Virtual open days have transformed how schools and colleges connect with prospective students and their families. Instead of travelling to campus, attendees can explore everything a school offers from the comfort of their homes. With interactive tours, live Q&A sessions, and pre-recorded content, these events make learning about a school’s facilities, ethos, and community easier than ever.
Since the pandemic, virtual open days have become increasingly popular. Schools, universities, and colleges now recognize the value of reaching wider audiences while offering flexibility to busy families. They’ve moved from a temporary solution to a preferred option for many.
In this article, we’ll explore five key benefits of online open days and why they’ve become essential for schools looking to engage with prospective students in today’s digital world.
1. Increased Accessibility
Online open days break down location barriers, allowing families to explore schools without travelling. Whether in another part of the country or overseas, parents and students can attend from anywhere with an internet connection. This opens up opportunities for schools to showcase their facilities and values to a much wider audience, helping them reach prospective students they might not otherwise engage with.
These events are also ideal for working parents with packed schedules. Traditional open days often require taking time off work, which isn’t always practical. Virtual sessions, on the other hand, are designed to fit around busy lives. Many schools offer recordings of presentations and campus tours, allowing parents to watch at a time that suits them. This flexibility ensures no one has to miss out on learning about what a school offers.
2. Cost-Effectiveness
Virtual open days are a budget-friendly option for schools. Hosting a virtual event means fewer costs for physical resources, such as printed materials, refreshments, or venue preparations. Schools can also reduce expenses for staff and logistics, like setting up equipment or managing crowds, making it a more efficient use of funds.
Families also benefit from significant savings. Attending an open day in person often involves travel costs, and accommodation might be needed for those coming from further afield. With online events, these expenses are eliminated, making it easier for more families to explore their options without financial strain.
3. Improved Convenience and Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of online open days is accessing on-demand content. Many schools record their presentations and virtual tours, allowing families to revisit them anytime. This is especially helpful for parents and students who want to rewatch key information or share it with other family members who couldn’t attend live.
Virtual events also allow users to create a schedule that works for them. Instead of sticking to a rigid programme, attendees can choose which sessions to join based on their interests. Whether watching a live Q&A with teachers or exploring specific subjects, virtual open days offer the flexibility to focus on what matters most.
4. Wider Reach & Higher Engagement
Online open days give schools the chance to reach a global audience. Students and families from different regions or countries can participate without travelling. This makes it easier for schools to connect with international applicants, broadening their reach and showcasing what they offer on a much larger scale.
These events also encourage higher engagement through interactive features. Live Q&A sessions allow attendees to ask questions in real-time, while virtual tours provide an immersive experience of the campus. Chat functions and polls can further involve participants, making them feel part of the event. This interactive element keeps the audience engaged and ensures they leave with all the necessary information.
5. Eco-Friendly Alternative
Online open days are a greener choice, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of school events. With no need for families to travel, car, train, or flight emissions are eliminated. Additionally, schools can cut down on paper usage by providing digital brochures and presentations, making these events more environmentally friendly.
This eco-conscious approach also supports the sustainability goals many schools strive to achieve. Hosting virtual events means schools demonstrate their commitment to reducing environmental impact, which resonates with eco-minded students and parents. It’s a small but meaningful step towards a more sustainable future.
5 Benefits of Virtual Open Days
Virtual open days offer a range of benefits, from increased accessibility and cost savings to greater convenience and engagement. They allow schools to reach a wider audience, reduce environmental impact, and allow families to explore options on their terms.
For schools, embracing virtual open days can be a powerful addition to their marketing strategy. They’re a practical solution and a forward-thinking way to connect with prospective students and parents. Offering these events means schools can showcase their strengths while meeting the needs of modern families.
If you’re considering planning a virtual open day for your organization, contact us to discuss how our virtual event platform can help.