INSIGHTS

Every school in England with a website has a legal obligation to publish certain information — and failing to do so can result in criticism from Ofsted, intervention from the DfE, and a loss of trust from parents and carers. The problem is that the requirements are spread across multiple pieces of DfE guidance, updated periodically, and easy to lose track of — especially when there are a hundred other things on your plate. This post brings it all together in one place. Whethe

One of the first questions I’m asked is: “How much does a website actually cost?” The honest answer is: it depends — but not in a vague, frustrating way. The price usually comes down to what you need the site to do. Typical website price ranges in the UK Here’s a realistic breakdown for small businesses: £500 – £1,000 One-page or very small brochure site Template-based Minimal customisation Best for startups or short-term needs £1,200 – £2,500 Custom-designed site 5–10 pages

Choosing a website platform can feel overwhelming — especially when everyone has a strong opinion. The truth is: there’s no “best” platform, only the right one for your business. Here’s how I usually explain it to clients. Wix – simple and quick Good for: Small businesses DIY updates Straightforward sites Things to consider: Less design flexibility Can feel restrictive as your business grows Webflow – clean, modern, powerful Good for: Businesses that care about design Perform

If you’re thinking about a new website, it’s completely normal to wonder what the process will actually be like. Here’s how I work — no jargon, no surprises. 1. A proper conversation first Before any design work starts, we talk. I want to understand: What you do Who your customers are What you want your website to achieve No pressure, no sales script. 2. Clear direction and structure I’ll recommend: The right platform A sensible page structure What content really matters This

It’s easy to see a website as just another expense — but a good one should earn its keep. What a professional website actually does A well-designed site should: Explain what you do clearly Build trust quickly Encourage people to get in touch If it’s not doing that, it’s just an online leaflet. The hidden cost of cheap websites Cheap sites often lead to: Poor user experience Confusing layouts Low enquiry rates Needing a rebuild sooner than expected That’s where the real cost s

Short answer: yes — but not everything. SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive to be effective. What matters at the start When launching a new website, the basics go a long way: Clean page structure Fast load times Mobile-friendly design Clear headings Proper page titles and descriptions This gives your site a strong foundation. What can wait You don’t need: Dozens of blog posts Advanced backlink strategies Monthly SEO retainers Those can come later if and when they

Another common question — and a fair one. Typical timelines For most small business websites: Discovery & planning: 1 week Design & build: 2–3 weeks Feedback & refinement: 1 week Total: around 4–5 weeks What can affect the timeline Projects can move faster or slower depending on: How quickly content is supplied Number of revisions Project complexity Clear communication keeps things moving. Can it be faster? Yes — if: Content is ready Decisions are made promptly Scope is clear