Dr Willem Steyn, Interim Head
I first became aware of RSAcademics as a candidate when I applied for a role some years ago. That experience stayed with me because everyone I encountered was warm, supportive and highly professional. So, when we needed support to recruit a new Head of Marketing, I knew exactly who to turn to.
Initially, I hoped to have someone in post by the Autumn Term. However, after speaking with your Head of Commercial Appointments and your Senior Consultant, it quickly became clear that prioritising speed might compromise the quality of the appointment.
To maintain momentum for the school’s pupil recruitment cycle and to ensure the groundwork was properly laid for the new Head of Marketing, an RSAcademics Consultant joined us on an interim basis to provide support while the recruitment process got underway. I wanted the new Head of Marketing to have a solid foundation to build on, so we also commissioned RSAcademics to carry out non-joiner research, a parent survey, and to complete a demographics and competitor review.
Your Consultant has been absolutely brilliant. They introduced small but incredibly effective tweaks to our marketing, which have all made a tangible difference. They were able to highlight activities we were already doing and how they could be strengthened. Having this external perspective was invaluable.
What impressed me the most was how far they went to understand and support the school. For example, they attended our Open Evenings so they could see how everything worked in practice. Their commitment, insight and support have been outstanding.
Our new Head of Marketing has now joined the team, and the RSAcademics Consultant has been involved in the handover to ensure a smooth transition.
The non‑joiner research and parent survey have already given us a clearer picture of how families view the school. The survey results have reinforced that we are doing many of the right things and have highlighted people and processes that are real strengths for us. We are now waiting for the final demographics and competitor review, which will complete the strategic picture for our new marketing lead.
To anyone considering working with RSAcademics, I would say: just do it. From my very first contact with the team as a job applicant to every interaction I’ve had since, the experience has been consistently positive. The team is warm, supportive and highly professional.
I am genuinely grateful for the focus, clarity and exceptional service RSAcademics has provided. They have helped us move forward with confidence, and I would highly recommend them to any school looking for expert support.