How to Create a School or University Prospectus: Top Design and Printing Tips

A good prospectus isn’t just a booklet.

It’s a handshake, a welcome mat, and a promise all rolled into one. Whether it’s for a school, college, or university, your prospectus gives people a feel for what it’s like to be part of your community. And if it looks and feels professional, it builds trust straight away.

Here’s how to get it right — from what to include to how to make it shine.

What Should a Prospectus Include?

1. A Warm Welcome

Start with a friendly introduction from the headteacher or principal. Keep it personal. Let the reader feel your enthusiasm and pride in what you offer.

Write it as if you’re addressing one person even though it will be read by many.

Key is to make the person you’re talking to feel like the most important person in the world.

2. Overview of the School or University

Who are you? What are your values? Why do families or students choose you? This is your chance to share what makes your place different.

3. Facilities and Student Life

Photos help a lot here. Show off the grounds, classrooms, labs, libraries, or canteens. Highlight what daily life is like for your students. But make sure they are professional and high-res. Pull-downs from social media are a no-no. So are library shots, so avoid using them whenever you can.

4. Activities, Clubs and Support

Whether it’s football, drama, or debate — let people see what’s on offer outside lessons. Include pastoral care and wellbeing support, too.

5. Courses and Learning Approach

Give a simple overview of subjects or programmes. Don’t forget to explain how you help students learn — your teaching style, support systems, and any extras like trips or guest speakers.

6. Admissions Process

Make it easy. Include deadlines, who to contact, and a simple breakdown of how to apply.

7. Success Stories and Testimonials

This is gold. A few words from happy students, parents or alumni can make a big difference. Add some quick stats, like exam results or university destinations.

Design Tips That Make a Difference

Use Strong, Real Imagery

Ditch the stock photos. Use real images of real students. Smiles, activities, and teamwork — all help tell your story.

Stick to Your Brand

Use your school colours and fonts. Be consistent with branding, including with logos and tone. This helps build a clear identity and keeps everything feeling professional.

Keep Layouts Clear

No clutter. Use headings, short sections, and simple language. Break up text with photos, quotes or quick facts.

Use Infographics and Visual Aids

Timelines, charts, maps, icons — these can explain things quicker than paragraphs of text.

Think About Accessibility

Avoid tiny text. Use good contrast. Pick fonts that are easy to read. Make sure your design works for everyone.

Print Tips for a Polished Result

Pick the Right Paper

Heavier paper (like 170gsm or more) feels better to the touch, and gives your content weight — literally. Laminated covers protect and add a smart finish.

Choose the Best Size and Format

A4 is standard, but A5 works well for younger audiences. You could even go square for something a bit different.

Get the Binding Right

Stapled is great for short runs. Perfect bound (like a book) gives a premium feel for documents with lots oif pages.

Think Eco-Friendly

Recycled paper and vegetable-based inks are a great look — not just for the planet but for your image, too.

Distribution Strategy: Make It Count

Don’t let your prospectus gather dust. Have copies ready for:

• Open days and parents’ evenings
• Local primary schools or sixth form fairs
• Mailouts on request
• Downloadable versions on your website
• Handouts at community events or local businesses

Digital Version: Handy and Shareable

A flipbook PDF or downloadable version means people can view it on phones or tablets. It also means you can include clickable links — for videos, application forms or virtual tours.

Just make sure the design still works on screen.

Telling Your Story Visually

Every school or university has its own feel. Use your photos, colour palette and layout to match the energy of your place. Calm and traditional? Go for elegant, serif fonts and neat structure. Creative and lively? Use bold imagery and fun layouts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using too much text — keep it light.
• Forgetting to update old info.
• Overloading the design with colours or fonts.
• Skipping proofreading — typos can undo all your hard work.

Final Thoughts

Your prospectus should leave readers feeling like they already belong. It’s a chance to show off what’s brilliant about your school or university — and to do it with style and confidence.

If you want help bringing yours to life, we’d love to get involved. We know what works — and we make sure every prospectus we print feels as good as it looks. At Fineline Print & Web we provide a whole range of education printing services.

Need a hand with design or print? We’re always up for a chat.

 

If you’d like to find out more, please get in touch here.