Kent County Council extends deal with Chartwells

The deal worth £5.4 million over two years will see Chartwells catering for pupils at 94 primary schools in the county. Kent pupils will continue to have the option of a hot meal or a healthy packed lunch. Chartwells is also rolling out a new food offer whereby pupils are served a portion of meat or protein by catering staff but help themselves to carbohydrates, vegetables and salad. This new service gives children the freedom to make their own choices while ensuring they maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Mark Sleep, client services manager for Kent County Council said: "The meals provided by Chartwells meet the Government's food and nutrient standards and together we have placed great emphasis on ensuring our menus reflect what young people want to eat. "Kent County Council is also working closely with Chartwells and our schools on several initiatives that are already showing significant increases in meal uptake." Tony Byrne, business director, Chartwells, continued: "At an age when children are growing and developing, a balanced diet is key. As the leading provider of primary school meals in the UK and as part of our Eat, Learn Live philosophy, Chartwells meets and exceeds Government standards while giving children a choice about what they eat. We are delighted to continue our relationship with Kent County Council and to roll out our new food offering."