Taylor Shaw, a leading caterer for the education sector, has announced the extension of its catering contract with Equals Trust, a Nottinghamshire-based multi-academy trust. Originally appointed in 2023 to provide catering services to 12 primary schools, Taylor Shaw has extended its support to an additional five schools, bringing the total to 17 schools across the Trust.
Over the past 18 months, Taylor Shaw has developed a strong and collaborative relationship with Equals Trust, going beyond the daily provision of freshly prepared, nutritious meals. The contract caterer has worked closely with the schools to deliver enriching experiences for children, including:
- Fun to Cook sessions: hands-on food preparation experiences where pupils learn about kitchen safety, how to chop vegetables and prepare simple, nutritious dishes, and blend healthy smoothies using a pedal-powered smoothie bike.
- Themed food events throughout the year to enhance the dining experience, such as a Census Day menu and seasonable menus, including Christmas lunches.
- Sponsorship of a major musical performance opportunity, enabling 350 children to sing at the Albert Hall in April 2025.
- Hosting parent evenings and engagement sessions to showcase the food offering and to share with families the various initiatives that Taylor Shaw has introduced.
In addition to these initiatives, Equals Trust has supported Taylor Shaw by appearing in an informative video about medical diets, highlighting its commitment to meeting the specialist needs of all pupils, including those on a medical diet. The video aims to raise awareness and showcase best practices in safely catering for children with allergies and special dietary requirements.
Jo Anne Robertson, managing director, Taylor Shaw said; “This partnership with Equals Trust has been one of shared values and mutual support. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together – the opportunity to enhance the lives of pupils through the provision of nutritious food and also through other initiatives such as unforgettable experiences like the Albert Hall performance. We’re thrilled to continue this journey with even more schools across the Trust.”
Elizabeth Gregory, Operations Manager at Equals Trust, added: “Taylor Shaw has become part of our school family. They go beyond just serving food and not only create enjoyable mealtimes but also support and engage with our children outside of the dining room. We’re pleased to be extending this partnership and to serve delicious food to even more children across the Trust.”
The expanded contract marks a significant step in the partnership, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to delivering high-quality support for children that goes far beyond the lunch provision.
