How Holy Spirit Catholic and C of E Primary School streamlined systems and strengthened parent engagement with Compass and hi-impact

Holy Spirit Catholic and C of E Primary School, located on the Wirral, is a values-led school committed to ensuring every child leaves as a happy, confident and successful individual, with a strong moral purpose for the greater good.

With a growing need to streamline processes and improve communication with families, the school began exploring a more connected, efficient approach to managing day-to-day operations.

In this case study, School Business Manager Allie Tuomey shares how moving to Compass, supported by trusted partner hi-impact, has helped simplify systems, reduce workload, and strengthen engagement across their school community.

The Challenge We Faced

As a School Business Manager, no two days are ever the same. One minute I might be managing a budget of over £1 million, and the next I’m dealing with something completely different, like unblocking a sink. With such a varied role, having efficient, reliable systems in place is essential, but before Compass, that wasn’t our reality.

One of our biggest challenges was communication with parents and carers. We were using three different platforms, which made things time-consuming for staff and confusing for families. 

Instead of supporting our work, our systems often slowed us down. It felt like we were spending too much time navigating systems rather than focusing on the work that really mattered. Simple tasks had become real “time stealers” in our day-to-day work, and it was clear something needed to change.

Finding the Right Solution

We were introduced to Compass and their school management system through our trusted support partner, and friends, hi-impact.

What really appealed to us was the operational efficiency Compass could offer, alongside the potential for cost savings. When we compared it to other systems, it was simply the best we had seen.

The onboarding process was excellent. We were guided the whole way through by Compass and hi-impact. It made what could have been a daunting change feel straightforward and well supported.

The Difference It’s Making

Moving to Compass has made a noticeable difference across the school.

Historically, we were very paper-heavy, but now we’ve been able to digitise many of our processes. Tasks like first aid logging and absence reporting are now managed within Compass, helping us work more efficiently and consistently.

“Simple tasks had become real time stealers. Now, we’re saving time every day and working far more efficiently.”

One of the biggest impacts has been on communication. The Parent App has made it much easier for families to stay informed about all school news. The App is user-friendly, and feedback from parents has been very positive.

“The Parent App has made a huge difference to our communications, and the feedback from parents has been really positive.”

From an operational perspective, we’ve also seen significant financial savings and have been able to free up valuable time within the office team.

Staff have found the system really easy to use and pick up, which has helped with adoption across the school.

“What could have been a daunting change felt straightforward and well guided, with support from Compass and hi-impact the whole way through.”

Looking Ahead

As we continue to develop how we use Compass, we’re particularly interested in exploring areas like tracking staff absence triggers to further strengthen our processes.

For other schools considering a change of MIS, my advice would be simple: don’t hesitate, book a demo and go and see it in action. 

And if you’re thinking about Compass with hi-impact support, I’d say you won’t find better. The combination of a powerful, intuitive system and expert local support really does make all the difference.

Feeling stretched by systems that slow you down?

If your school is looking to streamline systems, save valuable time, and improve communication with families, Compass, supported by hi-impact, can help you
work more efficiently every day.