Sodexo to train young offenders at new secure school

Sodexo has secured a catering and training contract with Oasis Restore, the UK’s first purpose-built secure school for detained children and young people.

 

Oasis Restore was appointed by the Ministry of Justice to develop England’s first secure academy trust for young offenders.

 

The organisation is due to welcome its first students in the coming weeks.

 

The partnership between Sodexo and school meals partner Oasis was established over 13 years ago, with the foodservice provider still serving breakfast, morning break and lunch to more than 28,000 students across the group’s 49 schools.

 

At Oasis Restore, Sodexo will offer both daily meals and culinary skills training to students so that they can widen their employment prospects once they leave.

 

They will also receive lessons in budget management and advice on how to prepare their own food.

 

Steve Hawkins, managing director for schools at Sodexo, said: “This is a unique opportunity to create a positive impact on the lives of young people who are in need of support. We believe that providing nutritious meals, culinary training and life skills education can make a real difference in their journey toward a brighter future.”

 

Steve Chalke, founder of Oasis, added: "We have worked with [Sodexo] for over 13 years and their expertise in providing nutritious and appetising meals, combined with their commitment to culinary education, is completely aligned with our vision for Oasis Restore.”

 

Terms of the partnership were not disclosed.