The Integra Consultancy Story
In the world of education, there are often unseen challenges that shape the daily experiences of teachers and students alike. Peter Sherringham, the founder of Integra Consultancy, saw these challenges first-hand during his 19 years as a teacher. He noticed a growing disconnect between the increasing expectations placed on teachers and the lack of adequate support and training provided to meet these demands. This realisation ignited his passion to create Integra Consultancy, a beacon of support and innovation for educational institutions across Australia.
Since its inception in 2020, Integra Consultancy has embarked on a mission to provide bespoke services tailored to the unique needs of each school. "Our mission is to provide quality services through listening, understanding, and looking at the circumstances of individual schools," Peter explains. This personalised approach has positioned Integra as a leader in educational support services, encompassing Work Health and Safety (WHS), facilities management, and training.
Building Foundations for Success
Peter's journey from the classroom to consultancy was driven by his experiences as a TAS/VET Coordinator, where he encountered the overwhelming increase in compliance requirements. "Good teaching and learning go hand in hand with a strong foundation in WHS," he asserts. By ensuring that workshops and educational environments are safe, functional, and well-organised, Integra fosters an atmosphere where effective teaching and learning can flourish.
The consultancy's growth has been remarkable. From equipment maintenance to comprehensive WHS audits, facility design consultations, and workshop procurement and installation, Integra offers a diverse range of services. Over 50 primary schools, high schools, universities, and industry organisations across Australia have benefited from Integra's expertise. This success stems from Peter's deep understanding of the educational landscape, which allows his team to bridge the gap between teachers, school requirements, and regulatory standards seamlessly.
Expertise Rooted in Education
One of the key strengths of Integra Consultancy lies in its highly trained and qualified personnel. Peter emphasises that "our staff have worked in education, so we understand how schools operate." This insider perspective ensures that the consultancy's solutions are practical, effective, and minimally disruptive. By speaking "teacher speak," Integra is able to communicate complex requirements in a way that is accessible and actionable for educational staff.
Compliance with legislative and systemic standards is a cornerstone of Integra's services. Schools face a myriad of regulations, from child protection and curriculum standards to WHS and building codes. Integra meticulously tailors its solutions to meet these diverse requirements, ensuring that schools are not only compliant but also safe and conducive to learning. The adherence to ISO Exemplar Global Standards in audits further underscores Integra's commitment to excellence.
Inspiring Change and Cultivating Relationships
Peter's personal values and principles permeate every aspect of Integra Consultancy. "Teamwork, building capacity, problem-solving, listening, simplicity, and building relationships" are the guiding lights of his leadership. These values not only drive the consultancy's operations but also resonate deeply with the educational institutions they serve. Peter cherishes the relationships he has built with schools, noting that "the little differences I make at the schools I go to are rewarding."
One of the most humbling aspects of Peter's journey is seeing the tangible impact of Integra's work. "In some schools, I have come to know the staff and the nuances of the school. I can see the changes that have been made and their positive impact." This ongoing relationship with schools is a testament to the consultancy's dedication and effectiveness.
Looking Ahead: Innovation and Expansion
Integra Consultancy is not resting on its laurels. The future holds exciting prospects for the consultancy, including the addition of new services such as Electrical Tag and Test and Playground and Play Equipment Inspection Services. An online platform for teacher and student training and resources is also in the pipeline, reflecting Integra's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
As the landscape of WHS compliance evolves, Peter is acutely aware of the increasing stringency of standards. Schools are now more accountable than ever, with dedicated teams overseeing WHS compliance. Integra is preparing for these changes by expanding its team and services, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of educational support.
A Call to Action
Peter's advice to schools looking to enhance their WHS compliance and overall safety standards is simple yet profound: "Reach out and seek advice. This is something that you don’t need to do alone." He encourages schools to set short, medium, and long-term goals, creating quick wins and bringing staff along on the journey through consultation. "Help is only a phone call or a visit away," he assures.
Peter's inspiration comes from his family, staff, and students. His parents' journey from humble beginnings to successful business owners instilled in him the importance of relationships, trust, and quality. His daughter's curiosity and love for learning fuel his passion for making a difference in education.
Join the Journey
Integra Consultancy stands as a testament to the power of dedication, expertise, and a heartfelt commitment to improving education. Peter Sherringham's vision and values have created a consultancy that not only meets compliance standards but also enhances the educational experience for teachers and students alike. For schools seeking a partner in navigating the complexities of WHS and facilities management, Integra Consultancy offers a trusted and transformative solution. Join the journey towards safer, more efficient, and inspiring educational environments with Integra Consultancy.