Catering Services Tender - St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust

St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust is seeking a catering contractor to provide comprehensive food services to 9 schools (8 primary and 1 secondary) across the Lea Valley area. The contract runs from 1 September 2026 to 31 August 2029, with an optional two-year extension to 31 August 2031. Services include breakfast, morning break, lunchtime, and after-school meals throughout the academic year, plus hospitality services upon request. The contract value is £4.75 million over three years (current annual value £950,000). The Trust prioritizes quality catering using fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared on site, with flexible menus tailored to student needs. The successful contractor must demonstrate strong management presence, build relationships across schools and the Trust, provide timely monthly reporting, and work collaboratively as a partner. Evaluation will be 40% price and 60% quality, with a minimum 60% score required at the Procurement Specific Questionnaire stage before progressing to full tender submission. Minimum requirements include: £5 million combined employers' and public liability insurance, £2 million annual company turnover, and TUPE awareness for existing pension scheme members. Current contractors are Aspens Services and HCL. Additional schools joining the Trust during the contract term may be added at the Trust's discretion. This is a guaranteed performance contract with separate billing for hospitality.