An eight-year extension granted to Independents by Sodexo from next year will mean the contract will hit a landmark length of 50 years in 2024.
Bursar Chris Way said the head teacher and governors were unanimous in their decision and he had a ringing endorsement for catering manager Sonia Humphries.
“It’s not just the quality of the food; it’s about the personal service,” Chris said. “Sonia is always available and will consider everything we want to do whether at short notice or long notice.
“That’s an absolute joy for me,” he continued. “I have been here for just over three years; it’s been fantastic service and I look forward to it continuing.”
Sonia, who leads an all-female team of 14 at the college, said news of the contract extension was welcome after a turbulent spell when budgets had been cut as the economic downturn saw pupil numbers drop from over 500 to 285.
Tettenhall College caters for day and boarding pupils aged between two and 18 and Independents by Sodexo provides a daily breakfast, lunch, evening meal and supper service.
Part of the new agreement will see investment in refurbishing the existing Café 6 outlet for sixth formers into a modern coffee shop.
Sonia has worked for the independents schools business since 2001, and has also worked in commercial education but began in the business and industry sector with predecessor company Gardner Merchant in 1987.
“When we have a function we get our heads together with our cookbooks and try to do something a bit different,” Sonia explained.
Colleague Jan Small said it was “fantastic” news about the contract extension.
Jan works 12-7pm Monday to Friday, starting with the lunchtime food service and then helping in the kitchen. “It’s a good place to work,” she said. “I just love my job”.
Posted by Independents
