Carlton Academy Trust’s Director of Catering, Matt Nutter, has been recognised as one of the UK’s leading school food professionals after being shortlisted for the School Food Leader award at the Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards 2026.
Matt was named among the final three in his category from more than 700 nominations received across the awards’ six categories, following a rigorous national judging process.
The awards recognise individuals making an exceptional contribution to school food across the UK.
Matt’s place among the final three is a testament to his passion for transforming school food and his commitment to ensuring pupils across Carlton Academy Trust have access to nutritious, high-quality meals every day.
Working closely with catering teams across the Trust’s schools, Matt has led continual improvements to menus, championed healthy eating and created dining experiences that encourage pupils to enjoy freshly prepared food.
Although the national award was ultimately presented to another nominee, being recognised as one of the UK’s top three School Food Leaders is an outstanding achievement and reflects the exceptional work taking place across the Trust.
Everyone at Carlton Academy Trust congratulates Matt on this well-deserved national recognition and thanks him for his continued dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of our pupils through great school food.
