Innovate has revamped facilities in three areas of the school, which currently has over 1,970 students. All have been designed to provide an increased menu choice, including a ‘World Food’ concept in one building. All have introduced an environment where both students and staff can relax or socialise.
The main kitchen servery is based in the Raynham Building and now includes a range of hot and cold meals, Teppan Grill for freshly made stir fries, hot chutes for ‘grab and go’ meals, plus sandwiches, paninis, salad bar and hot or cold drinks. Within the Elmslie Building is a secondary site, which carries a ‘World Food’ concept, while the third area is within the sixth-form common room and has been redesigned with a ‘coffee house’ feel.
Having been awarded the contract by George Abbot in mid-March, the team had just over two weeks to implement the refurbishment in the three serving areas. Julian Seymour, business manager of George Abbot, said: “In over a fortnight, Innovate delivered on everything they said they would. After the Easter break, our students returned and have been able to enjoy the brand new facilities.
"In fact, they haven’t stopped talking about it! There is a new buzz in the school and both students and staff are very positive about the choice of foods available. Student numbers have at least trebled since the launch and the number of staff using the facilities has also increased.”
Danny Moloney, executive Headteacher of George Abbot School added: “George Abbot School has a high academic reputation both within the county and nationally and we felt we owed it to the students and staff to refresh the dining facilities, to bring them up to modern standards. Innovate has completely transformed all three areas into modern cafes that wouldn’t look out of place on the high street. The range of food is excellent and the fact that it is freshly made here on site, every day, is an advantage. I’m pleased to say that Innovate has certainly exceeded our expectations.”