Grounds maintenance that supports learning

Step Academy Trust manages a network of schools, prioritising safe, well-maintained outdoor spaces to support learning, play, and community use.

The challenge

In 2025, Step Academy Trust faced issues with a previous contractor, resulting in poorly maintained grounds and disruption across its schools.

They required a reliable provider who could step in at short notice, resolve existing issues, and restore standards across all sites.

Football pitch line marking

Our approach

Countrywide was contacted to provide immediate support. We carried out remedial works at all schools to bring the grounds up to specification before transitioning into ongoing maintenance.

Our teams implemented structured maintenance schedules while ensuring flexibility to respond to site-specific needs and seasonal demands.

The solution

By delivering remedial works first, we ensured each school was safe, compliant, and presentable.

Ongoing grounds maintenance was established, with clear schedules and communication to guarantee consistent quality. Our approach prioritised rapid problem resolution and long-term performance.

The results

 

  • All schools brought up to specification quickly
  • Positive feedback from staff and management since takeover
  • Reliable, consistent grounds maintenance established across all sites
  • Contract set to grow in 2026 to include additional schools
  • Improved operational confidence for Step Academy Trust
Wild flowers

Ongoing relationship

Countrywide continues to support Step Academy Trust with both scheduled maintenance and responsive works. Our rapid mobilisation, remedial expertise, and structured approach allow the trust to maintain safe, well-presented grounds while expanding the contract to more schools.

1
See your site
2
Measure your grounds
3
Select your priorities
4
Get your tailored site assessment

Your Site Assessment Tool

Get a detailed site assessment in minutes

1
See your site
2
Measure your grounds
3
Select your priorities
4
Get your tailored site assessment

Your Site Assessment Tool

Get a detailed site assessment in minutes

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We’re committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve and the environment we work in. Through THRIVE, we support local people, protect the planet and help build a more sustainable future.

Learn more about our ESG commitments

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