Education catering specialist Chartwells has renewed its partnership with independent education provider Berkhamsted Schools Group.
Originally launched in 2019, the contract was re-awarded through a pre-emptive tender process. Under the renewed six-year agreement, the Compass Group-owned caterer will continue delivering meals to more than 2,700 pupils and staff across sites in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
In addition to providing daily meals across the group’s six independent schools and nursery, Chartwells has introduced a variety of innovative food concepts. These include working closely with international boarding students to create comforting, culturally familiar 'home away from home' dishes, as well as launching a vibrant street food-style offering at Berkhamsted’s new sixth form, which opened in April 2025.
Beyond day-to-day catering, Chartwells also supports the school group with hospitality services for sporting events, guest breakfasts, and weddings.
Noelle Jones, managing director at Chartwells Independent, said: “We’re proud to be extending our long-standing partnership with Berkhamsted Schools Group. Our renewed contract is a nod to how we’ve built a truly collaborative relationship focused on delivering an outstanding dining experience for pupils – one that not only provides nutritious, great-tasting food, but also helps them develop a lifelong understanding of healthy eating and sustainability.
“We’re excited to continue working with Berkhamsted’s team and pupils to evolve the food experience in the years ahead.”
Julian Anthony, chief operating officer at Berkhamsted Schools Group, said the group was 'delighted to be continuing our partnership with Chartwells Independent'.
She said the caterer has 'become a valued extension of our school community, always listening to feedback and willing to go the extra mile'.
The renewal follows a string of recent wins for Chartwells, including new catering contracts with five schools within the Cheshire-based Halliard Trust after a competitive tender process, as well as a separate agreement to provide catering services at the University of Kent’s Canterbury campus.
Financial details of the Berkhamsted Schools Group contract have not been disclosed.