Category Archives: Education

Mapping Student Personas to Videos, Channels, and the Recruitment Funnel for UK Universities

In today’s competitive higher education landscape, UK universities need smarter strategies to attract, engage, and convert prospective students. Whether you’re focused on domestic undergraduates, high-achieving international students, or career-driven postgraduates, student recruitment success depends on understanding your audience deeply – before you create a single advert or piece of content.

That’s why detailed marketing personas are the foundation of effective education marketing and university admissions campaigns. A persona is more than a demographic category like “international student” or “mature learner.” It’s a rich, research-based profile that combines motivations, challenges, behaviours, and decision-making influences. Without this depth, student recruitment campaigns risk being generic, irrelevant, or even off-putting.

Why Personas Matter in Student Recruitment and Education Marketing?

Targeted storytelling – Identify exactly which benefits resonate with each group, whether it’s employability outcomes, flexible study, or global mobility.
Efficient channel use – Focus your budget where your audience actually spends time online.
Higher conversion rates – Prospective students are more likely to take action when the message feels personally relevant.
Aligned university teams – Recruitment, marketing, and admissions teams can work from a shared strategy.

When you tailor education marketing around personas, you stop shouting into the void and start having meaningful conversations with the people most likely to apply and enrol.

Video Content and Platforms for Key University Student Personas

Video is a critical tool in modern student recruitment, but only if it’s built around the needs of specific personas. Here’s how to pair the right content with the right platforms.

Persona	Best Video Content	Best Distribution Platforms
Sophie – UK Undergrad	Day-in-the-life vlogs, society highlights, accommodation tours, graduate success stories	TikTok, Instagram Reels, Snapchat
Aiden – Domestic Mature Undergrad	Mature student case studies, flexible learning explainers, childcare support features	LinkedIn, YouTube, local Facebook groups
Liu – International Undergrad	Alumni from home country, visa guidance, campus safety, city life tours	WeChat, WhatsApp, YouTube, local-time webinars
Alex – Domestic Postgrad (Taught)	Industry projects, placement interviews, course leader intros	LinkedIn, YouTube, targeted email
Dr. Priya – International PhD	Supervisor interviews, lab tours, funded project spotlights	Faculty webpages, ResearchGate, conference live streams
Nina – MBA / CPD	Executive alumni testimonials, ROI case studies, employer partner interviews	LinkedIn Ads, corporate email campaigns
Sam – Part-time / Online Learner	Micro-credential explainers, flexible delivery demos	LinkedIn Learning tie-ins, YouTube, email nurturing
Jordan – Apprenticeship / Vocational	Employer endorsements, workplace training footage, levy funding explainers	Local job boards, FE college portals
Margaret – Parent	Safety briefings, cost breakdown animations, alumni parents’ testimonials	Email newsletters, Facebook, printable PDFs
Helen – Employer / Sponsor	Co-branded programme overviews, KPI dashboards, staff success case studies	LinkedIn, employer events

Mapping Personas to the University Admissions Funnel

Personas work best when paired with the student recruitment funnel – ensuring your education marketing content is relevant at each stage:

Funnel Stage	Awareness	Consideration	Decision
Sophie	TikTok campus life clips	Instagram course Q&A reels	Student ambassador 1:1 calls
Aiden	LinkedIn “career change” stories	Evening webinar on part-time study	Personalised email with timetable & childcare info
Liu	YouTube “Why I chose the UK” series	WhatsApp Q&A with international officer	Agent follow-up with scholarship + visa checklist
Alex	LinkedIn posts on industry trends	Course-specific webinar	Faculty video call + placement guarantee
Dr. Priya	ResearchGate post of papers	Supervisor intro videos	Funding offer video + lab tour
Nina	LinkedIn ROI infographic	Executive alumni panel recording	Employer meeting with programme director
Sam	YouTube shorts on micro-credentials	Platform demo video	Credit transfer guide
Jordan	Employer intro video	Apprenticeship funding explainer	Employer HR + university joint call
Margaret	Parent safety & cost videos	Parent webinar	Personalised cost calculator email
Helen	LinkedIn case study	KPI reporting demo	SLA review video

his mapping ensures that university admissions messaging evolves with the prospect’s journey – building trust until they’re ready to apply.

The Role of Third-Party Decision Makers in Student Recruitment

In many university admissions decisions, the applicant is not the only voice that matters. Campaigns must address third-party influencers:

Parents (critical for school-leavers and international students) – Emphasise financial transparency, safety, and graduate outcomes.
Employers (important for part-time, CPD, and MBA students) – Highlight ROI, productivity benefits, and flexible delivery.
Funding bodies & supervisors (for research degrees) – Demonstrate academic excellence, research fit, and facilities.
Local authorities & government (for apprenticeships) – Show compliance, skills impact, and community benefit.

How to Integrate Third-Party Content into Education Marketing

Parent packs – Cost breakdowns, safety briefings, alumni parent interviews.
Employer engagement materials – ROI reports, co-branding options, partnership benefits.
Joint touchpoints – Webinars for both students and decision-makers.
Rapid responses – Delays in answering parents or employers can cost you applications.

By recognising these influencers early, your student recruitment strategy will address all the people who matter in the admissions decision.

Steps to Build Persona-Driven Student Recruitment Campaigns

Before you create your next education marketing campaign:

Identify your priority personas for the intake cycle.
Research motivations, pain points, and preferred channels—don’t rely on assumptions.
Map each persona to the recruitment funnel with specific content ideas.
Choose the right distribution platforms—match media spend to actual audience behaviour.
Create secondary content for third-party decision makers.
Measure and optimise—track conversion rates for each persona’s journey.

Final Word on Personas in University Admissions

In the world of student recruitment, “everyone” is not your audience. When UK universities invest the time to create detailed personas, they unlock the ability to deliver the right message, in the right format, at the right time – dramatically increasing the likelihood of conversion.

Done well, persona-driven education marketing isn’t just about filling places. It builds trust, strengthens the student experience from day one, and creates alumni advocates who promote your institution long after graduation.

For university admissions teams looking to rise above the noise, there’s no faster way to waste budget than launching campaigns without personas—and no better way to maximise impact than to start with them.

How to Boost Open Day Attendance to Your School with Strategic Video Marketing

For independent schools in the UK, an open day isn’t just a date on the calendar — it’s the moment when prospective parents and pupils get to experience your school’s unique personality, ethos and offering in a tangible way. But in a crowded market, the challenge isn’t only to host a great open day; it’s to make sure the right families actually turn up.

That’s where strategic video production becomes a game-changer in education marketing.

Video is the most engaging digital format available to schools today. When used intelligently, it can not only raise awareness but also create a strong emotional connection before a parent even sets foot on your campus — a key advantage in student recruitment campaigns.

In this article, we’ll look at the most effective types of video to use, how to distribute them without breaking the budget, how to tailor them to different stages of the recruitment funnel, and how to incorporate calls-to-action that turn viewers into attendees.

Why Video Production is a Game-Changer for Open Day Recruitment

Professional — or even well-planned in-house — video production allows you to show your school, not just talk about it. Prospective parents can hear from your headteacher, watch pupils interact, and get a visual feel for your facilities and ethos — all from their phones or laptops. According to Wyzowl’s 2024 Video Marketing Statistics, 88% of people say a video convinced them to buy a product or service. For schools, that “purchase” is booking an open day slot.

In the context of education marketing for UK private schools, video works particularly well because:

It conveys prestige and warmth simultaneously — essential for building trust with fee-paying families.
It can reach parents who aren’t yet actively searching — planting the seed before they shortlist schools.
It provides shareable content that alumni, current parents and local community groups can circulate.

Understanding the School Recruitment Marketing Funnel

Before you start filming, it’s important to recognise that not all prospective parents are in the same place on their decision-making journey. Broadly, there are two main audience segments:

Aware Parents – They already know your school by name, may have visited your website or spoken to current parents, and are actively considering whether to attend your open day.
Unaware Parents – They may not have heard of your school at all, or only vaguely. They’re not yet actively searching, but they fit your target profile.

The recruitment marketing funnel for schools has three broad stages:

Top of Funnel (Awareness): Introduce the school to new audiences.
Middle of Funnel (Consideration): Provide more detail and build trust.
Bottom of Funnel (Decision): Drive direct action, such as booking the open day.

Your video production strategy should deliver the right content to each audience at the right stage. This approach is a cornerstone of effective student recruitment.

Tailoring Video for Unaware Parents

For this group, your aim is to capture attention and create curiosity. The focus should be on:

School Story Brand Films that showcase ethos, values, and atmosphere.
Subject or Activity Spotlights highlighting standout features (e.g., exceptional music department, award-winning sports teams).
Targeted social media ads with short, high-impact clips designed to pique interest and lead them to your website.

At this stage, you’re not asking them to “book now” straight away. Instead, encourage them to learn more and discover why your school might be right for their child.

Tailoring Video for Aware Parents

These families are further down the funnel and need a compelling reason to act. Focus on:

Headteacher or Admissions Invitation Videos with a personal, warm call-to-action.
Parent and Pupil Testimonials addressing common questions or hesitations.
Behind-the-Scenes Previews of what they’ll experience at the open day.

Here, urgency is your ally. Make your CTAs time-bound (“Join us on Saturday 12 October – spaces are limited”). These videos should remove the final barriers to attendance and complete the student recruitment journey from interest to commitment.

The Most Effective Types of Video for Driving Open Day Attendance

When planning your video production for education marketing, the key is to match your video type to the parent’s stage in the funnel.

(1) The “School Story” Brand Film

Purpose: Build emotional connection and position your school’s ethos.
Content: A 2–3 minute cinematic film featuring interviews with leadership, teachers, and pupils; sweeping drone shots of the grounds; and glimpses of classroom life.
Why it works: It gives parents the why behind choosing your school and encourages them to find out more — ideally by attending the open day.

(2) Parent & Pupil Testimonials

Purpose: Provide social proof and reassurance.
Content: Short (60–90 seconds) clips of parents explaining why they chose your school, or pupils sharing what they love most.
Why it works: UK parents often trust peer recommendations more than prospectuses. Hearing directly from other parents can overcome hesitations.

(3) Open Day Invitation Video

Purpose: Drive immediate action.
Content: A personable on-camera invite from the headteacher or admissions lead, outlining what’s special about the upcoming event. End with a clear date, time, and booking link.
Why it works: It’s direct, time-sensitive, and makes the open day feel like a personal invitation rather than a generic event.

(4) Subject or Activity Spotlights

Purpose: Showcase unique strengths.
Content: 30–60 second clips focusing on areas like performing arts, STEM facilities, or sports teams.
Why it works: They appeal to niche interests of certain families and may tip the balance for parents comparing schools.

(5) Behind-the-Scenes Social Clips

Purpose: Humanise the school.
Content: Informal smartphone videos from staff or pupils preparing for the open day, sneak peeks of displays, or rehearsal snippets from student performances.
Why it works: They create anticipation and make the school feel accessible rather than intimidating.

How to Distribute Video Effectively on a Budget

Even with a modest education marketing budget, you can make a significant impact if you focus on smart distribution.

(1) Leverage Social Media Algorithms

Facebook & Instagram: Ideal for reaching local parents through both organic posts and targeted ads. Even £50–£100 in paid promotion can put your video in front of thousands of parents in your catchment area.
LinkedIn: Useful for connecting with professional parents and alumni networks.
TikTok & Instagram Reels: Increasingly relevant if your target families include younger parents or if you want to highlight pupil-led content.

Tip: Post natively to each platform rather than using cross-posting tools — algorithms reward native uploads with higher reach.

(2) Email Marketing with Embedded Thumbnails

Embed video links into your email newsletters to boost open and click-through rates. In student recruitment campaigns, subject lines that promise video content (e.g., “Your personal invitation to our Autumn Open Day [VIDEO]”) often outperform plain text.

(3) Your School Website Homepage

Feature your open day video prominently with a visible “Book Your Place” button — crucial for conversion in education marketing.

(4) Parent WhatsApp Groups and Local Forums

Leverage your existing community to share invitation videos and testimonials in relevant local groups.

(6) Press Releases to Local Media

Offer local outlets a video they can embed in coverage about your open day. This expands your reach with minimal spend.

Crafting Calls-to-Action That Get Results

Video production for student recruitment must always include a clear, compelling next step.

Golden rules for CTAs in school marketing videos:

Be direct and specific – Instead of “Find out more”, say “Book your place for our Autumn Open Day on 12 October via the link below.”
Repeat the CTA – Mention it at least twice.
Use on-screen text – Reinforce spoken instructions visually.
Create urgency – If spaces are limited, say so.
Track and optimise – Use unique URLs or UTM codes to monitor results.

Maximising Impact with a Simple Timeline

Here’s a sample 6-week education marketing campaign plan:

6 weeks before: Release your “School Story” brand film (targeting unaware parents).
4 weeks before: Publish testimonials (targeting both audiences).
3 weeks before: Launch your headteacher’s direct invitation video (targeting aware parents).
2 weeks before: Share subject/activity spotlights (targeting unaware parents moving to consideration).
Final week: Post daily behind-the-scenes teasers (targeting both audiences).

Measuring Success and Learning for Next Time

Track these key metrics:

Views and watch time – gauge engagement.
Click-through rates – measure CTA effectiveness.
Actual attendance – the ultimate student recruitment KPI.

Analyse performance to refine your next video production plan.

Final Thoughts

A strong video production strategy isn’t about spending thousands on glossy films — it’s about telling the right stories, to the right people, at the right time. By creating a blend of emotional brand films, trust-building testimonials, and direct invitation videos — and by tailoring them to whether a parent knows your school or not — UK private schools can elevate their education marketing and drive more successful student recruitment outcomes.

In a competitive sector, a well-planned video campaign can be the difference between an open day with half-empty tours and one fully booked with families who already feel connected to your school before they arrive.

Why 2025–26 Will Be a Challenging Year for Independent Schools

Independent schools have always operated in a competitive marketplace, but the 2025–26 academic year is shaping up to be especially complex. The UK’s economic outlook is still marked by cost-of-living pressures, fluctuating interest rates, and a more cautious consumer mindset. For many prospective parents — even those in the target demographic for fee-paying education — the decision to commit to annual fees is now weighed against other financial priorities.

Adding to this challenge is the introduction of VAT on independent school fees, which has instantly raised the cost of attendance for every family. For some, this change has shifted private education from “stretch but possible” to “out of reach.” Even for those still able to afford it, the psychological effect is real — parents are scrutinising the decision far more closely and are more likely to demand tangible evidence of value before committing.

For marketing, recruitment, and admissions teams, this means demonstrating return on investment (ROI) in ways that resonate emotionally and factually. It’s not enough to look prestigious — you must prove your school delivers measurable outcomes worth the financial sacrifice.

And here’s where a well-crafted flagship school film can be one of your most powerful tools.

Why Video is the Perfect Medium in a Value-Conscious Market

1. Video Delivers Emotional Impact

When parents are comparing options, emotion often drives the final decision. A flagship film allows you to create an immediate, visceral connection: the warmth of a teacher’s encouragement, the joy of a child’s achievement, the pride of an alum speaking from experience. These moments are far more persuasive when seen and heard than when described in print.

2. Video Shows, Not Just Tells

It’s one thing to claim that your school nurtures academic excellence or builds character. It’s another to let parents see a Year 13 student confidently delivering a research presentation, or a sports team celebrating a national win. Visual storytelling builds credibility instantly.

3. Video Combines Storytelling with Evidence

The strongest recruitment messages mix narrative with data. A flagship film can balance authentic student and parent testimonials with on-screen graphics showing university acceptance rates, scholarship achievements, or alumni career success.

Reassuring Parents Through Storytelling

In today’s climate — with VAT inflating fees and household budgets under strain — parents are asking, “What will my child gain here that justifies the cost?” Your flagship film should answer that question directly through three key lenses:

1. Academic and Career Outcomes

Feature recent alumni talking about where their education took them — whether that’s a Russell Group university, a leading arts conservatoire, or an entrepreneurial venture. Including these voices shows that your promises are backed by real-world results.

2. Pastoral Care and Personal Development

In an uncertain economy, stability matters. Use video to show the safety, wellbeing support, and inclusive culture that parents want for their children. Scenes of small class sizes, engaged teachers, and supportive peer networks communicate an environment where children thrive beyond grades.

3. Value Beyond the Classroom

Highlight enrichment programmes, global exchanges, or specialist facilities that add value parents can’t find elsewhere. This reinforces that fees cover far more than teaching time — they’re an investment in a broad, formative experience.

Structuring a Flagship Film to Communicate ROI

Here’s a proven structure that works well in the current climate:

Opening Hook (First 10 Seconds)
- A powerful visual and audio cue that sets the emotional tone — e.g., a close-up of a student’s proud smile at graduation.
The Promise
- A statement of your school’s core value proposition: “Here, every student finds their path and the skills to walk it.”
Proof Points
- Cut between authentic stories and measurable results: UCAS offers, scholarships, competition wins, alumni milestones.
The Experience
- Immersive footage of campus life, extra-curricular activities, and day-to-day learning.
Future Focus
- Alumni and older students sharing what comes next for them, showing the school as a springboard to success.
Call to Action
- Invite the viewer to visit, enquire, or attend an open day — keeping the momentum from inspiration to action.

Making the Film Work Harder Across Channels

Your flagship film shouldn’t be a single-use asset. In a tight-budget environment — and with VAT changes making every marketing pound accountable — multi-channel deployment is essential.

YouTube & Instagram Ads

Shortened, high-impact edits (15–30 seconds) for awareness campaigns targeting parents in your catchment area or specific income brackets.

School Website

Feature the full version prominently on your homepage and admissions landing pages. Include a “From Our Parents” or “From Our Alumni” section to link back to ROI themes.

Email Campaigns

Embed snippets in prospect nurturing sequences, with CTAs to watch the full film or book a visit.

Open Days

Play the film in reception areas, during presentations, and on loop in the background — it sets the emotional tone before staff even speak.

International Recruitment

Add subtitles in key languages and supply to agents overseas. For boarding prospects, include footage showing accommodation and community life.

Overcoming Objections Through Video

In value-sensitive markets, parents may have three main objections:

“It’s too expensive.”

> Counter by showing breadth of opportunities, personal attention, and long-term outcomes that make the investment worthwhile.

“My child can get a good education elsewhere.”

> Differentiate through the unique aspects of your ethos, community, and extracurricular offer.

“We’re not sure about the return on investment.”

> Use alumni success stories and tangible results to prove long-term benefits.

A flagship film lets you proactively address these concerns before they’re raised in a conversation.

Measuring the Impact of Your Flagship Film

To justify future investment in video, track:

View-through rates on ads and social posts.
Clicks to enquiry forms from video embeds.
Open day sign-ups following film release.
Parent feedback during tours (“We saw the video and…”).

Combining these metrics with qualitative feedback will help you fine-tune both the content and distribution strategy.

The Takeaway for 2025–26

With VAT now inflating independent school fees and household finances under strain, recruitment teams face a dual challenge: attracting the right families and justifying the investment in a fee-paying education.

A flagship promotional film, carefully crafted and strategically deployed, can become the linchpin of your student recruitment, education marketing, and admissions strategy. By blending emotional storytelling with concrete results, your video reassures parents that their child’s future — and their financial commitment — are in safe, capable hands.

The Different Types of Explainer Video (and When to Use Them)

Explainer videos are one of the most effective tools a company can use to communicate clearly and quickly. Whether you’re introducing a new product, breaking down a complex process, or trying to change behaviour, explainer videos cut through the noise and help your message land.

But not all explainer videos are created equal. There are several styles and formats, each suited to different goals, audiences, and platforms. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types — and how to decide which is right for you.

1. Animated Explainer Videos

What it is:
A stylised animation that uses motion graphics, icons, text, characters or illustrations to explain a concept.

Best for:
– Simplifying abstract or complex ideas
– Saas or tech products
– Explaining systems, processes or data
– Budget-conscious campaigns (compared to live action)

Why it works:
Animation gives you complete control over the visual world. If it can be imagined, it can be animated. It’s perfect for explaining things you can’t easily show in the real world.

2. Live Action Explainer Videos

What it is:
A real-world, filmed video — often featuring a presenter, customer, product demo, or company spokesperson.

Best for:
– Building trust and human connection
– Products that need to be physically demonstrated
– Professional services and consultancy
– Customer testimonials with an explainer angle

Why it works:
There’s something powerful about seeing real people talk to camera or show how something works. Live action adds personality and authenticity, which can be crucial in high-trust industries.

3. Whiteboard Videos

What it is:
A visual story drawn by hand on a whiteboard (or digital whiteboard-style background), usually accompanied by voiceover narration.

Best for:
– Educational content
– Step-by-step breakdowns
– Budget-friendly explainers
– Internal training or onboarding

Why it works:
The drawing-in-real-time style keeps viewers engaged and makes the information feel easy to follow. It’s also an affordable, evergreen format that can be reused again and again.

4. Product Demo Videos

What it is:
A walkthrough of your product in action — screen recordings, physical demonstrations, or step-by-step tutorials.

Best for:
– Software companies (screen capture with narration)
– E-commerce or physical products
– Onboarding and support
– Closing deals (as sales enablement)

Why it works:
Showing is better than telling. Product demos give your audience clarity and confidence — especially if they’re on the fence.

5. Hybrid Explainer Videos

What it is:
A combination of live action and animation — for example, a talking head with motion graphics layered over the top.

Best for:
– High-impact brand storytelling
– Case studies and testimonials
– Thought leadership
– When you want to mix credibility with clarity

Why it works:
Hybrid videos offer the best of both worlds — the human connection of live action with the flexibility and clarity of animation.

6. FAQ or Myth-Busting Videos

What it is:
Short videos that address common questions, objections, or misconceptions — each focusing on one simple point.

Best for:
– Breaking down resistance in the sales journey
– Pre-empting objections
– Content series for email or social
– Internal communications

Why it works:
They’re short, targeted, and practical. Great for audiences who already have some awareness, and just need a nudge.

7. Company or “Who We Are” Explainers

What it is:
A top-level introduction to your business — who you are, what you do, who you help, and why you’re different.

Best for:
– Homepage videos
– Pitch decks
– Investor relations
– Recruitment

Why it works:
This kind of explainer tells your story in a sharp, confident, and human way — ideal for people discovering your brand for the first time.

Choosing the Right Explainer Video

The right format depends on your goal. Are you…

Educating a cold audience? Try animation or whiteboard.
Helping people understand your product? Go for a demo.
Building trust? Use live action or hybrid.
Looking for flexibility and scale? Animation gives you room to grow.

It also depends on your budget, timeline, and brand personality. The best explainer videos aren’t just clear — they’re aligned to your wider marketing and business strategy.

Final Thought

Explainer videos aren’t just about telling people what you do — they’re about making people care enough to take the next step. Whether it’s a 30-second animation or a full-blown product walkthrough, the best explainer videos feel effortless to watch and impossible to ignore.

Interested in working with a team that can help you bring your explainer video to life?

We help brands turn complexity into clarity with strategic, story-led content that drives action.

How to Create the Perfect Video Marketing Brief for Your School

As the landscape of school marketing continues to evolve, one thing has become increasingly clear: video content is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s essential.

From virtual tours and alumni testimonials to campaign ads and open day highlights, video helps independent schools stand out in a crowded marketplace. But creating content that truly moves the needle on admissions doesn’t happen by chance—it starts with a well-crafted brief.

Whether you’re working with a production agency or creating content in-house, a clear, goal-driven video brief can make all the difference. Not only does it ensure your time and budget are well spent, but it also lays the foundation for content that genuinely drives engagement, enquiries and applications.

In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to write an effective video marketing brief, no matter your budget, team size or experience level. You’ll learn:

What to include in every brief (and why it matters)
How to define success and measure ROI
Tips for aligning your video content with your school’s marketing funnel
The role of storytelling in connecting with prospective families

Why Your Video Brief Matters

Imagine hiring a photographer for your school’s prospectus shoot and giving them no idea who the photos are for, how they’ll be used, or what story they should tell. That’s essentially what happens when you approach video production without a strong brief.

A clear, comprehensive brief provides direction, sets expectations, and keeps your content aligned with your school’s brand, messaging and goals. It also helps you get more from your investment—by focusing on what really matters and avoiding scope creep or creative confusion.

8 Essential Elements of Every Good Video Marketing Brief

1. Project Overview

Start with a clear, simple summary. What is this video project, and why are you doing it?

Example:
“We want to create a series of three short-form videos to promote our Sixth Form Open Evening. These will be used in paid ads on Instagram and YouTube, targeting parents and students aged 15–17.”

Keep this high-level, but focused. Think of it as your project elevator pitch.

2. Objectives and Goals

This is one of the most critical (and often overlooked) sections.

Be clear about what success looks like. Define measurable objectives, for example:

Drive 200 clicks to our open event landing page
Achieve a video view rate of 50% or more on paid ads
Increase enquiries from Year 5 parents by 15% over the campaign period

Tip: Align your video goals with your broader marketing and admissions objectives.

3. Target Audience

Understanding exactly who your video is for is one of the most important steps in creating effective, high-performing content. Without a clear picture of your audience, you risk producing something that looks great—but doesn’t connect.

Break your audience down using categories like:

Age & School Stage

Prospective parents of Nursery/Pre-Prep pupils (ages 2–6)
Families considering Junior/Prep entry (ages 7–11)
Parents preparing for 11+ or 13+ transition
GCSE students and parents exploring Sixth Form
International families considering UK boarding from Year 9+
Alumni and former parents (legacy, donor, or community content)

Geographic Location

Local, regional, national and international families
Expat families looking for UK boarding options

Socioeconomic Profile

Full-fee families vs. bursary/scholarship-seekers
First-generation applicants vs. legacy families

Decision-Making Role

Parents and guardians
Students themselves (especially teens)
Extended family (grandparents, guardians)
Education agents and consultants

Psychographics & Motivations

Academic ambition, pastoral care, creative arts, SEN support, faith or values

Behavioural Factors

Cold vs. warm audiences
Visitors from specific referrers (e.g. ISC, Talk Education)

Platform Preferences

Parents on Facebook or LinkedIn
Teens on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube
International users via agency portals

Why this matters: Your audience affects tone, visuals, channels, and language. Be as specific as possible to drive engagement.

4. Key Messages

What are the 2–3 main things you want viewers to remember?

Your school’s unique strengths
Practical details (e.g. open day date, scholarships)
An emotional takeaway or story-driven message

5. Call to Action (CTA)

What should viewers do next? Register, book a tour, or watch more?

Ensure your CTA matches the stage of the marketing funnel the video targets.

6. Distribution Strategy

Where will the video be shown?

Paid or organic social media?
Your website or email campaigns?
Does it need different formats or subtitles?

7. Timeline and Key Dates

Include script deadlines, filming dates, review periods and launch milestones. Build in time for feedback and amends.

8. Budget Parameters

You don’t need an exact figure—but a range helps manage expectations and guide creative decisions early on.

Measuring Success: Setting Metrics That Matter

Set KPIs that reflect your original objectives. These might include:

View-through rate (VTR)
Click-through rate (CTR)
Engagement: likes, comments, watch time
Enquiries and application conversions

Use tools like Google Analytics, YouTube Analytics, or Meta Ads Manager. Track using UTM codes or custom landing pages for clear attribution.

Final Thoughts: Start With Strategy, Finish With Results

Video marketing doesn’t have to be daunting or expensive—but it does need a strategy. A strong brief ensures everyone’s aligned, keeps content purposeful, and helps you get maximum ROI.

Whether launching a major campaign or filming something simple, following this guide will give your video the best chance of success.

Want to learn more?
Join our free webinar, “How To Boost Applications at Your School with Video Content”, on Tuesday, September 16th at 12pm.

👉 Register now

🎬 Video Production London: A Guide for International Brands Working with UK Partners

If you’re an overseas brand looking for video production in London, you’re choosing one of the most vibrant and advanced production hubs in the world. With a deep pool of creative talent drawn from the UK’s world-class TV, film and commercial industries, London offers access to award-winning directors, producers, camera operators, editors and crew.

This guide is designed to help international marketing teams and agencies—particularly in the US—understand how video production works in London: what to expect, what it costs, how to find the right partner, and what you’ll need to know about logistics, permits, contracts and more.

🌍 Why London?

🎥 A world-renowned freelance talent pool from film, TV and commercial advertising
🎬 Cutting-edge camera, lighting and sound equipment (with access to dozens of specialist rental houses)
🏙️ Iconic and diverse filming locations—from brutalist architecture to royal parks
🏢 Top-tier studios with everything from green screen to sound stages
🌐 Bilingual and multicultural crew, well-versed in working on international projects

London is also ideally located for time zone overlap—great for collaborating between North America and Asia. Many projects we’ve worked on involved client teams in the US and post-production across APAC.

We’ve worked with dozens of foreign companies looking for a reliable, strategic UK partner—and we know exactly how to make it smooth.

🤝 What to Expect When Working with a London Video Production Company

👤 Freelancers vs Production Companies

You can hire individual freelancers (DOPs, editors, etc.) or work with a full-service agency. The latter is often simpler and more reliable for international projects.

📑 Contracts, Deposits and Payment Terms

Signed contract with scope, deliverables and timelines
Deposit (usually 25–50%) upfront
International payments accepted (GBP, Wise, bank wire)

🎥 Permits, Parking and Local Considerations

Small camera setups filming b-roll in public usually don’t require permits—but some boroughs and areas do. Tripods, lighting or crew setups typically trigger permit requirements.

Permits: £100–£400/day
Parking bay suspensions: £50–£200/day
Street parking: £50+ per day in central London

🏢 Studio Costs

Small studio: £500–£1,500/day
Green screen/lifestyle set: £1,500–£3,000/day
Broadcast sound stage: £5,000–£10,000+/day

🚗 Travel & Logistics

London is dense and expensive
Most crews use public transport or black cabs
Hotels: £150–£300/night for central locations

💷 What Does Video Production in London Cost?

Type of Project	Budget Range
Talking Head Interview	£2,000 – £5,000
Brand Film (1–2 mins)	£7,000 – £15,000
Social Ad (Short Form)	£3,000 – £8,000
Product Demo / Explainer	£5,000 – £15,000
Multi-location Campaign	£15,000 – £50,000+

💡 VAT (Sales Tax) Note for International Clients

If you’re based outside the UK and the services are \”exported\” digitally to a non-UK business, you typically don’t pay UK VAT (20%).

Confirm your business address and usage location
Ask for VAT clarification on your quote

✅ How to Choose the Right London Partner for Overseas Projects

🌎 Experience with International Clients

They should understand remote briefings, time zones, multi-format delivery and international workflows.

🎯 Full-Service Capabilities

Look for end-to-end service: creative, production, post-production, and delivery.

📃 Contracts, Insurance and Communication

Professional quoting, transparent billing and strong communication are essential.

✨ Why Work with Small Films?

We’ve worked with dozens of international clients—especially those based in the US—looking for a reliable, high-quality UK partner to bring their projects to life.

🎯 For example:

Eightfold – customer testimonial videos filmed in London
SEMrush – client testimonial produced in the UK

We offer:

🎥 Local crew and kit sourcing
🧠 Strategic development and planning
⚙️ Efficient pre and post-production
💻 Remote access to live shoots and real-time feedback
✅ Transparent pricing and fixed-fee contracts

And we’re easy to work with (our clients say so 😄).

🚀 Final Word: London is a Brilliant Place to Film—If You’re in the Right Hands

London gives you access to some of the best talent, equipment, and creativity in the world. But to make the most of it, you need a partner who knows the terrain—who can get the permits, manage the logistics, and keep your production running smoothly.

If you’re looking for a trusted video production partner in London, we’d love to help.

👉 Explore our video services
📽️ See our portfolio
📩 Get in touch

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.

🎥 Day-in-the-Life Video

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?

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.

🎓 New Webinar: How To Boost Applications at Your School with Video Content

If you work in marketing, admissions or recruitment at an independent school, you already know how competitive the landscape is. Parents have more choice than ever, and making your school stand out means rethinking how you communicate your story.

That’s where video and strategic content come in.

Join us for a
free one-hour webinar
designed specifically for independent school marketers, where we’ll show you how to use video and paid advertising to
drive more admissions, increase engagement, and
make your marketing budget go further.

What You’ll Learn:

How to tell compelling, authentic stories that set your school apart
The best types of video for each stage of your admissions funnel
How to build a long-term content strategy that delivers results
How to get your content seen with smart paid promotion
Practical tips to improve your return on investment

Whether you want to create a promotional video for your independent school, videos about departments on run video adverts on meta, YouTube or even television, this webinar will help you.

Meet the Hosts

George Hughes is the founder of Small Films, a video agency that specialises in the independent school sector. A former BBC director, George has worked with leading schools like Eton, Marlborough, and Wellington, as well as major brands including Aldi and EDF.

Christiaan Harden brings nearly 20 years of experience in video strategy, having delivered campaigns for BMW, Barclays and over 60 UK universities. He’s helped schools and universities recruit students, widen participation, and showcase their stories with impact.

Why Attend?

This session will be packed with practical advice, examples from real campaigns, and expert insight to help you sharpen your strategy and get better results from your content.

👉 Click here to reserve your spot.

Please, I’m Begging You: How to Write a CV That Won’t Get You Ignored in TV, Film or Video Production

If you’re a junior looking to break into the TV, film or video production world, the first hurdle is your CV. And I hate to say it, but a lot of you are falling at that first fence.

We’ve recently been reviewing a huge stack of applications — and it’s clear that while the talent and enthusiasm are there, many people are letting themselves down with simple, fixable CV mistakes.

So, if you’re about to apply for a job in production, here’s a friendly guide to help you get it right — based on the things that are quietly making me lose what little hair I have left.

1. Keep it to 2 pages max

You’re just starting out — and that’s totally fine — but no one wants to read your life story. Be selective about what you include. Focus on relevant experience, clear structure, and make every line earn its place.

Pro tip: If you’re struggling to cut it down, ask: Does this help me get the job I want? If not, ditch it.

2. Spelling matters

It seems obvious, but you’d be amazed how many CVs have typos. It gives the impression you don’t care — and in production, attention to detail is everything.

Spell check. Read it out loud. Then ask someone else to read it too. One rogue apostrophe shouldn’t cost you an interview, but it might.

3. Make it easy to read

We’re not expecting design magic, but we do expect clarity. That means:

A clean, simple layout
Clear headings
Bullet points where helpful
Consistent fonts and spacing

Avoid over-designed CV templates. They’re distracting and hard to scan.

4. Include your A-levels and degree result

If you’ve done them, list them. Leaving them off just makes us wonder why. Even if you’re not proud of the results, transparency is better than silence.

5. Label your file properly

Please don’t send a file called CV.pdf or Resume.docx. It’ll get lost in a sea of other applicants.

Instead, try something like: Firstname-Lastname-RoleAppliedFor.pdf. It shows attention to detail and makes our lives easier.

6. Double-check your links

If you’re linking to a showreel, portfolio, LinkedIn, or anything else — make sure it actually works. Broken links = immediate frustration. Especially if your work is the thing we really want to see.

7. Add something personal

Even one or two lines about you as a person can make a huge difference. What do you enjoy outside of work? What motivates you? Any hobbies, interests, or side projects?

We want to hire people, not just CVs.

8. Let your personality come through

You don’t need to sound like a lawyer. Be professional, yes — but don’t flatten your voice completely. If you’re fun, thoughtful, curious, creative — let that come across in how you write.

9. Be clear about paid vs unpaid work

Lots of juniors gain experience through unpaid work at uni or short placements — which is brilliant. Just let us know what was paid and what wasn’t. It helps us understand the context.

Don’t undersell yourself either. Unpaid work is still valuable experience. Be proud of it.

10. Tell the story

A list of job titles isn’t enough. Tell us:

What did you actually do in the role?
What were you responsible for?
What did you achieve?
What did you learn?

Even for small roles, if you frame the experience well, it shows you’re already thinking like a pro.

The bottom line

You’ve got about 30 seconds to make someone care enough to keep reading. Your CV doesn’t need to be flashy or perfect — just clear, thoughtful, and you.

We’re always on the lookout for talented, enthusiastic people starting out in production. But we need to see the person behind the paper. So help us out — and give yourself the best shot.

What Does a Production Assistant Do?

If you’re just starting out in the world of video production, one of the most common entry points is as a Production Assistant—often shortened to PA. It’s a job that exists across commercial content, television, and film, but the day-to-day responsibilities can vary depending on the type of production you’re working on.

In this article, we’re focusing mainly on what it’s like to be a PA at a commercial video agency like Small Films—with a bit of insight into how the role compares in the wider industry.

To bring it to life, we’ve spoken to one of our own team members, Mia, who started with us as a PA and progressed to a Production Coordinator Position. Watch her talk about her experience below.

🎥 Meet Mia: Life as a Production Assistant at Small Films

“You get to touch all facets of production and work with all of the different teams… There’s such an ongoing opportunity to learn every day.”
— Mia, Production Assistant turned Production Assistant at Small Films

What’s the role of a Production Assistant in a commercial agency?

At a video agency like Small Films, the PA is an essential member of the team—especially on shoot days. The role is varied and hands-on, and no two days are the same. You’re there to support the production team, keep things running smoothly, and generally be ready for anything.

Setting up kit – helping to load, unload and set up cameras, lights, and other gear
Keeping things on schedule – making sure talent, crew and locations are prepped and ready to go
Looking after crew and clients – grabbing coffees, managing lunch orders, and keeping everyone comfortable
Supporting the director or producer – helping with clapperboard duties, monitoring shot lists, and taking notes
Problem-solving on the fly – from finding extra extension cables to tracking down a last-minute prop

The key skill here is being adaptable. Shoots can be unpredictable, and a great PA is someone who’s calm under pressure and quick on their feet.

What makes a good PA?

There’s no formal qualification required to become a Production Assistant, but there are a few qualities that will help you thrive in the role:

A can-do attitude
Good communication skills
Willingness to muck in and do what’s needed
Strong attention to detail
Professionalism on set (even if you’re just getting started)

One of the best things about being a PA—particularly in a commercial video agency like Small Films—is the chance to try your hand at loads of different aspects of production. Beyond supporting shoots, you might get involved in:

Research and creative development
Helping with client pitches
Pre-production planning and paperwork
Booking travel, kit hire, and shoot logistics
Sourcing props and supporting set design
Sitting in on edits or helping out in post-production

It’s a brilliant way to get a feel for how everything fits together and figure out which areas you’re most drawn to—whether that’s producing, directing, creative strategy, or post.

How does the PA role differ in TV and film?

In the television and film industries, the PA role tends to be more hierarchical and specialised.

In TV production, especially on bigger shows, you’ll often find PAs divided into roles like runners, office PAs, or location assistants, each with set tasks like handling call sheets, managing transport, or keeping talent on schedule.

In film, particularly on larger productions, there are often entire teams of PAs: set PAs, lockup PAs, production office PAs, and more. You might have a narrower focus but work on longer shoots with larger crews.

In contrast, PAs in commercial video—especially in smaller, fast-moving agencies like ours—tend to wear more hats. You’ll often be exposed to every stage of the process and work closely with the creative and production teams, getting real insight into how content comes together.

Why become a PA?

If you’re keen to work in video, it’s one of the best ways to get your foot in the door. You’ll:

Learn how a professional production runs
Get hands-on with shoots
Work across creative, logistical, and post-production tasks
Meet people in the industry
Discover what kind of role suits you best

And if you’re lucky, you’ll work with a team like Small Films—where we back curiosity, initiative, and people who want to keep learning.

Want to learn more?

🎬 What does a Creative Producer do?
📈 How to Plan a Successful Video Marketing Campaign
💡 7 Signs You’re Working With a Great Video Production Company
📚 Video Production Services
🛠️ Our Portfolio

Final thoughts

Being a Production Assistant can be fast-paced, unpredictable, and sometimes physically demanding—but it’s also hugely rewarding. Whether you’re aiming for a career in commercial content, television, or film, it’s a great first step that gives you a real understanding of how video production works.

Want to work with us or find out more about what we do? Fill out the form on our contact page and start the conversation.