Delivering Mechanical & Electrical solutions for North East schools

The challenge

With a collection of 48 schools, the Trust was looking to implement a first-of-its-kind initiative and overcome the operational challenges it was facing by optimising and streamlining the process of procuring minor works contracts.

Key requirements

The Trust was focused on enhancing social value and creating a positive impact on the schools and local economy. Through engaging with the local business community, it was committed to creating a forward pipeline, improving supply chain sustainability and engaging in a programme that delivered cost savings and improved the speed of delivery of minor works.

Our solution

In June 2024, Odin was awarded a 4-year Mechanical & Electrical contract. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for both organisations, underscoring our commitment to delivering exceptional facilities solutions.

Our approach

In the first summer, we successfully delivered three projects for BWCET:

Plant room installation: This marked the first phase of a comprehensive two-phase heating system upgrade.

Two full fire alarm system upgrades: We implemented state-of-the-art fire alarm systems to enhance fire safety measures, ensuring rapid detection and response to potential fire hazards.

Minimising disruption:  All works were carried out during the six-week holidays, ensuring no disruption to normal school operations.

The impact

BWCET’s minor works programme secured over £1.2 million in social value commitment, with the initiative enhancing the regional economy. The Trust is working closely with local providers including SMEs, such as ourselves. This has resulted in 271 employment and training opportunities, including 20 new FTE jobs, almost 30 apprenticeships and over 220 flexible employment opportunities and work experience placements.

Key outcomes

Proactive safety and compliance: The minor works programme ensures that the schools within the Trust continue to adhere to stringent safety regulations, protecting the entire network.

Strengthened local partnerships: BWCET’s work with local SMEs fosters a more sustainable supply chain and boosts the local economy.

Improved facility performance: We are committed to supporting the Trust with a variety of M&E installations and upgrades over the next four years.

We are delighted to be partnered with BWCET and to be delivering cutting-edge M&E solutions to the Trust over the next four years. We will continue to adapt our services to ensure that schools across Northumberland, Gateshead, Sunderland and Durham remain safe, efficient, and comfortable learning environments for all.