28 years, one focus.
Independent schools
We've spent nearly three decades doing one thing well. Every decision we make, every chef we train, every menu we write is for independent schools and independent schools only.
Delicious, nutritious, fresh food. Prepared and served by people who really care. Since 1997, this has been our simple aim – and fulfilling it has helped us grow into one of the UK's leading contract-catering companies, working exclusively with independent schools.
Led by people who
know this sector inside out
220
Schools served
every day (and evening!)
Scott Morley and Robin Bidgood run Holroyd Howe as Joint Managing Directors. Between them, they've spent decades in the premium food service industry. They visit schools regularly and are a familiar face across all the schools we partner with, creating and strengthening collaborative relationships.
Cooked on site. Every dish. Every day.
Our chefs are trained professionals working in your school's kitchen. Nothing is reheated or delivered pre-made. Menus change with the seasons and are written for your pupils specifically.
Your catering team, not ours
Our on-site teams wear your school's identity. They know pupils by name, attend school events, and become part of your community. Our very first client, from 1997, is still with us.
Our Values
Are at the heart of everything we do
Inspiring
every pupil
Inspiring
every pupil
We create safe, supportive spaces where children feel inspired, confident, and encouraged to thrive. Their wellbeing is always our priority.
Empowering our people
Empowering our people
We attract, nurture, and retain exceptional talent. Our teams are friendly, enthusiastic, creative and truly love what they do.
Food that
sparks curiosity
Food that
sparks curiosity
We craft flavour‑packed, nourishing dishes designed to educate, excite, and create memorable dining experiences.
Protecting
our planet
Protecting
our planet
We champion seasonal UK produce, reduce waste, and promote sustainable, planet‑positive behaviours in every kitchen and dining room.
Building trusted partnerships
Building trusted partnerships
We listen, collaborate, and build relationships rooted in integrity, respect, and a shared vision for excellence.
Our team
The people who make it happen
Andrew Cramphorn
Finance Director
Christophe Van Damme
Operations Director
Over 2,000 people. All in independent schools.
Every chef, nutritionist, and kitchen porter we employ works in an independent school. That's all we do, and we train them accordingly.
Milestones
From 1997
The beginning
Holroyd Howe was established as a specialist contract caterer for independent schools, driven by a genuine passion for feeding independent with thoughtfully crafted, high‑quality food.
2009
Our 50th site milestone
In 2009, Holroyd Howe reached a major milestone with the opening of our 50th independent school location. This achievement strengthened our presence in the independent education sector and laid the foundation for the continued growth and innovation that define our service today.
2012
Opening 100 sites
In 2012, Holroyd Howe entered a major phase of expansion, celebrating the opening of its 100th school site and strengthening its presence across the independent education sector through notable new partnerships.
In 2014, Holroyd Howe achieved exceptional momentum, growing the business by 40% in a single year. This milestone marked a major step in our expansion and reinforced our position as a leading caterer within the independent education sector.
2014
Momentum takes off
2015
Our commitment to giving
We launched the Holroyd Howe Foundation in 2015 to formalise our charitable giving, supporting communities and causes in food, education, and hospitality, strengthening our commitment to positive social impact.
An award‑winning year, marked by the Foodservice Cateys Award, recognition as Independent School Caterer of the Year at the EDUcatering Excellence Awards, and our first People Awards celebrating the achievements of our teams.
2016
An award-winning year
2021
Environmental excellence
We were recognised with two International Green Apple Awards, a Gold for Environmental Best Practice in Hospitality and Bronze for Sustainable Development.
2024
Leading with Net Zero targets
We became one of the very few food service operators worldwide to secure an SBTi‑approved commitment to reach net zero by 2040. This milestone that reflects our dedication to reducing our environmental impact and leading meaningful change.
2025
Celebrating double honors for nutrition
Ellie Olds our Head of Nutrition, achieved a rare double win, receiving both a 2025 Acorn Award and a 2025 Foodservice Catey. Recognised for her balanced, evidence‑led approach to nutrition in schools.
2026
Serving up Food For Life
Our schools achieved the Food for Life Bronze accreditation, recognising us for our freshly prepared, seasonal menus, higher welfare ingredients, and strong food education, demonstrating our commitment to healthier, more sustainable school meals.
Our trusted partners
The standards behind what we do
Supporting pupils at risk of serious allergic reactions
Rescuing surplus produce and supporting British farmers
Recognition for meeting strong sustainability standards
For effective planning and costing of recipes and menus
Rewarding and recognising our employees
Supporting and advocating for pupils with coeliac disease
Get to know us
Katie Gardener and Jenny Rollings
Our Business Development team