Chartwells wins £6.3m Isle of Wight school meals deal

Compass Group's education business Chartwells has won a new £6.3m contract at schools on the Isle of Wight through the Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) Catering Framework.

The three-year deal, with an option to extend, will see Chartwells invest in upgraded facilities and introduce new methods of cash collection and pre-ordering.

A new range of menus will be available, with the caterer working with island-based suppliers to include local and seasonal produce in its food offer.

Chartwells will also run a new apprenticeship programme for five young people aged 16-18 in each year of the contract, with the aim of offering local people the chance to develop new skills and gain qualifications.

Robin Mills, managing director for Chartwells, said: "Our shared aim is to reinvigorate the school meals service and provide great improvements in the quality, variety and sustainability of food for children and young people at every school within this contract.

"We want to encourage more children and young people to eat school meals, providing them with the fuel they need to build strong bodies and minds."

By Janie Manzoori-Stamford

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