Independents by Sodexo has been awarded the catering and hospitality contract at George Watson’s College in Edinburgh, bolstering a partnership that has spanned more than 35 years.
The five-year contract, with option to extend by a further five years, will see Independents by Sodexo provide catering and hospitality for the school’s 2,300 pupils, aged 3 to 18 years, as well as staff and visitors from 1 August 2026.
Independents by Sodexo’s offer focuses on food quality, pupil choice, wellbeing and consistency across all age groups, while aligning closely with the values and ethos of George Watson’s College.
From the start of the new academic year, attendees at the school can look forward to a modern, pupil‑centred food offer. Alongside familiar favourites, pupils will be able to choose from new world food menus inspired by global flavours and designed to encourage curiosity, choice and enjoyment at mealtimes.
The new partnership will also support a planned programme of investment in the school’s catering facilities, including the refurbishment of both the Junior and Senior School dining areas and the introduction of a new ‘Scranvan’, creating additional choice and flexibility for pupils across the school day.
Sodexo has a long-standing relationship with the school, having provided cleaning services for 35 years.
Simon Knight, Managing Director, Independents by Sodexo said: “We are incredibly proud of our partnership with George Watson’s College, and are delighted to be able to bring our catering offer to its staff and pupils. We focus on crafting nourishing meals that bring pupils and staff together and help support their wellbeing throughout the school day, and we are excited to bring a refreshed food provision to pupils at the start of the next academic year.”
Su Breadner, Chief Operating Officer at George Watson’s College, said: “We pride ourselves on the wellbeing of our pupils and staff, and food plays a central role in this. We were impressed by Independents by Sodexo’s offer and look forward to working with the chefs and front-of-house team to create a dining service that excites pupils and helps fuel them throughout their busy school and extra-curricular activities.”
Working with over 80 schools, including some of the most reputable institutions across the country, Independents by Sodexo aims at delivering catering, facilities management and hospitality services that improve the quality of life for pupils, teaching staff and the wider school community.
