The project involved a comprehensive upgrade of the existing kitchen, canteen, and back-of-house spaces to improve operational efficiency, user experience, and compliance with current standards.
The scope included a full refurbishment of the commercial kitchen, reconfiguration of staff canteen areas, and the introduction of an enhanced external delivery access route.
Working closely with the client, Barker developed a comprehensive solution that addressed long-standing issues with capacity, circulation, and compliance.
The team undertook a full redesign of the kitchen to improve workflow efficiency, upgraded all M&E systems, modernised the canteen to enhance comfort and flow, and reorganised back-of-house spaces, including storage, welfare areas, and dishwashing zones.
A new external delivery access ramp and steps were introduced to support safer, more efficient logistics, while a new student servery section was added to improve the speed, clarity, and overall quality of the student dining experience.
Together, these interventions provided a modern, compliant, and future-ready catering environment tailored to the client’s operational needs.
The challenges were to balance time and cost and meet client expectations by transforming a large school kitchen during a live school site.
The main contractor (Cadon Building Services) was flexible, attentive to client needs, and went the extra mile to ensure a smooth delivery.
Communication flowed seamlessly, and as a combined effort, all client requirements were met.
The project was completed on programme and well within budget. A quality finish was achieved by the main contractor, who went over and above to meet client expectations (as did Barker).
The school has seen a more efficient food service for the pupils and a better working environment for the staff.
“A VERY successful first day with our new kitchen and canteen area. Looked great, and all students were served within 15/20 minutes of lunch starting. Great stuff, thanks all.”
