Food

Mealtimes at Ken Prep are a highlight of the school day, reflecting our passion and commitment to providing the girls with exceptional food made fresh from locally sourced ingredients.

We take great care to produce healthy and nourishing food, ensuring our pupils are properly fuelled for their busy days. Alongside inspiring the girls to explore delicious and diverse dishes through regular themed days, we are dedicated to promoting healthy eating habits and balanced diets.

We work alongside the renowned catering company, Thomas Franks, under the guidance of our Head Chef, Darren Rumbelow. Our school menu is designed to be balanced, healthy and nutritious for the entire school community. Every day, there is a choice of courses available, including a vegetarian option and a range of salads. A snack is also provided each morning, with different options throughout the week.

Our catering team manages the dietary needs of every pupil, using a lanyard system to alert dining hall staff to girls with allergies and dietary requirements. Additionally, we maintain a nut-free environment across the whole school. 

Chef Darren’s background

“I have been a chef for the last 18 years and have experience working in various kitchen environments ranging from hotels and golf clubs right through to contract catering. I joined Thomas Franks in November 2021, where I was initially brought in as a relief chef manager before becoming a permanent chef manager. 

Throughout my career as a chef, the most challenging situation I have found myself in was organising and catering my wedding for 80 guests, this involved everything from setting tables to finishing the food off on the morning of my wedding. One of my catering highlights was working in a team to prepare and serve lunch to a party that included Michel Roux Senior, James Martin and Brian Turner.

I joined Ken Prep in September 2022, initially temporarily, however, I loved the role so much that I decided to make it permanent in January 2023.

I enjoy challenging myself through my cooking and try not to do the same thing twice. I love encouraging the Ken Prep girls to try something new and use this as a way to push myself and my team to continue providing the school community with exciting delicious and nutritious food.”