With the 15th January 2025 primary school admissions deadline fast approaching and the Christmas break imminent, now is the time for schools to give their pupil numbers a final push. If your goal is to attract new families, the next few days are critical. The good news? You don’t need a huge budget or weeks of planning to make an impact. Here are some quick, cost-effective ideas to help boost admissions before the term ends.

1. Follow Up with Families Who’ve Visited

If you’ve shown parents and carers around the school in recent weeks or months, now is the time to reach out. A personal phone call or email thanking them for visiting and reminding them of the application deadline can make a real difference.

What you can do: Check your visitor log, prioritise those families who seemed particularly engaged, and follow up with a friendly message. Personal touches often tip the scales.

2. Showcase Your School on Social Media

Parents are scrolling on social media daily, so make sure your school stands out. Share photos, videos, and posts highlighting what makes your school special – from festive classroom activities to success stories, community involvement, and student achievements.

What you can do: Post short, engaging content showcasing the school’s values, warmth, and excellence. Don’t forget to include a reminder of the admissions deadline and a call to action (“Visit our website to apply before 15th January!”).

3. Encourage Parent Ambassadors

Your existing parents are your best advocates. A positive word-of-mouth recommendation from them to friends or family can go a long way.

What you can do:: Send a quick note to current parents, letting them know that the admissions deadline is fast approaching and asking them to share their positive experiences with others in their community. Sometimes, a gentle nudge is all it takes.

4. Send a Final Email Reminder to Prospective Families

If you have a list of prospective parents who have enquired about your school, send a short, targeted email reminding them of the upcoming deadline. Make it clear, warm, and to the point.

What you can do: Keep the email simple:

  • Include the deadline date (15th January).
  • Highlight 2-3 key strengths of the school.
  • Add a call to action (e.g., “Submit your application here today”).

5. Update Your Website’s Homepage

Make sure the admissions process is front and centre on your website. Parents visiting your page in the next few days should immediately see how to apply and when the deadline is.

What you can do: Add a clear banner or link to your admissions information with the deadline prominently displayed.

6. Add a Personal Touch with Handwritten Notes

For families who have expressed strong interest, consider sending a handwritten note home with a reminder of the deadline and an invitation to apply. Personal gestures show that you value their interest.

What you can do: Even a simple postcard can help families feel connected and encouraged to take the next step.

8. Promote Your Nursery Provision

While primary school admissions have a set deadline, nursery admissions often remain open year-round. Highlighting your nursery can attract families looking for immediate placements and foster long-term relationships that transition into primary school applications.

What you can do: Feature your nursery’s offerings in communications and on social media. Emphasise the seamless progression from nursery to primary education within your school, providing stability and continuity for children.

The next few days are an opportunity to highlight all the wonderful things your school has to offer. By following up personally, sharing positive stories, and making the process simple for parents, you can give your admissions a meaningful boost. Small, thoughtful actions now can make all the difference come January 15th.

Good luck, and enjoy a well-deserved break when it arrives!

iTCHYROBOT Schools will also be launching a quick and simple marketing course, aimed at supporting your school to boost admission numbers. Interested? email rebecca@itchyrobot.co.uk for more information.