What does a school app need for an A+ grade? 

Technology has changed almost every industry you can think of and education is no exception. While the change is apparent in the classroom with new tools such as touch screen TVs for interactive learning and augmented reality experiences becoming increasingly commonplace.

The development of smartphone technology also means the way schools communicate with students and parents has also changed – and an app is a great way for establishments to embrace this opportunity. With more and more schools investing in app design, let’s take a look at the features which assure a+ reviews from users.

1. Class and activity timetables

Getting hundreds of pupils to the right class on time can be a challenge but integrating class and activity timetables into the app means that even new students know exactly where they should be, when.

Timetables for extra-curricular activities are also a great idea and a perfect way of getting pupils more involved in things such as drama club, school sports teams and special events such as volunteering and fundraising campaigns.

2. Lunch menus

School food services form an important part of day-to-day operations. With nutrition such as vital part of the educational process and increased media attention on what schools serve kids thanks to campaigns by TV chef, Jamie Oliver, why not showcase the quality of your food service by making it a feature of your school’s mobile app ? This part of the app can also be used to provide menus to pupils and parents – great if you have specific dietary needs to cater to, as most schools do.

3. Uniform shop

With most schools requiring their students to wear a school uniform, integrating a store into your app is not only convenient, it can also generate revenue for your school too. Giving parents the ability to easily order jumpers, blazers and other items of uniform via the app makes life easier for everyone. If your school sells other items, such as books, sports equipment or revision guides, they can also be integrated here.

4. Essential forms

Your school will undoubtedly have a store of forms that it requires parents and pupils to fill in from time-to-time. Things like permission slips, holiday forms and absentee forms can live in the app, making it easy for parents to provide relevant information and reduce the number of unauthorised absences recorded. Having everything accessible via your app is also more efficient and convenient than relying purely on paper-based forms.