Chartwells has secured a three-year contract with Isle of Wight Schools to provide nutritious meals to children and young people across the Island.
The contract was awarded following a competitive tender process.
Beginning in September 2026, the new agreement will see Chartwells serve more than 4,000 meals a day to primary school pupils.
The education catering provider will also provide catering to 3,000 secondary and sixth form students across the Isle of Wight.
The partnership is underpinned by a dedicated Social Value Action Plan designed specifically for the local community.
Under the agreement, 100% of food purchasing will be through Island-based suppliers, including Island Foods and Medina.
The approach is intended to ensure investment stays within the local economy and supports the Island’s food ecosystem where possible.
Chartwells’ offer includes freshly prepared two-course meals that meet School Food Standards.
The service will also include a rolling three-week menu and tailored allergen-managed menus overseen by specialist nutrition teams.
Primary pupils will be served classic favourites including mac and cheese.
For secondary students, Chartwells will introduce a grab-and-go option designed to meet changing eating habits.
Sixth form menus will reflect high street food trends, aligning with the tastes and expectations of older students.
Well-loved dishes, including fish and chips served with peas, will continue to be served across all stages, ensuring pupils remain engaged with meals they enjoy.
Two new roles have also been introduced as part of the contract.
A Chef Ambassador will focus on engaging the community around food, while a Medical Diet Coordinator has been created in response to rising demand for allergen-centred menus.
To support its teams, Chartwells provides an employee wellbeing programme and career pathway opportunities, including apprenticeships.
The agreement reflects a wider focus on school meals that combine nutrition, pupil engagement, allergen management, local sourcing and social value.
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