School lunches

School lunches, snacks and the catering service at Parsons Green Prep

Parsons Green Prep has a lunchtime dining experience that truly reflects the school’s high standards, ethos and values. Mealtimes are a memorable part of the school day and our genuine passion for great food, using locally sourced ingredients and prepared fresh each day for the children to enjoy, is a priority. We recognise the importance of food to support the children’s wellbeing to maximising academic progress and the need for a balanced diet to provide the sustained energy involved in a busy school day. We encourage healthy eating and aim to inspire the children to explore flavourful and exciting dishes, combining a mixture of authentic flavours and classic home comforts.

This exceptional catering provision is achieved in our purpose-built kitchen and by working in partnership with the renowned catering company Thomas Franks. Our Chef, Elena Patino, and her catering team, take extra care to manage the dietary needs of each pupil. Our commitment to healthy choices is led by the Thomas Franks Group Director of Nutrition and Wellbeing, who works alongside the Chef and school team to create a fully balanced, healthy and nutritious menu to suit the whole school community. Parents are occasionally invited to sample lunch and staff are on hand to support with table manners and provide a family dining experience. Our children have a say in the development of the menus and service, with the Food Committee representatives from Reception to Year 6 seeking the views of the school community to inform decisions regarding the food we provide for lunch and snacks.

Please take the opportunity to read Chef Elena’s background, our three-week rotating menus and our partnership brochure with Thomas Franks below.

Elena Patino – Catering Manager and Chef

‘I’ve been passionate about cooking for over 15 years. I started my catering career in 2009 as a catering assistant in various private schools across London. This journey led me to join Thomas Franks in 2019, where I have been both encouraged and allowed to train and grow from a catering assistant through the ranks to a chef manager. Throughout my career I’ve enjoyed creating nutritious meals that pupils love, focusing on fresh produce that make lunchtimes something they look forward to.

One of my proudest moments was being awarded Apprentice Of The Year at the Thomas Franks People Awards. This recognition reflected my dedication and has given me the opportunity to continue learning and improving within the business. The chef’s masterclasses I have been able to attend throughout my training help me to bring even more creativity and expertise to the meals I prepare. I am really excited to be joining Parsons Green Prep so I can continue to expand my knowledge and bring joy to mealtimes for the pupils and the staff.’