School meals in Stoke-on-Trent will be delivered by external providers, which Stoke-on-Trent City Council say are 'offering schools better value for money'.

The council is seeking to end its optional catering service to schools following an external independent review which concluded that the service is unlikely to become financially self-sustaining in the future.

A spokesperson for Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: "School catering is a discretionary service, and the council is now following several authorities across the UK that have taken similar decisions in response to rising costs and a more competitive market.

"High inflation and changing industry conditions mean that external providers are now better placed to deliver the service in a cost-effective way."

Following engagement with several established operators through a competitive process, the council has identified Chartwells as the preferred successor provider for schools that wish to take up the offer.

Schools and academy trusts will remain free to choose their own supplier, but the council has recommended Chartwells following engagement with several operators through a 'competitive process'.

The council explained that Chartwells already provides millions of meals to schools nationwide and has a strong track record in meeting school food standards with a high-quality, nutritious offer.

They also anticipate that staff will transfer either to Chartwells where contracts are retained or to another operator if the schools decide to choose an alternative new operator, in line with TUPE legislation.

Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for finance, anti-poverty and corporate services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: "City Catering has served our schools well for many years, but rising costs and stronger competition mean it is no longer possible to run the service without significant subsidies.

"Schools and academy trusts can choose their own provider, and City Catering has been losing work as we have struggled to keep prices down.

"The independent review made it clear that meal prices would have needed to rise by more than a third to break even. That would not have been fair on schools or families. Moving to an external provider will help keep costs down and give schools better value for money.

"We will support schools and staff throughout this process to make sure the transition is safe, steady and focused on what matters most — good meals for children."

The council will now begin engagement with schools, staff and the preferred provider to agree next steps and ensure continuity of service.