From Open Night to Oversubscribed

A campaign that turned record interest into unprecedented first-choice applications.

THE HEADSCRATCHER

Post-COVID disruption and the introduction of the new SEAG test in Northern Ireland made it harder than ever for schools to attract confident applications. Methodist College Belfast needed more first-choice applications, higher Open Night attendance, and renewed awareness to stay competitive.

The campaign drew over 2,100 families to Open Nights, more than doubling attendance

Applications surged, making Methodist College the most oversubscribed school in Northern Ireland

A bold creative refresh turned emotional storytelling into measurable enrolment success

We rejected cliché stock photos of “happy kids.” Instead, we focused on the real, life-changing impact a Methodist education can deliver by telling stories of growth, opportunity, and transformation.

We translated that into creative assets for above-line media, Open Night events, VIP passes, a polished prospectus, branded lighting installations, and inspirational wall quotes, all reflecting the emotional journey students and families experience.

We drew over 2,100 families to Open Nights, a 200% increase on previous years. Methodist College became the most oversubscribed school in Northern Ireland, with 466 first-choice applications for just 240 spots.

These outcomes were proof that repositioning a school brand can deliver real, life-changing results.