It’s safe to say that last week has tested us all. With temperatures soaring above 30 degrees during the recent heatwave, classrooms, offices and corridors alike have felt the strain, and even the simplest of tasks has required extra effort and resilience.
Yet spare a thought for those who have been working at the very heart of the heat: our incredible catering team.
While many of us have sought shade, fans or a welcome breeze through an open window, our catering staff have been working in kitchens made even hotter by ovens, hobs and constant activity. Despite the challenging conditions, they have shown remarkable determination and teamwork, continuing to provide meals, snacks and refreshments for pupils, staff and visitors throughout the week.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. As a school community, we are enormously grateful for their commitment, positivity and perseverance during such an uncomfortable spell. They have quite simply kept the school going.
Catering Managers, Miss Morley and Mrs Billings, shared words that perfectly capture both the challenge and the spirit of the team: “We just want to take a minute to show some appreciation for the catering team at Penwortham Priory Academy for getting through this week. It's been hot outside but it's been even hotter in the kitchen; we have survived on ice pops and frozen water in front of fans! We’ve even kept the pupils refreshed with frozen oranges at break and lunch!”
It is this dedication and sense of community that make our catering team so special. They are more than just a team providing meals; they are a vital and valued part of school life, always going the extra mile to support everyone around them.
As we (hopefully!) look ahead to slightly cooler days, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to every member of the catering team. Your resilience, teamwork and good humour during this heatwave have been truly outstanding.
We are proud to have such a fantastic team at the heart of our school.