Food and Nutrition
Food and Nutrition at St Chris: A Vegetarian Ethos
Most visitors remark that one of St Chris’s defining features is its daytime vegetarian menu.
Our School has been vegetarian since the First World War brought in rationing and contributes to a healthy lifestyle for our students and staff. Our food is fresh and cosmopolitan, with a huge variety on the menu throughout the week. The menu is always being improved and updated and services all students with clearly labelled allergens and awareness of each students’ individual food requirements.
At St Chris, we believe that great food is not just about nourishment; our dining room is the hub of engagement across our school community, where students relax and catch up about their day, and staff debrief with each other. Therefore, it’s important to us that students’ dining experiences are highly anticipated.
The dining hall is always bustling with conversation because of this reason, however, when the bell is rung by a student, the hall falls silent until the student says “thank you”, then normality resumes. These pauses occur across the school, in Morning Talk (our version of assemblies), in classrooms, and in the Dining Hall. They occur when a student feels overwhelmed and needs a moment to be quiet and pause, and are respected by our entire school community. Our catering team are incredible, working as a unit to deliver outstanding breakfast, lunchtime, evening and weekend menus. Their services go beyond the ordinary, committed to providing delicious, nutritious, and exciting culinary experiences for every student.
The St Chris Kitchen
Step behind the scenes into the heart of our culinary world! Our kitchen is a hub of creativity and expertise, where our talented chefs craft a diverse range of dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary needs. From the sizzle of the pan to the aroma of freshly baked treats, the St Chris kitchen is a place where culinary magic happens daily. You can even smell the amazing flavours as you approach the Senior School reception!
Nutrition with a Dash of Innovation
At St Chris, we prioritize not only taste but also the nutritional value of our meals. Our dedicated catering team work together with our chefs to ensure that every dish is a perfect blend of flavour and health. Students are encouraged to make healthy eating choices, with a variety of mains available and an inviting salad bar.
Our menu is a celebration of diversity and taste. Each day, students can choose from a wide array of dishes inspired by global cuisines. Whether it's a hearty pasta dish, a flavourful curry, or a fresh salad, our menu is designed to tantalize taste buds and provide a culinary adventure for every palate.
Special Diets, Special Care
We understand that dietary requirements vary, and our chefs are here to accommodate every need. From vegetarian and vegan options to gluten-free and allergen-friendly choices, our commitment to inclusivity ensures that every student can enjoy a meal that suits their preferences and requirements.
Farm to Fork: Local and Sustainable
St Chris is not just about food; it's about responsible choices. We source ingredients locally, supporting our community's farmers and reducing our carbon footprint. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of our culinary offerings, making each meal a step towards a greener and more eco-conscious future.
Some of our produce, including the rhubarb in our highly anticipated rhubarb crumble, is grown on our estate, and picked by students.
Engaging Dining Spaces: More Than Just a Meal
Dining at St Chris is not just about eating; it's an experience. Our dining spaces are designed to be inviting and inclusive, encouraging students to connect over a meal. The lively atmosphere enhances the sense of community, turning each mealtime into a social event where friendships are forged and memories are made.
Catering Popularity
At St Chris, our catering focuses around creating memorable experiences, promoting healthy choices, and fostering a sense of community around the dining table, which is why over 75% of students opt for School dinners.