Our preliminary findings are here.
The full report launches from 9 November with a Foreword from Oliver Smith, Chief Executive of AMCIS, followed by a live AMCIS webinar on 30 November to explore what it means for schools and professionals.
How are admissions, marketing and communications roles in independent schools structured, rewarded and valued in 2026?
That’s the question behind our Benchmark Survey, launched at the AMCIS Conference in May. On 30th November at 2pm, we’ll join AMCIS for a live webinar to discuss the findings and take your questions.
Preliminary Insights Infographic: Download here
Ahead of that, our preliminary findings infographic offers a first look at the results. A number of the findings stood out, with these three capturing attention:
68% of respondents hold budget responsibility, but only 26% sit on SLT
Among those who feel valued, 77% cite recognition as a reason, compared with 28% who cite salary
Nearly 2 in 3 say they are, or may be, likely to change roles in the next 12 months
The results point to a committed, purpose-driven profession, and they raise important questions about representation, progression and reward.
The full report: from the 9th November
The full report explores what lies behind these figures. It covers whether a seat on SLT makes a difference, where progression stalls, how reward compares by role and seniority, and which benefits people actually value. It also includes a look ahead at AI, drawing on the CIM AI Conference 2026. The report is written for professionals benchmarking their own role and for school leaders thinking about how to attract and keep talent.
Register for your report copy here.
With a Foreword by Oliver Smith, AMCIS, CEO.
Webinar with AMCIS: 30th November
The report sets out the data. The webinar is where we explore what it means in practice. Join the CEO of AMCIS, Oliver Smith, an AMCIS board member and Marketing Adviser’s own Nick Richardson and Mel Pye at 2pm on 30th November for a 60-minute session covering:
The key findings, and the stories behind the numbers
What they mean for professionals benchmarking their own role and planning their next step
What Heads, Bursars, HR teams and governors might take from them on structure, reward and retention
Whether you work in admissions, marketing, communications or development, or lead the teams that do, this is a chance to hear how your experience compares and to add your voice to the conversation.
Contact us if you have any questions around this sector survey research and to be involved in next years Benchmark.