10 Types of Promotional Video for Your Independent School
Video is one of the most effective tools at your disposal. From raising admissions to driving fundraising, the right film at the right moment can be a game-changer. Here are 10 essential types of promotional video for independent schools—complete with real examples, expert tips, and ideas for maximising impact.
1. Admissions Video
Purpose: Guide prospective families through the application journey.
Why it works: A well-crafted admissions video combines helpful information with emotional reassurance—building trust before a prospect even steps on site.
🎥 Marlborough College Admissions Video
2. Brand Film
Purpose: Showcase who you are and what you stand for.
Why it works: Brand films are about feeling, not features. They capture your school’s spirit through story, tone, and strong visual identity.
🎥 St Albans High School for Girls (STAHS) Brand Film
3. Entry Point Video (Reception, Year 7, Sixth Form)
Purpose: Help families visualise transition points with clarity and confidence.
Why it works: These moments are often when families make big decisions. Tailoring a video for each entry stage helps answer their questions directly.
🎥 Wellington College – First Impressions at Sixth Form
4. Department or Subject Video
Purpose: Highlight academic and extracurricular excellence.
Why it works: Whether it’s music, sport, or science, showcasing standout departments can attract families looking for specific strengths.
🎥 Marlborough College Music Department Video
5. Testimonial Video
Purpose: Provide authentic, believable social proof.
Why it works: Nothing beats hearing directly from someone who’s been there.
🎥 King’s College Taunton – Student Testimonial
6. Day-in-the-Life Video
Purpose: Show prospective families what school life really feels like.
Why it works: A day-in-the-life format builds familiarity and connection, helping viewers imagine themselves in your environment.
7. Fundraising / Campaign Video
Purpose: Inspire action and drive donations.
Why it works: A powerful fundraising film makes the case for giving by focusing on lives changed, not just money raised.
🎥 The Marlborough Difference – Bursary Appeal
8. Social Media Adverts
Purpose: Grab attention and generate clicks across digital platforms.
Why it works: Short-form video is king on social—and schools that embrace this are more visible and memorable.
9. Head’s Welcome Video
Purpose: Offer a personal message of warmth and leadership.
Why it works: A Head’s welcome can humanise your website and make virtual visitors feel more connected.
10. Welcome or Onboarding Video
Purpose: Support new joiners and their families before the first day.
Why it works: It builds confidence, answers questions, and sets expectations before term even starts.
Tips to Maximise Impact
- Re-version everything: Full-length, 60s, 30s, 15s, and vertical 9:16 versions.
- Format for channel: Square or vertical for Instagram and TikTok; subtitled widescreen for YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook.
- Use cut-downs: Teaser clips for email, social posts and paid ads.
- Host it smart: YouTube for SEO; Vimeo for brand control; embed on landing pages.
Want more?
- How to Create a Promotional Video for Your School
- Best School Promotional Videos
- What to Include in a School Promotional Video
- 55 Marketing Ideas for Private Schools
Let’s bring your story to life
We help independent schools create video content that’s strategic, emotive, and unforgettable. From fundraising to Sixth Form films, we’ve done it all.
Fill out the form on our contact page and start the conversation.
