Dolce Expands Its Secondary School Catering Offer to Support Teen Health and Choice

Dolce has expanded its secondary school catering offer to better meet the evolving needs of teenage pupils, focusing on nutrition, variety, and flexibility. This expansion reflects the company’s dedication to improving the dining experience for older pupils, offering meals that support their development and empower them to make healthier choices throughout the school day. As pupils move into secondary school, their tastes become more defined and their daily routines more demanding. Dolce recognizes that catering for teenagers means understanding their preferences, offering flexibility, and creating an environment where healthy eating is not only encouraged but also embraced.

Enhanced Menu Options

The enhanced catering offer includes new menus, improved service formats, and a focus on pupil voice. The updated menus feature a broader selection of dishes inspired by global cuisines, including street food-style meals, lighter grab-and-go options, and a greater range of vegetarian and plant-based meals. Every item is designed to appeal to teenagers while still delivering the balance of nutrients needed to support energy levels, concentration, and growth during these vital years. A spokesperson for Dolce said, “Teenagers are at a unique stage in life where independence becomes important, and that includes the food they choose.

We’ve listened to pupils and schools to develop a catering offer that reflects their lifestyle, supports their health, and gives them the variety they’re asking for.” As part of the expansion, Dolce has invested in improved kitchen equipment and service areas within schools, making it easier to deliver meals quickly during busy lunch breaks. The new layout options are designed to reduce queues and improve the overall dining experience, encouraging more pupils to choose school meals over less nutritious alternatives. The company has also refined its use of technology. Pupils can pre-order meals via Dolce’s online platform, which offers clear labelling of ingredients, allergens, and nutritional information.

Teen-Friendly Dining

This transparency allows pupils to make informed choices and supports those with specific dietary needs or preferences. Increased portion size options are also being introduced for older pupils who have greater energy demands. Whether it’s after a morning of physical education or before an afternoon exam, Dolce aims to ensure pupils are properly fuelled for every part of the school day. The new menus offer flexibility while maintaining a strong focus on balanced meals. Feedback from secondary schools already trialing the expanded offer has been encouraging.

Staff have reported improved pupil engagement and satisfaction, while meal uptake has seen noticeable growth. Pupils appreciate having more autonomy over what they eat, and schools benefit from a trusted catering partner who adapts to their unique environment. Dolce’s commitment to sustainability remains central to its service. The expanded offer continues to priorities fresh, locally sourced ingredients and responsible supply chains. Reusable packaging and waste reduction strategies are also being implemented across more sites as part of the company’s broader environmental goals. The company continues to support schools in their health and wellbeing initiatives, working alongside pastoral teams and school leaders to promote healthy eating messages.

Improved School Catering

In-school campaigns, themed menus, and food education activities form part of Dolce’s wider mission to inspire better choices and encourage lifelong healthy habits. The spokesperson added, “Secondary school pupils need more than just food—they need options that suit their busy lives and developing tastes. We’ve designed our expanded offer to give them variety without compromising on nutrition, all while keeping things quick and accessible.” Dolce has long been known for its ability to deliver tailored catering solutions to schools across the UK.

This latest development underlines the company’s ongoing investment in the school food sector and its determination to lead with innovation, care, and collaboration. With the expansion of its secondary school catering offer, Dolce continues to respond to the real needs of schools, pupils, and families. It marks another step forward in supporting young people through thoughtful, high-quality school meals that are built around choice, health, and enjoyment.

About Us

At Dolce, we are dedicated to providing exceptional catering services tailored specifically for educational institutions. With a focus on nutrition and sustainability, we create delicious and balanced meals that support the health and well-being of students. Our menus are crafted using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and we implement eco-friendly practices to minimise our environmental impact. Committed to excellence, our team of skilled chefs and nutritionists works closely with schools to deliver meals that are both nutritious and appealing. We believe in fostering healthy eating habits and educating students.