Launching our operations at Cardiff and Vale College wasn’t a simple process of ticking boxes. Right from the start, our emphasis was on understanding the unique requirements of the site and key to this was assembling a team with a mix of experience and enthusiasm. 

“The college is based across several campuses and each location has its own unique demands, but when we took over the contract, we were confident that with our renowned flexible approach, we could tackle each campus's bespoke needs head-on” explains Viktoriia Griscenko, Account Manager (Education) at AQS.

The mobilisation project was a combined effort where everyone played a crucial role. From senior colleagues with years of experience under their belts to members of the newly hired cleaning team, every team member contributed with enthusiasm and dedication.

Viktoriia agrees: "More than the activities that were to be undertaken on site, it was the spirit of togetherness that made the difference. Alongside me, the AQS team made up of Anna Psztyk, (Education Operations Manager), Maja Abramek, (Operations Support Manager) together with Robin Kinrade (Director) met numerous times before the start of the contract to prepare the mobilisation plan. 

“Our ethos is about collective growth and shared success. At Cardiff and Vale, we turned challenges into learning experiences, ensuring we not only met but frequently exceeded expectations. A contract of this size would typically be mobilised over a three-month period – but we got things up and running in under one month, a fantastic testament to our hardworking team.”

Building the Dream Team

The size of the operation means that as well as utilising the existing team, TUPEd over to join AQS, Viktoriia needed to recruit a bank of new cleaning staff on site.

Viktoriia continues “When we looked at the staffing requirements, we weren't just in search of competent hands; we looked for individuals who had an evident passion for cleaning work. A team that wouldn't just clock in and clock out but would take pride in their work.”

“We held several rounds of interviews, and while technical know-how was on our checklist, we closely observed the enthusiasm candidates displayed. You can teach how to properly handle chemicals and machinery, but you can't teach passion - that's what we value most in applicants – in fact it is one of our company values."

It has been this unique blend of skill and energy that's made the Cardiff and Vale contract a success.

“A passionate worker not only does the task at hand but constantly thinks of ways to do it better. They take feedback positively and are always eager to learn and develop. At this college, we wanted a team that viewed cleaning not just as a task but an enjoyable occupation, a way to contribute to the vibrant academic environment.”

Boots on the Ground

"When we say cleaning, it’s not just about pushing a mop or wiping down a table. Every single space, from bustling classrooms to frequently visited loos, needs to be at its best. And given the sheer number of students, every day brings its own set of challenges.”

But it's not just the volume of students that keeps us on our toes; it’s the pace and variety of college life. Lectures, group projects, impromptu study sessions, evening events, and everything in between.

Equipped with advanced cleaning tools and methods, our teams have mastered the art of being efficient and bespoke. This achievement isn’t just down to the equipment but also the training and ethos we instil.

Whether it’s the peak of exam season or a quieter summer afternoon, we’ve worked out an ever-adaptive schedule. The goal? Offering a pristine environment that boosts learning and ensures everyone's comfort, all while moving seamlessly in the background.

Flexibility at its Finest

At AQS, we pride ourselves on our ability to mobilise quickly to accommodate the diverse and ever-changing requirements of an institution like Cardiff and Vale College. From impromptu deep cleans to remedy of unexpected spills, the landscape of college life is as unpredictable as it is exciting.

No matter how quickly we react to a situation, we're always undertaking tasks with the utmost concern for health and safety. These processes are at the core of our operations, confirming that every task is not only executed with precision but also in line with our IS0 45001 Health & Safety certification.

In valuing the safety of both our team and the college community, we build a foundation of trust and reliability, making certain that our methods are as rigorous as they are effective.

Our team is adept at using a variety of tools and cleaning products, all chosen with the college's specific needs in mind. When there's a sudden need for additional cleaning, we have contingency procedures that swiftly address the situation and guarantee continued operations.

That proactive approach also means anticipating needs, which is where our meticulous work scheduling comes into play. By closely aligning our cleaning with the college’s schedule, we ensure minimal disruption while maximising efficiency.

Viktoriia: "The importance of staff on-boarding and training is pivotal in success for these types of activities too. Even if a team member doesn't initially have extensive cleaning experience, our comprehensive training programme brings them up to speed, bringing a consistent quality of service."

"The appreciation and positive feedback we've received from the college speaks volumes on our team's dedication and hard work. Our vision is to consistently enhance our services, adapt to the college's evolving needs, and ensure that this great partnership remains strong and productive."

For more information on how AQS can provide the bespoke cleaning solutions you demand, contact our customer service team today.