Chartwells secures catering contracts with five Halliard Trust schools

Education catering provider Chartwells has secured contracts with five schools in the Halliard Trust, expanding its footprint in Cheshire.

The five schools include Broken Cross Primary Academy and Nursery, Adlington Primary School, Gawsworth Primary School, Nether Alderley Primary School and Whirley Primary School.

The new agreements follow the closure of the schools’ previous council-run meal service in April 2025. 

The Halliard Trust selected Chartwells for its focus on “pupil wellbeing and its track record in delivering tailored food services”.

Chartwells stated that the new partnership had already delivered immediate benefits, with pupils having access to “varied” and “nutritious” menus.

The company also offers curriculum-linked food education workshops under its Beyond the Chartwells Kitchen initiative, aimed at improving children’s understanding of nutrition and sustainability.

Lisa Priestley, Chartwells managing director, said: “We are proud to support the Halliard Trust and deliver a service that not only meets high operational standards but also contributes meaningfully to pupil wellbeing and educational outcomes.

“We remain committed to supporting the long-term success of the education catering sector, and to working in partnership with our growing number of partner schools to nourish learning through nutritious food and impactful food education.”

Donna Lewis, Broken Cross headteacher, added: “We’re really pleased with how smoothly the transition to Chartwells has gone. The support from our Trust’s central team has been invaluable in ensuring everything was in place from day one.

“For many of our children, particularly those entitled to free school meals, a hot, nutritious lunch is vital – and it’s reassuring to know they’re receiving high-quality meals in a welcoming environment.”