Kent School Closures

The KM Group, have for several years, provided a service to the people and schools of Kent in the form of their School Closure system. Rogue Interactive we’re asked to further develop the concept with a potential return on investment through both localised sponsorship opportunities and premium rate messaging through SMS technology.

We develop a standalone system that can be either a website in its own right, or plug-in to the KM Group’s KentOnline website or their group of KMFM websites. The system uses the latest in Javascript / ajax technology to provide instant searching, live Googlemap updates and an account management system for both parents and schools.

For Parents

Parents can register for updates for any of their chosen schools by registering with Kent School Closures. They have the choice of a FREE email update which is broadcast every time one of their chosen schools updates their status, or they can opt for one of two SMS/Text message services. The first is a pre-payment service for parents to purchase credit upfront via our Secure Trading payment gateway. The second is a reverse bill system, where parents are charged a fee to their mobile phone when a SMS message is received. Both services are integrated into the PIRI messaging platform.

For Schools

Schools, once registered for the free service, can update their status by logging into the system. They have the option of OPEN or CLOSED with a message that will be sent via email, SMS or both to registered parents. They can also add staff members so that chosen teachers can update the school status. The mobile phone number of the school administrator and registered teachers is also stored to allow them to update their school status via a simple text message and not require an internet connection or PC.

For the DJ’s

We have also developed an application (Mac OSX and Windows PC) for kmfm’s DJ’s which sits on their desktops while they are on-air. The application chronologically collects a feed for their region/station and displays the school updates as they come in, rather than waiting for teachers to phone in or send them emails to notify them.

View the School Closure System at: http://www.kentschoolclosures.co.uk