The Manchester-based company now provide websites and apps for over 350 schools in the UK. Originally set up as a website provider with a combined Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), they have been focusing on parent communication in the last twelve months.
"We spoke to a lot of our existing schools about what they would like us to develop,” said director Alex Ellis. “The main message coming back was an app to communicate with parents. The app we developed allows schools to message their parents directly free-of-charge, in the same way WhatsApp works."
As well as offering the ability to message groups of parents, the app allows schools to send virtual permission slips and questionnaires home. They have also created an online Parents Evening slot booker, which allows parents to book their time slot via the app or on the website.
Carl Jones at Cherry Grove Primary in Cheshire said: "We have just used the Parents Evening function for the first time. We have had two such evenings this week, and both have been 100% easier to organise for the staff."
The popularity of the parents' area mirrors the success of the student VLE, which provides pupils with a range of functions, including blogging with other schools and picking up their homework online.
Please visit www.schoolspider.co.uk or email [email protected] for a no obligation 30 minute demo.
