The Clean Start initiative, a mission by the Cleaning and Support Services Association (CSSA) to change people’s perceptions of the cleaning industry, continues to promote the message that our industry is a viable and positive career option and has now expanded to reach schools in both the north and south of the UK.
Initiated and led by Daniel Cross, committee member of the CSSA Northern Community Group, it works with local schools and educational institutions to support career fairs, mock interview sessions and school assemblies.
In December 2024, Daniel exhibited at the Hindley Academy careers fair in the North West, discussing opportunities and delivering advice to pupils from years 9 to 11, and in January this year members of the CSSA Southern Community (SCG) had the privilege of attending the Highams Park School Careers Fair in London for the second year running.
Merci Marosi, of the CSSA SCG, said: “We had an amazing opportunity to showcase the diverse and exciting opportunities within the cleaning and facilities management industry to students from years 7 to 11 and sixth form.
“Together, we brought a range of expertise and had a fantastic time engaging with the students, answering their questions, and highlighting the many career paths available within the sector.”
Alongside a number of school visits planned for 2025, the Clean Start initiative will be supported by the visit of 70 students to The Cleaning Show, Excel, London on 20 March. Understanding the scope and potential in the cleaning industry is key to address the skills gap and attract the next generation into our Industry.