Around the world: Maximising global reach - effective marketing strategies for international schools
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Marketing an international school effectively requires a strategic, multi-platform approach that leverages the power of social media, digital advertising, partnerships and community engagement. By delegating responsibilities and involving staff, students and external partners, schools can create authentic and engaging content that builds their reputation and attracts prospective families.
Here are five best practices to maximise marketing impact.
1. Engage the school community in social media management
Involving both staff and students in social media management allows the entire school community to feel engaged and take pride in promoting the institution. This approach increases school visibility and fosters a sense of ownership and belonging.
Social media is a powerful tool for showcasing school life and student achievements. Establishing a Journalism Club responsible for running YouTube and TikTok channels enables students to produce engaging videos highlighting key events, academic milestones and creative endeavors. With student-driven content achieving up to 1 million views per video, this initiative not only enhances the school's online presence but also develops students' media and storytelling skills.
Instagram and Facebook provide ideal platforms for sharing school updates, classroom highlights and student success stories. Assigning your school's Business Manager to oversee these platforms, while involving teachers in contributing content, fosters authentic engagement. Schools that implement this approach often see significant audience growth, with thousands of likes per post, reinforcing community involvement and school spirit.
A school's website is its central hub of information for prospective and current families. Utilising Google Ads to drive traffic while maintaining a social channel for real-time updates ensures that parents receive timely and relevant information regarding admissions, events, and academic programs. A well-executed digital marketing strategy results in higher engagement, increased clicks, and improved enrollment numbers.
2. Enhancing visibility through publications
Publishing engaging content regularly helps maintain strong communication with students, parents, alumni, teachers and partners. Schools can achieve this through termly newsletters, which provide updates on academic and extracurricular activities, ensuring the school community stays informed. Annual alumni newsletters celebrate the achievements of former students, reinforcing alumni relations and keeping past students connected with the institution. Additionally, biannual school magazines feature insights from students, parents, staff, and partners on educational trends, school developments, and community projects, making them a valuable resource for fostering engagement and institutional pride.
3. Engaging with the local community
International schools that engage in community outreach programmes enhance their reputation and demonstrate social responsibility. Schools can lead projects such as beach cleanups, supporting underfunded schools, and hosting community events in partnership with local organisations. For example, collaboration with North Coast Ratepayers & Residents Association (NCRRA) strengthens our school's commitment to sustainability and community support.
4. Long term partnerships and collaboration with external organisations
International schools can expand their reach and enhance their reputation by hosting high-profile events in collaboration with external organisations while simultaneously fostering long-term partnerships through student-led clubs.
Events such as the Google Developer Group (GDG) IT Festival, hosted alongside the GDG IT club, promote STEM learning in our school. Similarly, the SunShine Rally Festival, organised in partnership with the Rotary Club in Nairobi, strengthens inclusivity and leadership development through our Interact club. Other impactful collaborations include Blood Donation Day with the Red Cross Society, encouraging social responsibility through the Red Cross club, and the International Open Chess Tournament enhances critical thinking and strategic skills through our Chess club.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DoE) International Awards training, in conjunction with our DoE club, fosters personal development, while participation in the World Scholar’s Cup Regional Round through the Debates club, promotes academic excellence. These initiatives not only provide students with leadership opportunities and community involvement but also reinforce the school’s global reputation for holistic education and extracurricular excellence.
In conclusion
By implementing these multi-faceted marketing strategies, international schools can enhance their visibility, strengthen community engagement, and elevate their brand reputation. Leveraging student-driven content, staff involvement, digital marketing, partnerships, and community service, schools can showcase their unique strengths and attract a global audience of students, educators and partners.
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