How it started

When we first set up the "Feeding our Future" project our vision was to help and advise schools in running their own service, we never anticipated actually managing the service for them. Although we were proving to be very successful in helping schools run their own in-house catering, there was a recurring theme from prospective new customers. "We love what you are doing but we do not want the hassle of managing the catering".

So, after a lot of deliberation and discussions within the team, we came up with our "Catering Partnership".  Although we did have reservations about changing what Ashlyns set out to do, we equally understood that there were barriers preventing other schools joining with us. Some schools felt that the responsibility of providing the entirety of their catering services would in some instances be best placed with an outside agency.

We did not want to be viewed as another "contract caterer". We had seen the success of  the in-house approach where the school meal plays a major role in the cirriculum and we wanted this to continue even though a third party (us) would be managing the kitchen.

We asked three questions of ourselves which would decide whether we moved forward with this idea which were:- does it fit the ethos of the business?, can we meet the customers needs?, will it be financially viable for both parties?. Thankfully the answer was yes to all three and we launched the initiative with two schools in April 2008. 

How it works

 As in any arrangement there does need to be a level of flexibility but the basic concept is that Ashlyns manages the catering from start to finish. After the initial consultation and agreement, budgets will be set for the catering service. We then endeavour to meet or exceed said budget collaboratively. Ultimately the school will pay all of the associated costs of running the service which includes our management fee. If there is a surplus at the end of the year then we would hope that the school will re-invest that surplus into the kitchen or dining hall.

Menus 

A basic menu is designed by Ashlyns and then after a consultation with the school, school council or any other interested group changes will be made. The menu will be a three week rotating menu that is changed twice a year to help with seasonality as well as weather. The menu is analysed using a computer program to ensure they meet the Governmental Nutritional Standards as well the Food Based Standards. Recipes will be provided for all dishes as well as any theme day ideas.

Food

Ashlyns will source all products on the schools behalf. The vast majority of products will come direct from Ashlyns food hub except for the dry goods which will come from a nominated local supplier.

Staff

Where there are no pension issues Ashlyns will employ all catering staff. Where a LGPS is in place then the school will employ the catering staff and Ashlyns will line manage them.

Training 

We have our own purpose built training kitchen to provide bespoke training for all catering staff.  Click here to find out more.

How much does it cost?

There is a flat annual management fee. The true cost of running the service can only be assessed by completing a provisional budget. This will take into account staff costs, food costs, sundries, paid income and free school meal allowances. This will also forecast expected meal uptake and provide goals and targets to work towards. The budget is part of a bigger package that we use to monitor financial and physical performances on a monthly basis. 

 If you are interested and would like to discuss your schools needs further or you would like us to come and visit you then please contact us