Discovery & Technical Audit
Hatched began with a comprehensive pre-migration audit and planning phase to fully understand the existing website infrastructure and usage. This included:
- Mapping all current URLs to preserve internal links and SEO equity
- Identifying key user journeys and dependencies
- Reviewing third-party integrations and forms
- Auditing CMS structure and content hierarchy
A parallel staging environment was created, allowing all development and testing to take place without impacting the live website.
Website Migration & Hosting Upgrade
Using a carefully controlled, staged deployment process, Hatched migrated the website to a high-performance, secure hosting environment. This included:
- Real-time data syncing and a managed DNS switchover strategy
- CMS upgrades and structural improvements behind the scenes
- Performance optimisation, including improved caching and image handling
Crucially, all migration work was completed with zero downtime, ensuring no disruption to staff workflows, parent access, or enrolment enquiries.
Testing, SEO Preservation & Quality Assurance
Once the site was live on the new hosting environment, rigorous testing was carried out to ensure reliability and performance:
- Broken link and 404 error checks
- Page speed and performance testing
- Form submissions and integration validation
- Mobile responsiveness and cross-browser compatibility
Key SEO elements — including metadata, URL structures, and sitemap indexing — were fully preserved to maintain and protect search engine performance.
Digital Refresh & Enhancements
With a robust technical foundation in place, Hatched delivered a series of front-end improvements timed for the start of the new school term:
- A refreshed homepage focused on storytelling, clarity, and visual impact
- A new navigation structure separating Prep and Senior School content to improve usability
- New co-curricular content sections highlighting music, drama, sport, and enrichment
- A community Business Directory supporting alumni- and parent-run enterprises