Crafting the Perfect School Prospectus

Creating a standout prospectus is essential for any educational institution. It reflects your values and sets the tone for prospective students and parents. In this guide, I’ll share insights on paper types, finishes, and binding options to help you design a prospectus that truly represents your school.

Understanding Paper Weight (GSM) & Texture

Inner Pages (Main Content)

Choosing the right paper weight for your inner pages is crucial. I recommend using 130–170 gsm. This range provides durability without making the booklet bulky. It’s commonly used for high-quality posters and mid-tier brochures. For premium prospectuses, I suggest opting for 170 gsm.

Cover (Front/Back)

The cover is the first thing people see. It should make a lasting impression. Consider using 170–200 gsm for a substantial feel while still being foldable. If you want to elevate the tactile experience, go for 200–250 gsm. This thickness gives a card-like sturdiness, which is excellent for a premium first impression. For a more corporate feel, you might even consider 300 gsm.

Corporate Standard

Typically, high-quality brochures and prospectuses use paper between 170–300 gsm. My recommendation is to use 150–170 gsm for interior pages and 200–250 gsm for the outer cover. This combination ensures a polished, professional feel.

Coating & Finish

The finish of your prospectus can greatly affect its overall look and feel.

Coated Paper

Using coated paper (silk/matt/gloss) delivers sharp, vibrant visuals. This is ideal for showcasing photos, school life, and branding.

• Matte (Silk) Finish: This finish is sophisticated and reduces glare, making it excellent for readability.

• Gloss Finish: Bright and eye-catching, but more reflective. It’s great for photos and cover images but may be less easy to write on.

• Uncoated Paper: This option is natural and textured, best for conveying warmth or eco-conscious branding. However, colours may appear softer.

  
  

Tip: A silk coat offers a balanced, professional finish that is both aesthetic and practical.

Binding & Practical Considerations

When it comes to binding, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind:

• Thicker cover stock (especially over 200 gsm) may require a crease rather than simple folding to avoid cracking or “spring-back.”

• If you plan to mail the prospectus, consider the weight. Heavier stock increases postage costs.

  
  

Quick Summary Table

Section	Paper Weight	Recommended Finish
Inner pages	130–170 gsm	Silk (matte), gloss, or uncoated
Cover pages	200–300 gsm	Silk for elegance; laminated if durability needed

Final Recommendations

To ensure your prospectus stands out, here are my final recommendations:

• Inner Pages: Use 150–170 gsm, silk-coated for clarity with subdued reflection.

• Covers: Opt for 200–300 gsm, with a silk laminate or subtle gloss for extra resilience.

• Finish: Preferably silk-coated unless your branding calls for the brightness of gloss or the texture of an uncoated finish.

• Extra Touches: Consider full lamination or Spot UV for high-impact areas or brand accents.

• Pantone Colour: This offers an exact colour match to your publication branding but is more expensive than digital CMYK.

  
  

By following these guidelines, you can create a prospectus that not only looks great but also effectively communicates your school's values and offerings. Remember, your prospectus is often the first impression potential students and parents will have of your institution. Make it count!