‘I love to see the smiles on pupils’ faces’: Caterer honoured after 40 years of service

A caterer has been given a business award after 40 years of working in school catering.

Lorraine Burgess, operations manager at school and education catering company Chartwells has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to the industry.

Ms Burgess has been given the Long Service award, at a special ceremony at Henwick Primary School in Eltham.

She said: “I always knew I wanted to cook, as well as work with children, and this is the reason why I started my career in school catering 40 years ago.

“I love coming into work to see the smiles on the pupils’ faces, and it is a true blessing that I am able to serve these bright, shining stars nutritious, healthy meals every day.

“As I have grown in my role as a school caterer, it has been incredible to work with likeminded people to deliver exceptional quality food, education, and support to our pupils.

“It is an honour to be presented with this award. It is important for children of all ages to learn about healthy eating and we hope to inspire them to enjoy cooking throughout their lives.”

Lorraine also received a certificate, a thank you letter and a gift, to mark her incredible milestone.

Beginning her career as a frontline caterer, Lorraine has played a significant role in transforming school catering in Greenwich and the surrounding areas. 

In 2021, Lorraine was appointed to operations manager for Chartwells, and since then has been instrumental in delivering a programme that offers free lunch to pupils during the school holidays to ensure every child is given the opportunity to access healthy food.

This year’s programme is set to run again during the Easter and Summer holidays.

James Wilkie, head of operations, Chartwells: “Lorraine is a shining example of what makes our industry so great. She truly cares about the children we serve and goes above and beyond to fuel their learning.

“The school food sector has changed immeasurable since Lorraine first started working, with school food now packed with nutrition. 

“Thanks to the innovation of people like Lorraine, the industry has been able to make this positive step forward, as well as embracing and driving initiatives, such as the HAF programme.”

Pictured top: Lorraine Burgess with her award at the Henwick Primary School ceremony in Eltham (Picture: Chartwells)