Food and Nutrition

Fresh, Local and Carefully Sourced

At the Gardener Schools Group, we believe that great learning is supported by great food and nutrition. Across our schools, our chefs prepare meals fresh each day using high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers. By working with experienced, independent producers and specialist food suppliers, we are able to ensure that the food served to our pupils is nutritious, responsibly sourced and full of flavour.

Working with Local and Trusted Suppliers

Where possible, we prioritise partnerships with local businesses who share our commitment to quality and sustainability.

Our meat is supplied by Macken Brothers Butchers, an independent family-run butcher based in Turnham Green, Chiswick. Established in 1960, the business has served the local community and catering trade for decades and is known for sourcing high-quality meats from farms across the British Isles. (mackenbrothers.co.uk) All meat delivered to our kitchens is free-range and arrives fresh each day.

Fresh fish is sourced through Browns Seafood, with produce delivered directly from market in refrigerated vans to ensure optimal freshness and quality.

Our fruit and vegetables are supplied by Fletchers Greengrocer, a local supplier who delivers fresh produce from market daily, allowing our chefs to work with seasonal ingredients throughout the year.

Milk, yoghurt and cheese are delivered each day by Morgans Dairy, a family-run dairy business known for its reliable delivery of fresh dairy products.

Alongside these specialist suppliers, we also work with Brakes, one of the UK’s leading foodservice wholesalers, to provide high-quality dry ingredients used by our chefs to prepare sauces, stocks and dishes from scratch.

Freshly Prepared Every Day

Across all Gardener Schools Group kitchens, our chefs prepare food fresh each day. This approach ensures that pupils enjoy meals made with care and attention, rather than pre-prepared or processed alternatives.

Our menus are designed to provide a balanced and varied diet that supports pupils’ wellbeing, concentration and energy throughout the school day.

Highly Trained Kitchen Teams

Food safety and pupil wellbeing are central to everything we do.

All chefs and kitchen staff hold Level 2 Food Safety certificates, ensuring that best practice is followed in the preparation and handling of food. Staff also complete Food Allergy and Intolerance training, enabling them to safely cater for pupils with dietary requirements or allergies.

Our catering leadership team maintains even higher standards of training, including Level 3 Food Safety in Catering and Level 3 Food Allergen qualifications, achieved with distinction.

In addition to food safety training, all catering staff also undertake regular fire safety, first aid and safeguarding training, ensuring that our kitchens operate safely and responsibly within the wider school environment.

Supporting Pupils with Dietary Requirements

Our catering team works closely with parents and pastoral staff to ensure pupils with allergies or specific dietary requirements are fully supported. Through careful ingredient sourcing, allergen training and clear food preparation processes, we ensure every pupil can enjoy safe and nutritious meals. Our Catering Manager is  available to meet with parents if child has specific dietary requirements to discuss how we can cater for their needs.

Supporting Healthy School Communities

Food plays an important role in the life of our schools. Lunchtime is an opportunity not only to nourish pupils but also to bring the community together. By sourcing ingredients carefully, preparing meals fresh each day and maintaining rigorous training standards, we ensure that every meal reflects the high standards expected across the Gardener Schools Group.

Our approach is simple: fresh ingredients, trusted suppliers and skilled chefs, working together to support the health and wellbeing of every pupil.