Retreat vs Treat: Why School Marketers Deserve Both

In the challenging world of school marketing, where time is often a scarce commodity, the idea of stepping away for a couple of days to craft a marketing plan might seem like a luxury.

But is writing a marketing plan really a luxury?

Is learning from industry experts really a nice-to-have?

Is stepping out of the office for a couple of days to do some heavy, meaningful work really that indulgent?

These events aren’t just about escaping the office for a couple of days to decompress in beautiful resorts (although I would argue that given how hard every school marketer I know works, they deserve it).

Rather, these retreats are about providing a supportive environment where school marketers can fully immerse themselves in the task at hand, away from the constant distractions and interruptions of the busy school environment.

The 2024 Strategic School Marketing Retreat in Noosa.

So, what’s the difference between a treat and a retreat?

Well, while a treat offers temporary respite or indulgence, whereas a retreat provides long-term outcomes including clarity, a strong strategic direction, and powerful professional growth.

It's about investing in your school’s marketing team and, by extension, in your school’s future success.

The retreat format provides the time and space necessary for introspection and planning – "luxuries" often overlooked in the fast-paced world of education.

(Again, how have we reached a place where we think reflecting, evaluating, and planning are luxuries?)

The 2024 Strategic School Marketing Retreat in Werribee.

So, if you’re considering whether the Strategic School Marketing Retreat is a worthy PD opportunity, remember that it's not just about the allure of beautiful locations or the promise of escape.

It's about recognising the invaluable role school marketers play and empowering them with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

After all, in the journey towards educational excellence, every marketer deserves both a treat and a retreat.

Doors open for the 2025 Strategic School Marketing Retreat on 1 May, but given you've made it all the way to the end of this article, I have a special treat for you: advance access to the booking page!