Catering Services Contract - Howard Academies Trust (9 Schools)

The Howard Academies Trust, a Multi-Academy Trust comprising 9 schools across Medway, Kent, and Bexley (5,300 pupils, 850 staff), seeks a catering contractor to provide high-quality, fresh, nutritious meals across primary and secondary schools. The Trust's schools include 4 secondary schools (one UTC), 4 primary schools, with approximately 23.8% of pupils entitled to free school meals and 20.5% with SEN needs. The successful contractor will deliver consistent, innovative food services using fresh, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients prepared on-site, supporting the Trust's values of inclusivity, dignity, respect, and ambition. A key focus is improving uptake and quality, particularly in Medway schools. The contractor must evidence how their bid supports the Trust's vision and Every Child Matters principles. Currently, catering is provided by three separate contractors; this tender consolidates services into a single provider. The contract runs for 2 years and 11 months from 1 November 2026 to 31 August 2029, with an optional two-year extension. The Trust has invested £80,000 in kitchen equipment in 2024/25 with a further £80,000 planned for 2025/26. Tenders should be based on nil cost or better on a guaranteed performance basis. The Trust seeks a lasting partnership with a collaborative caterer committed to enhancing pupil nutrition and dining experience.