River Learning Trust Catering Showcase: Inspiring Innovation for School Catering Across the School Trust

On 18 November, the River Learning Trust (RLT) Procurement Team (Tracey Angio and Matt Warrington-Gallienne) hosted a vibrant and engaging Catering Showcase at the Rose Hill Central Offices in Oxford, bringing together representatives from 31 schools to explore the future of school food ahead of a major catering tender early next year (2026).

Four very different catering providers from global operators to specialists in pre-prepared frozen food were invited to present their catering models. This gave RLT schools a rare opportunity to compare a full spectrum of catering approaches, understand operational differences, and taste dishes designed specifically for both primary and secondary pupils.

A wide range of portion sizes and menu options were also demonstrated.

The agenda focused on what innovation looks like in outsourced catering, with providers sharing:

• Sustainability initiatives.
• Fresh thinking and creative menu ideas.
• Use of technology to streamline back office processes and reduce costs.
• How market data is used to support better value.
• Education sector case studies showcasing best practice.

Schools were encouraged to reflect on one key question: “What innovation would you like to see in your school’s catering service?”

As ensuring every child has access to nutritious meals is fundamental to all schools, this pre-market engagement event will help each school articulate their individual and unique priorities.

These insights will play a vital role in shaping the upcoming tender documentation and ensuring the final specification reflects the real needs and preferences of RLT pupils.

The day was energetic, insightful and hands-on, with excellent feedback confirming that the objectives were fully met.

Photos captured the RLT Procurement Team showcasing one of the four impressive food displays before school representatives sampled the dishes.

A fantastic day of bringing brilliant national and local suppliers together for a thoughtful discussion, and an engaged audience, helping shape the future of catering across the RLT.