Four Bristol secondary schools have become the first in the city to receive a level of recognition for providing healthy food.

Henbury School, Oasis Academy Brightstowe, Bedminster Down School and Orchard School Bristol were awarded the Silver Food for Life Catering Mark by the Soil Association.

The certificate provides independent endorsement that the schools are using fresh ingredients that are free from undesirable additives and trans fats, better for animal welfare, and comply with national nutrition standards.

For silver certification, at least 5 per cent of ingredients served must be organic.


BAM FM provides catering services to the four schools, along with two primary schools that also received the certificate – Filton Avenue Primary @Orchard Campus and St Nicholas of Tolentine School.

“We are very proud of this achievement which has taken a lot of work.”

We can now boast all the food we serve to children comes from local suppliers and that five per cent is organic.”

Claire Mansri

BAM FM Bristol catering services manager

BAM uses local suppliers A. David – for organic milk, fresh fruits and vegetables – and Charles Saunders, for Marine Stewardship Council certified fish, British Farm Assured meats and dry and frozen goods.

“Buying locally often means produce is fresher when you receive it,” said Mansri.

“It boosts the local economy and supports jobs. In fact, independent research has found that for every pound spent on Catering Mark Silver and Gold meals, three pounds is reinvested into the local economy.

“We have built strong local supply chain partnerships to deliver healthy, fresh food so children can make the best choices. It also helps children eat more seasonally and often eating less common varieties, which is more sustainable.”

BAM’s FM team is part of BAM Construct UK, which developed the two Gemini Buildings at Bristol’s Aztec West, and which is behind the new SimplyHealth Building and Winterbourne Academy.