Cornwall Education Learning Trust ~ Catering Tender

The contract covers the scope for the provision of all catering services across the Trust, which also includes all hospitality and free issue requirements. The duration of the contract being offered is for an initial three-year period commencing on 01 September 2025, with the potential to extend for a further two 12-month periods. These extensions will be granted by mutual consent and on the same terms and conditions as the original contract without the right to further extend beyond the full five years. The contract being offered within this tender will be on a guaranteed performance basis, with an expected profit share of any betterment to the agreed budget. The Trust are seeking a suitably experienced, education catering contractor who is able to evidence working within both Primary and Secondary Schools. The successful contractor will already have adequate resource, contract support and operational flexibility within the South West region, that is to be deployed to support the contract as and when needed moving forwards into this contractual term. The services are currently outsourced and TUPE is expected to apply. It is possible that some of the current employees are members of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and, in this instance, the successful contractor will be expected to gain Admitted Body Status (ABS) in order to continue contributing to the scheme. The Trust wishes to achieve as a result of this tender process: 1.The provision of a colourful, healthy and balanced food offer. This should be inclusive of those with special dietary requirements. 2.An innovative and flexible menu offering frequent themed menus and initiatives that support the curriculum and various school led activities, ensuring the food offer remains varied and enticing to its customers. 3.A suitable, effective marketing campaign in order to maximise on sales revenue, thus resulting in a cost efficient service. 4.A strong relief network to ensure absences, both short and long term, can be covered. 5.Improved sustainability across the estate, in order to achieve the Trust’s longer term strategic goals towards carbon neutrality. 6.A partnership with the successful contractor in order to develop the existing service. It is expected that experienced and insightful contract management will promote good levels of communication and engagement across the Trust. The management team should be proactive in communicating directly with School Leaders, as well as through frequent contract review meetings to ensure that the Trust is up to date with the performance of the contract, both financial and operational. This enhanced service should be supported by a well-trained and supported catering team across the Schools, with a focus by the successful contractor on both craft training and customer service. There needs to be total transparency with accounts that are clear and easy to understand. The monthly invoice should be supported by a breakdown of the contract’s financial performance against budget.