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The health and wellbeing of pupils is of paramount importance to Hurst. We understand that good nutrition is vital in helping our pupils achieve their best in and outside of school and we have a responsibility to provide nourishing and appetising food.
To achieve this we chose Sodexo as our food providers; a company with more than 50 years’ experience in providing meals to many of the country’s leading independent schools. Sodexo understands the importance of the part they play in the day, diet and educational experience of pupils.
The 42-strong catering team produce quality nutritious meals from scratch using the best ingredients. Menus offer a balance between old favourites, such as a traditional roast, and new dishes influenced by current high street trends. Meals are seasonal, reflecting the best of fresh local produce and are developed to offer variety, providing pupils with a range of healthy options but also allowing for treats. Wherever possible British seasonal fruit and vegetables are used and fish is often caught off the coast at Newhaven the night before being served.
Sodexo organises special themed days throughout the year, which can include Chinese, Mexican and Caribbean cuisine, or meals which link to historical events.
In addition to lunch for 1,500 pupils and staff, Sodexo also provides breakfast and dinner for our 400 weekly or flexi boarders. The team also provides the catering for house balls, sporting fixtures and other events and functions held at the school.
Special diets are catered for, whether based on personal choice, religious observance or medical reasons, and catering staff are fully trained on allergens.
Hurst Junior Prep School take part in the ‘Eat Them to Defeat Them’ national campaign to inspire children to embrace healthy eating. Read more here.
Full Circle Farm initiative
In September 2024, Sodexo acquired an acre of local land, in partnership with Full Circle Farms, to establish the company’s own source of food.
The venture is built on a full-circle farming ecosystem – where food waste from Hurst is composted to nourish the crops they grow.
The aim is for Hurst to expand its range of fruit and vegetables grown on their own farm to use as ingredients for College meals. Pupils have the opportunity to visit the farm for hands-on experience and insights into sustainable farming practices.
