Solution
A core focus was creating dining experiences that students genuinely look forward to. By introducing fresh, vibrant, and imaginative menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients, Thomas Franks ensured food became an exciting and culturally rich part of school life – shaping everyday experiences from breakfast to lunch, extending into parent events and wider school activities.
Collaboration was central to the approach. The Thomas Franks Nutrition Team worked closely with the in-house catering staff to strike the perfect balance between what students desired and what the school were entitled to provide. This partnership guaranteed that meals remained both popular and nutritious, supporting learning, concentration and physical performance.
Respect for the in-house team was a non-negotiable for NLCS during the tender process. Thomas Franks not only upheld this value but exceeded expectations – fulfilling every promise made and ensuring the catering team felt valued, supported and empowered.
Results
Since partnering with Thomas Franks, NLCS has experienced a transformative shift in its food culture. Mealtimes have become an energising part of the school day, with students and staff genuinely excited about the food on offer.
Food is now woven into the fabric of school life – from daily lunches and breakfasts to major school events – enriching the atmosphere and strengthening the community spirit. Students are more engaged with nutrition, understanding how food fuels their learning, sport and overall wellbeing.
The collaborative partnership between the Thomas Franks nutrition specialists and the in-house team has ensured a consistently high standard of food, tailored to the unique needs of NLCS students. The once-challenging balance between preference and responsibility is now managed seamlessly.
Beyond the dining hall, the partnership has created tangible social impact. Through involvement with the Thomas Franks Foundation, students are contributing to charitable meal programmes that support both local and distant communities – reinforcing the school’s values and deepening its culture of service.