 100% success rate.

Repton School in Derbyshire, Orley Farm in Harrow and Brambletye in West Sussex are just a few of the big names to choose School Website in March for the development of their new website, prospectus or brand identity.

We look forward to working with all of these schools and the many others in producing an outstanding presence both online and offline for each of them.

The school has an enviable reputation in Bahrain as a high-achievingBritish style school and was voted by the Guardian as the bestInternational School in the Middle East. We look forward to buildingthem a first class website that reflects that ethos. Keep checkingschoolwebsite.co.uk for updates and you should see the finished productin our portfolio in the not too distant future.

Being a school website design specialist, we couldn't be in a more competitive market for search engine rankings, yet our own website has more than 70 number one positions, eclipsing every one of our competitors for both the number of listings and their ranking.

If your school is looking to raise its profile, promote a specific event or maximise its online potential then call us now on 0845 262 2030 to speak to one of our search engine specialists.

Many of you may have seen us at the BETT show last month and we’dlike to say thank you to everyone who visited our stand. It was ahugely successful and informative four days for the School Websiteteam. We saw many old friends and a huge number of new faces from allover the world. There were a record number of clients who signed upwith us on the spot and we look forward to working on so many excitingnew projects. Roll on BETT 2010!

This new feature comes integrated with our new Content Management System (CMS) which will be showcased at Bett 2009. On stand you will be able to meet a number of schools that have implemented the new Fluency System. They will tell you how it works, what its capable of and also how it has benefited their school over the last couple of months.

On stand we will also be providing 'live demonstrations' of schools using the system, so that you can get to grips with the power and control that Fluency will give your school.

If you are not attending the show or would prefer a one-to-one demonstration at your school then call 0845 262 2030.

Download Internet Explorer 7
Download Firefox
Download Safari

The Internet Explorer 6 browser was released back in 2001, and Internet Explorer 7, the replacement, was released nearly two years ago in 2006. Modern web browsers such as IE 7, Firefox, and Safari provide significantly better online experiences. Since IE 6 usage has finally dipped below a small minority threshold of our customers, it's time to finally move beyond IE 6.

What are the implications of this transition?
As of October 1, 2008, future features and any improvements made to existing features may not work with IE 6. If you are using IE 7, Firefox 2 or 3, or Safari, you don't have to do anything — everything will continue as is for you. However, if you are using IE 6, and you want to make sure everything works, you will need to upgrade your browser to either IE 7, Firefox, or Safari. All of these browsers are free and all of them will deliver a much better overall online experience and security. The web will be a lot better for you.

Why are we making this change?
IE 6 is a last-generation browser. This means that IE 6 can't provide the same web experience that modern browsers can. Continued support of IE 6 means that we can't optimise our interfaces or provide an enhanced customer experience in our apps. Supporting IE 6 means slower progress, less progress, and, in some places, no progress at all. We want to make sure the experience is the best it can be for the vast majority of our customers, and continuing to support IE 6 holds us back.

Thanks again
Thanks again for your continued support. We look forward to dropping the rusty weight of IE 6 and improving the overall customer experience moving forward.

We hope this gives you time to make the necessary arrangements to upgrade your web browsers.

New features include a new gallery and slide show maker, school shop, survey / poll wizard, calendar creation tool, web blogger with feedback moderator and podcaster, all of which can be added to any page of your website at the click of a button!

If you would like to arrange a demo of our new CMS call 0845 262 2030.