Chartwells scoops £5m deal with Edinburgh school


Chartwells Independent, Compass Group UK & Ireland’s specialist provider of catering to the independent education sector, has been awarded a new contract to provide catering, hospitality and cleaning services to Merchiston School, in a deal worth £5m over five years.

Merchiston School, based in Edinburgh, is Scotland’s only all-boys independent boarding school. Founded in 1828, it is located in 100 acres of parkland and has over 450 pupils in attendance.

Chartwells Independent will be developing a tailored food offer that will match the calibre of the school and reflect its ethos, which is based on people and relationships, as well as the development of personal character and traditional values. Chartwells will be serving breakfast, lunch and tea seven days a week at the school, as well as delivering hospitality catering.

In line with the school’s commitment to pastoral care, whereby all boys have a defined support structure in place to monitor and mentor their well-being and happiness, Chartwells Independent will be complimenting this by supporting the school’s health and nutrition mission. Examples of this include Chartwells’ Smart Food programme which ensures pupils can make positive food choices, resulting in a well-balanced diet.

Richard Taylor, Managing Director, Chartwells commented, “Chartwells Independent is proud to be working with Merchiston School to provide catering, hospitality and cleaning services that reflect the school’s quality.

'We will be working side by side with pupils and colleagues at the school to enhance the dining experience, drawing on the knowledge and experience of our expert chefs and nutritionists to create delicious and nourishing meals.”

Pippa Axon, Bursar, Merchiston School, Edinburgh added: “Chartwells has a proven track record in the independent education sector of successfully understanding the unique requirements of each and every school, providing pupils and staff with well-balanced, healthy meals. That’s why we looked at all the available options and have decided to work with Chartwells.

'As Merchiston School, Edinburgh moves into the future with confidence and vision, we are delighted to be working with Chartwells for the next five years. Together, we have much to achieve!”