When our very experienced Head Groundsman was preparing to retire from his position at Northcote College in late 2013 he knew how difficult it would be to find the right replacement for him and suggested we outsource. He did some research and proposals were received from three companies who worked in schools. Turftech had successfully completed a drainage upgrade project on our lower fields in 2012 and had proven their sports field expertise. We outsourced the management of our four sportsfields and grounds department to Turftech from the start of the 2014 year. The existing grounds assistant was employed by them. It was a seamless transition and their two staff are part of the college team. The property staff help when more hands are required and conversely, they help out when caretaking requires it. It started as a one year trial which we renewed without hesitation and are very happy that they’re still here.
Their proven expertise in sports field management has meant that the school can rely on Turftech to just do what needs to be done and programme it in according to the school and seasonal calendar while we sit back, get on with our own jobs and enjoy the feedback from visiting sports teams on what great condition the fields are in – even after a very wet summer and winter. Their staff get on with the job including keeping all the school grounds clean and maintained, gardens planted, rubbish bins emptied, fences kept in good repair, drains cleared of leaves and blockages etc. The school board can rely on their expertise in planning for future grounds works and Turftech also give input into school funded grounds department budgets. We don’t have to worry about grounds staffing. When their staff moved on to follow their dreams Turftech handled the recruitment and training of the new team and ensured we had temp staff until the permanent guys were able to start.
I am confident that Turftech as a company has the expertise we can tap into for any grounds or sports field projects. They attend site meetings with the school’s project manager and Ministry of Education property team to ensure the school’s long term and best interests are foremost on the agenda. We have regular meetings and updates so we all know what’s going on.
I am very happy to recommend them for their professional service looking after the college grounds.
Friederike Cannan
Executive Officer
04 September 2023
