Mobilisation Series Part 1: Hackney Schools Framework
In summer 2021, CleanTEC faced a race against the clock when the previous contractor delayed releasing crucial TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment) information until the end of June. With just 2-3 weeks to mobilise 18 schools before the academic year ended, our team had to collaborate swiftly and efficiently to address the challenge.
Navigating Last-Minute Changes
During the tender process, the TUPE documents indicated that both an Area Manager and Support Manager would transfer to CleanTEC. However, the Support Manager opted out, and the Area Manager, who had led us to believe he was joining, backed out the night before the transition. Left without management on day one, CleanTEC moved swiftly, brining in William Benson as the new Area Manager in early August.
Since then, William’s leadership has been transformative. His dedication and hard work have helped CleanTEC grow the contract from 18 to 24 schools within the Hackney Schools Framework, driven by glowing recommendations from satisfied clients.
Overcoming Staffing Hurdles & Building a Strong Team
The mobilisation process wasn’t without its challenges. Our management discovered that the TUPE information was incomplete, leading to staff shortages and inaccurate working schedules. There was also Union involvement due to issues the staff had faced with their previous employer, including incorrect pay and unpaid holidays. CleanTEC worked closely with the Union to address these concerns and restore trust with the staff.
Facing low morale, our team immediately launched a recruitment drive, filling all vacancies before school reopened in September 2021. Under William’s leadership, the team underwent a transformation, becoming a hardworking and motivated group of Cleaning Operatives across all sites.
Raising Standards & Continuing to Grow
Before CleanTEC took over, clients frequently complained about poor deep cleaning, with some schools not ready in time for the new term. William and his mobile supervisor quickly built a dedicated deep cleaning team, ensuring all schools were ready for the September reopening. This high standard has been maintained ever since.
Despite the early setbacks, our team has not only managed to stabilise the contract, but has also expanded by six additional sites. Monthly audits now average 95% across all locations, and quarterly performance reviews with the Hackney Schools Framework team consistently show CleanTEC meeting or exceeding targets.
From overcoming staff shortages to raising cleaning standards, CleanTEC is proud of the strong relationships built with both staff and clients, and we look forward to continuing our success across Hackney schools.
