What we did
Maintaining a large school requires a well-coordinated operation and a strong relationship between the school and Fidelis. Fortunately, that’s exactly what has developed.
Paul Baker, Head of Operations and Facilities at Cleeve School, firmly credits this relationship as the reason why the contract is going so well. Responsiveness and communication are key, but so is initiative. Site Manager, Ewelina, is the trusted ‘driving force’ with high standards and Contract Manager, Charlie, is great at “getting things done and sorted”. Paul adds that the collaborative approach is very effective: “it’s working in partnership”.
Students inevitably create mess, but by the next morning, the school is spotless. “It sets the standard for the rest of the day,” says Paul, “the cleaning team are doing a really good job making sure it’s the best it can be; they have respect and pride in their work”.
Open days are a clear example of when the entire school premises must shine, in preparation for thousands of visitors. “That’s when Fidelis comes into their own; actually they work so hard all the time, they just go up that extra level and make sure everything is as spick and span as it can be.”
When going unnoticed is the best outcome
One thing that Paul has noticed since the Fidelis contract began is the lack of complaints. Previously, he would receive dozens of emails a day about cleaning issues – he now can’t recall the last time such a missive was sent. “You always know when cleaning is rubbish; you never know when the cleaning is good, because no one praises things, they only complain.” The service has improved to such a degree that it is no longer a concern: “That’s how good it is now,” says Paul, “no one worries about it.”
As mentioned above, the contract has been renewed for a fourth year and Paul is especially pleased that the service is ever improving. Meanwhile, Fidelis’ operatives continue to receive regular safeguarding training and attend workshops. Ultimately, the team – with Ewelina and Charlie at the helm – understand and know what needs to be done to keep the school immaculate, promoting the well-being of staff and pupils.
Fidelis has worked with schools, colleges and universities for many years, helping maintain hygiene and safety standards. If you’re searching for a new cleaning partner or would like to discuss your own challenges, please contact Business Development Manager, Daniel Gibson on 07350 364140 for a chat.
“I’ve been in schools for 20 years and it’s the best cleaning contract I’ve had. No hassle, no people complaining, nothing. Primarily down to Ewelina, the site manager, she’s brilliant, she knows what she’s doing, she has a higher standard than me and she knows what she wants. It has gone really, really, well.”
Paul Baker, Head of Operations and Facilities