Sidmouth College ~ Catering Tender

The contract covers the scope for the provision of all catering services within the School, 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 1 April 2023, with the potential to extend for a further two 12-month periods. This extension 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. Sidmouth College is seeking a suitably experienced education catering contractor who is able to evidence working with Secondary Schools in the Southwest region. The successful contractor will already have or need to develop a strong operational base within the local vicinity, thus allowing for both adequate contract support and operational flexibility that is to be delivered 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 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 School wishes to achieve as a result of this tender process: 1.The provision of a healthy, balanced menu that meets nutritional guidelines and is enjoyed by all users of the service. This menu should be inclusive of those with special dietary requirements. 2.An enhanced range of freshly made food and beverage items for sale, to include meal deal options priced to be inclusive for free school meals students. 3.An innovative and flexible menu that is in keeping with current food trends. 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. 4.The development of the sixth form café to provide a retail offer that promotes the facilities available at the School. 5.All meals should be based on the use of fresh ingredients and bakery products, making use of the abundant, local supply chain within Devon. It is expected that experienced and insightful contract management will promote good levels of communication and engagement with the School. A suitable marketing campaign to the students, staff and parents alike is imperative to promote the uptake of meals. There are multiple service outlets across the School site which are open to differing student bases, these should be tailored to suit the needs of the various students and staff utilising each outlet. This enhanced service should be supported by a well-trained catering team at the school, 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. To achieve overall value for money is an objective of this tender. However, please note that the School is not obliged to accept the lowest price and the contract award will be in line with the marking matrix published within the tender specification where an overall focus will be given to food quality and innovation of the catering offer, as well the management support.