Jeanette Orrey was catering manager at St. Peter’s Primary School, East Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, for fourteen years. In 2000, rebelling against the poor quality of centrally supplied ingredients, she chose to bring catering at her school back in-house, sourcing as much local, organic and Fairtrade produce as possible – and all on a very tight budget.

She is also schools meals policy advisor to the Soil Association and travels around the country talking about what has been achieved at St. Peter’s and encouraging other school dinner ladies to implement Food For Life targets.

She has won numerous awards, including the Observer Food Award for ‘Person who has done the most for the food and drink industry’ in 2003. Jeanette has also won the the highly prestigious Glenfiddich Independent Spirit Award 2005, awarded at the judges’ discretion in recognition of a piece of work, or an individual, or a campaign thought to have made an outstanding contribution towards widening the understanding and appreciation of food and drink in Britain.

She lives in Nottingham with her husband, and has three sons. She enjoys watching Rugby Union, and cooking when she has the time.

‘Jeanette Orrey is an inspiration’ – Patrick Holden, Director of the Soil Association

‘Jeanette Orrey – about to become a legend in your children’s lunchtime’ – Fat Nation, BBC One