Working together for a greener future
Academy Trust lists communication as a key pillar for a successful decarbonisation project
The importance of collaboration and communication is key when it comes to delivering low-carbon projects, says the Jewish Community Academy Trust.
Faced with inconsistent heating and hot water, the Trust turned to Salix and the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme for help.
The Trust used its £674,831 grant from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to replace six gas-guzzling boilers with three air source heat pumps.
Operations and facilities manager at Jewish Community Academy Trust, Jason Golding, emphasised the impact of drawing on the expertise of key stakeholders when delivering the project.
Communication was everything and we would have fallen down without our weekly calls with Salix. It’s important to know that you’re on track and having a consistent stream of communication with the contractor and our Salix contact helped guide us.”
The low carbon upgrades were introduced into the Trust at Wolfson Hillel Primary School in Enfield, Sacks Morasha Primary School in Barnet, and Hertsmere Jewish Primary Schools in Hertfordshire
Jason said: “Before introducing the new technologies, you couldn’t trust that there would be hot water readily available. Since introducing the upgrades, everyone says that they have noticed a difference in how much warmer it feels.”
In addition to improving the working environment, the project is estimated to save 96 tonnes of carbon annually.
Tailored communication and learning
Jason noted that it’s important to consider your organisation’s requirements when delivering a decarbonisation project, to align it with contractors and the project timeline.
For instance, the Trust could not open its doors to works on Saturdays for religious reasons while the contractors were unavailable on the proposed Sunday alternative.
The Trust ensured that they communicated this factor early on to Salix and extended their timeline by another working week as a result.
The Trust maintained brilliant communication throughout their project. By attending weekly calls and sharing key updates we were able to ensure that we monitored their progress correctly while remaining on hand to provide any guidance.”
Community engagement
The wider community was also kept informed throughout the project.
Staff and students were notified via fortnightly updates with photos and key information was placed throughout the schools to highlight the importance of sustainability to the students.
Assemblies provided the opportunity for teachers to emphasise to students the significance of sustainable efforts when combating climate change.
Moving forward, the Trust is looking to introduce solar panels to its buildings and upgrade all lighting to energy-efficient LED.
Access further information on funding schemes and other success stories on our website.
