Catering

Here at RSFC, we proudly hold a 5-star Food Hygiene rating awarded by the Food Standards Agency. This outstanding recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering safe, high-quality food to our customers and guests.

Eligibility for free meals is based on an assessment of household income. If you or your parents/carers are in receipt of one or more of the following benefits, you may be eligible for free meals:

• Universal Credit
• Income Support (IS).
• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (IBJSA).
• An income-related employment and support allowance.
• Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
• The guaranteed element of State Pension Credit.
• Working Tax Credit during the 4 weeks immediately after your employment finished.

All our catering staff have received Allergen Awareness training in line with Natasha's Law.

Natasha’s Law, introduced in October 2021, is landmark regulation that has transformed food allergen labelling in the UK.

Natasha’s Law requires all pre-packed foods for direct sale (PPDS) – food made on the premises and packaged for sale, such as sandwiches, salads and cakes - to display a full ingredients list with the top 14 allergens clearly highlighted. The introduction of Natasha’s Law closed a dangerous loophole in food safety, and the greater transparency it provides means people in the UK living with food allergies can have greater confidence that the foods they buy are safe to eat.

Please let your student's SPDL know if they have any known food allergies.

At RSFC, we offer hands-on cooking classes designed to equip students with essential culinary skills. Our programme teaches students how to prepare, cook, and plan efficient, nutritious meals - perfect for those preparing to live in university halls or on their own. This opportunity helps students build confidence in the kitchen while promoting healthy eating habits, ensuring they’re ready for independent living and academic success.

At RSFC, our menus and food options are thoughtfully designed around a well-balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients. While keeping up with current food trends, we carefully plan each menu to promote healthy eating because we believe it’s key to our students’ wellbeing, growth, and success. A balanced diet not only supports physical health but also boosts concentration, memory, and energy - crucial skills for learning and thriving at school.

Why Healthy Eating Matters
Eating well helps students stay alert and focused during lessons and maintain steady energy throughout the day. It also supports the development of strong bones and muscles, boosts the immune system, and helps students develop positive habits that can last a lifetime.

Building a Balanced Meal
A healthy meal should include a variety of food groups. Fruit and vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre, and students should aim for at least five portions a day. Starchy foods such as wholemeal bread, rice, pasta, or potatoes provide energy, while protein from sources like meat, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, or vegetarian/vegan alternatives supports growth and repair. Dairy or dairy alternatives, including milk, cheese, or yoghurt, provide calcium and protein. Finally, water and milk are the best choices for staying hydrated.

Healthy Food Swaps
Small changes can make a big difference. For example, swapping white bread for wholemeal bread increases fibre intake, and replacing crisps with plain popcorn, rice cakes, or vegetable sticks provides healthier snacking options. Sugary drinks can be swapped for water or milk, chocolate bars for fruit, yoghurt, or small cereal bars, and fried foods for grilled, baked, or steamed alternatives.

Encouraging Positive Habits
At RSFC, we encourage students to try a wide variety of foods and flavours and to share mealtimes with friends, making healthy eating both social and enjoyable. We also support students in making mindful choices about snacks and drinks. By promoting healthy eating both in school and at home, we aim to give every student the best chance to feel their best, learn effectively, and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

At RSFC, we’re proud to be a plastic-free community committed to sustainability. All our pre-packed food containers are made from recycled plant materials, and we provide wooden cutlery sourced from responsibly managed forests. Together, we’re making a positive impact on our planet.

All our waste is removed from the college by Kenny Waste who sort and recycle 99% of our waste products, meaning when you put your rubbish into a bin, it's recycled!