Our long-standing partnership with City Schools has supported meaningful progress in sustainability and environmental awareness. Through our shared values, aligned priorities, and a joint commitment to responsible practice, the partnership has delivered positive outcomes for the school community while strengthening its overall sustainability culture.
Sustainability & ESG Impact
Over twelve years, our relationship with City Schools has been built on collaboration, continuous improvement, and a shared focus on environmental responsibility. During our partnership, we worked to develop the dining spaces, ensuring that sustainability considerations were embedded into projects at every stage, whilst ensuring that environmental priorities supported the broader aims of the project and the needs of the school community.
Carbon Awareness & Responsible Menu Development
A key focus has been helping students make informed, environmentally conscious choices. Every dish on the menu is scored in a way that supports awareness of carbon impact, and regular reviews allow the team and school to track progress and adapt dishes in line with evolving sustainability goals. This collaborative, data-aware approach has supported year-on-year improvement and strengthened understanding of how food choices relate to environmental outcomes.
Food Waste Reduction & Smarter Resource Use
Food waste management has been an important part of the school’s sustainability journey. By monitoring waste patterns and reviewing them with the school, we have been able to make adjustments that reduce unnecessary production and support more efficient use of resources. One example includes the introduction of a circular waste initiative at the girls’ school, where plate waste is repurposed to support onsite growing projects, turning waste into a meaningful learning and sustainability opportunity.
Packaging Reduction & Responsible Materials
Working together, we carried out a review of disposables across the school, significantly reducing reliance on single-use items. Where packaging is still required, responsible sourcing is prioritised. The focus remains firmly on reduction first, ensuring choices support both environmental and educational goals.
Pupil Engagement & Education
Pupil involvement is central to the partnership’s impact. Our teams meet regularly with the school’s Eco Groups, collaborating on the “One Change a Month” initiative to encourage student voice and embed sustainable thinking into everyday school life. These sessions help build understanding, empower pupils, and integrate sustainability into the school’s food culture.
