Case Study: Highlands School – Successful PFI Handback

Background

Highlands School was originally delivered under a PFI contract in September 2000. 

Since the transfer of the contract to Resolis, we have played a key role in operational oversight, ensuring the school and its surrounding facilities were maintained to the highest standards. 

As the PFI contract approached expiry, Resolis worked closely with stakeholders to prepare for the handback process — a critical phase that required meticulous planning, coordination, and execution.

Challenges

PFI handbacks are inherently complex, requiring:

• Careful review of long-term maintenance obligations.
• Extensive collaboration between contractors, facilities teams, and the local authority.
• Assurance that the site is returned in a condition that meets or exceeds contractual requirements.

In this instance, the project also involved addressing challenging remediation works in the lead-up to hand back. 

Our Approach

Resolis deployed a hands-on, detail-oriented approach, led by Jo Bartlett Knight and Anna Ricci. 

This was achieved by leveraging the Asset Services team’s technical expertise in lifecycle, commercial, and assurance management, combined with the operational knowledge of the project and finance teams.

Their responsibilities included:

• Coordinating with the Council, government bodies and contractors to align expectations.
• Managing technical reviews and inspections.
• Ensuring all works were completed to the highest standard.
• Planning, monitoring and delivery of lifecycle works. 
• Reviewing records and ensuring that all required paperwork was available and completed to the highest standard.

Results

The handback was completed successfully, with exceptionally positive feedback from Enfield Council. 

Feedback highlighted:

• Professional management
  Jo and Anna’s dedication was recognised as instrumental in the smooth delivery of the project.
• Quality of delivery
  The school facilities and grounds exceeded expectations.
• Collaboration
  Resolis stepped in to ensure the best possible condition of the building was achieved. This will make a meaningful difference to the school as they take on the running of the building in the future.

Testimonials

“On behalf of the Council, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to you both for your dedication and management throughout the handback process of our first PFI project. Your commitment has been instrumental in bringing this complex project to a successful conclusion.”
— Ann Chandler-Gould, PFI Contracts Manager, Enfield Council

“The feedback from all stakeholders is fantastic and very well deserved. Thank you to the team for all of your efforts. I know how challenging it has been and really appreciate everything you have done (and continue to do!).”
— Becky Baxter, Operations Director, Resolis

Looking Ahead

The success of the Highlands School handback sets a strong precedent for future projects. 

With further grouped school handbacks on the horizon, Resolis will continue to apply the same dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit to ensure smooth transitions that benefit both local authorities and the communities they serve.

Conclusion

The Highlands School PFI handback showcases Resolis’ ability to navigate complex contractual closures with professionalism and care. 

By focusing on detail, fostering collaboration, and delivering beyond expectations, Resolis helped ensure this landmark project was handed back in a condition that the entire community can be proud of.