Mulberry Schools Trust is a multi-academy trust comprising of 14 schools across London and East Sussex, including primary, secondary and technical education provision. Our schools serve communities with diverse backgrounds and needs, united by a shared commitment to outstanding achievement for all. Our approach is founded on the belief that education is a human right and has the power to transform lives and create greater equality of opportunity. We are committed to overcoming the barriers associated with social and economic disadvantage, combining high academic and technical ambition with rich personal development and opportunities that nurture creativity, leadership and self-determination.
Each of our schools has its own distinctive identity, reflecting the needs and aspirations of the communities it serves. Through collaboration, shared expertise and wider partnerships, we seek to provide an exceptional educational experience and the best possible opportunities for every child and young person. We recognise that the quality of services supporting our schools, including catering, contributes to pupils' health, wellbeing and overall school experience. We therefore value high standards, inclusivity and services that respond effectively to the differing needs of our school communities. Further information regarding Mulberry Schools Trust can be obtained here: https://mulberryschoolstrust.org/
Tender information:
The successful tenderer will be required to provide excellent catering services to 6 schools within Mulberry Schools Trust, which includes the following locations:
• Mulberry Academy Bexhill - secondary
•Mulberry Academy Hastings - secondary
•Mulberry Academy St Leonards - secondary
•Mulberry Baird Primary
•Mulberry Silverdale Primary
•Mulberry West St Leonards Primary
The contract will be awarded for an initial period of two years, commencing on 1 August 2027 and ending on 31 July 2029.
The Trust will have the option, at its sole discretion, to extend the contract for up to a further three years. Extensions may be exercised in periods of 12, 24 or 36 months, either individually or successively, subject to a maximum overall contract duration of five years, ending no later than 31 July 2032. The Trust may exercise further extension options during any existing extension period, provided that the total extension period does not exceed three years. Any extension will be exercised by written notice in accordance with the terms of the contract. The Trust is under no obligation to exercise any extension option. The contract offers an excellent opportunity to review and propose enhancements to the current catering services. This includes but is not limited to; breakfast, morning break, lunchtime and after school services, over the academic year, plus hospitality services upon request.
The Client is keen to secure a high quality catering service including fresh locally sourced ingredients prepared on site, with a menu design that is flexible to suit the requirements of the specific students. The Client is proud of their ‘family ethos’ and expects both a tightly managed service and a management style delivered by the successful contractor that supports, encourages and develops the catering staff.
Contract Objectives:
1 - High-quality, nutritious and appealing food
The contractor is expected to deliver freshly prepared, nutritious and appetising meals using high-quality, seasonal and responsibly sourced ingredients, with food prepared on site wherever practicable. Menus should offer variety, promote healthy eating, reflect pupils' preferences and comply with all applicable School Food Standards.
2 - High levels of pupil satisfaction and meal uptake
The Contractor must create a positive, welcoming and enjoyable dining experience that encourages pupils to choose school meals. The contractor should actively seek to improve pupil satisfaction and meal uptake, including participation by pupils eligible for free school meals, while ensuring that all pupils are treated with dignity and that access to meals is inclusive and free from stigma.
3 - A service responsive to individual school communities
The Contractor must provide a flexible, pupil-centred service that recognises the different requirements of primary and secondary pupils and the individual circumstances of each school. Menus, service arrangements and dining experiences should be informed by meaningful engagement with pupils, parents and school leaders, while maintaining consistently high standards across all six schools.
4 - Exceptional standards of food safety and dietary inclusion
The Contractor must maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, allergen management and safe food preparation and service. Appropriate provision must be made for pupils with allergies, medical or special dietary requirements, and religious, cultural or ethical food preferences, supported by effective procedures, staff training and communication with schools and familie
