The removal of Google reviews – What this means for your school

In a move that will impact schools across the UK and Ireland, Google has announced the removal of all reviews from school listings on Google Maps (Google Reviews). This follows a long period of review suspensions dating back to 2019 and has been welcomed by many in the education sector who have long called for the removal of outdated and often misleading feedback.

At Ambleglow, we have advised many schools about the challenges they face in managing their online reputation, particularly when dealing with unverified reviews that do not accurately reflect the true school experience. We understand the importance of schools being able to showcase their strengths and successes in an authentic way, and this change presents an opportunity to rethink how schools can highlight their positive impact.

While this change protects schools from unfair or unverified reviews, it also means they lose a key platform for gathering positive testimonials from parents, students, and the wider community. So, what can schools do to maintain and improve their local footprint in a post-Google Review landscape?

Optimise your website for local search

With Google reviews gone, your school’s website now plays an even more critical role in ensuring your institution remains visible in local search results. Make sure your website is fully optimised for local SEO by:

• Ensuring your school’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistently displayed across your site and in online directories.
• Using relevant local keywords, such as “outstanding primary school in [your town],” throughout your website’s content.
• Creating location-specific pages or blog content that highlights your involvement in the local community.

Want to understand more about how your SEO stacks up? Take advantage of our free SEO health check for schools. Click here to find out more.

Strengthen your social media presence

Social media is a powerful tool for shaping perceptions and engaging with your community. Regularly posting updates, school news, achievements and student success stories can reinforce a positive image of your school. Encourage parents and alumni to share their experiences on platforms like Facebook, X (formally Twitter), and Instagram.

Additionally, Facebook still allows reviews, so directing positive feedback there can be a way to maintain visible, external validation of your school’s strengths.

Encourage testimonials and case studies

Although Google reviews are gone, schools can still gather and showcase testimonials in other ways. Video is still a powerful medium, so make gathering this type of testimonials easy by utilising a platform like Video Ask

• Include parent and student testimonials on your website, particularly on key pages such as admissions and about us sections.
• Collect feedback via surveys and display positive responses in prospectuses and marketing materials.
• Develop case studies that highlight success stories, whether it’s a student’s journey through the school or an impactful community project.

Claim and optimise your school’s online listings

While Google reviews are disappearing, your Google Business Profile remains a crucial tool for visibility. Keep it updated with:

• Accurate contact details and opening hours.
• Recent photos of your facilities, events, and school environment.
• Regular posts with updates, events, and key announcements.

Beyond Google, ensure your school is listed in reputable directories such as local council education sites, school comparison websites, and independent school directories.

Engage with your local community

A strong local presence extends beyond online visibility. Schools that actively participate in their community build a positive reputation that naturally spreads through word of mouth. Consider:

• Hosting local events and inviting prospective parents to visit.
• Partnering with local businesses or charities for community projects.
• Encouraging alumni to share their experiences and success stories.

In conclusion

While the removal of Google school reviews may feel like a loss, it also presents an opportunity for schools to take greater control over their online reputation. By leveraging alternative platforms, strengthening website SEO, and engaging actively on social media, schools can continue to build trust and visibility among prospective parents and the wider community.

If your school needs support in adapting its marketing strategy to these changes, book a discovery call with our team today to discuss how we can help.