Surrey County Council secures future of Twelve15 school meal service through agreement with HCL 

Surrey County Council has reached a Heads of Terms agreement with Hertfordshire Catering Limited (HCL), a leading education catering provider, to ensure the continued delivery of high-quality school meals for children across Surrey. The move safeguards the well-respected Twelve15 service following the Council’s recent consultation, which considered options for the future of the service.  

The Twelve15 service has long been recognised for its commitment to nutritious meals, strong operational standards and dedicated staff. Surrey County Council has worked closely with HCL to ensure these strengths are protected and carried forward. The agreement means that from 1 September 2026, HCL will take over delivery of the service, retaining existing Twelve15 employees and continuing to operate under the respected Twelve15 brand. 

This approach ensures minimal disruption for schools, families and children while providing a sustainable, long-term solution. By partnering with HCL, a not-for-profit organisation with shared values around food quality, local employment and child wellbeing, continuity and stability has been secured for more than 100 schools. 

Councillor David Lewis, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, said: “We are pleased to have reached this agreement with HCL, which ensures that children in Surrey will continue to receive high-quality, nutritious meals every day. HCL’s expertise and alignment with our values make them the ideal partner, safeguarding the future of the service and protecting the jobs of our dedicated staff”.  

HCL CEO John Want said: “We are delighted to be taking the Twelve15 service forward and to welcome its talented team into the HCL family. Our commitment is to maintain the high standards Surrey schools expect while supporting the continued growth and success of the service.” 

Surrey County Council will work closely with HCL and schools in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition and to support staff throughout the process.