Merton Council will procure a refreshed school meals catering contract to strengthen the provision of healthy, high-quality and sustainable food in the borough’s schools between 2026 and 2029.

Each school day, around 9,500 meals will be served to children across 34 primary schools and all three special schools in Merton, totalling approximately 1.8 million meals every year.

The new contract will be awarded in spring 2026 and will continue to ensure that pupils enjoy nutritious meals that support their wellbeing and ability to learn. Building on existing work, it will place a stronger focus on sustainability, with locally sourced ingredients to reduce food miles and more environmentally responsible packaging and waste management.

For the first time, all catering staff employed under the contract will be paid the London Living Wage or higher, in line with Merton Council’s status as an accredited Living Wage Employer.

Although providing school meals is not a statutory requirement, the council has chosen to continue offering a central catering contract to ensure schools and children benefit from consistent quality and value for money.

With all Merton schools rated Good or better by Ofsted and the council’s Children’s Services rated Outstanding, this decision continues the council’s progress in making Merton a great place for every child to live, learn and thrive.

Councillor Sally Kenny, Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, said:

Healthy, nutritious food plays a vital role in helping children learn, grow and achieve their full potential. This new contract award will ensure that thousands of Merton’s pupils enjoy high-quality meals every day, while also making real progress on sustainability and fair pay. I’m proud that we’re continuing to invest in our children and young people, and in the dedicated staff who support them.