Balham school chef wins Jamie Oliver Good School Food Award

Nathan Scarlett, 32, who works at Henry Cavendish Primary School in Balham and Streatham, was named Chef Champion at the Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards.

The award celebrates chefs who deliver nutritious food, ignite children’s curiosity about cooking, and make mealtimes a positive part of the school day.

Lorna Burg, director of business and finance at Henry Cavendish, said: "Nathan has brought energy and pride into our dining halls.

"The children don’t just enjoy the food - they’re inspired by it."

Affectionately known as "Chef Nathan", Mr Scarlett has reimagined school meals as a daily highlight, managing kitchens across both school sites and filling the dining experience with creativity and fun.

Under his guidance, even Taco Tuesdays become a learning opportunity, and Year 5 pupils have learned to fold Cornish pasties from scratch.

He also works closely with the school’s Meals Ambassadors, giving children from every class a voice in shaping the menu.

Since joining Henry Cavendish, Mr Scarlett has led cooking workshops, run food assemblies, and helped raise £12,000 for new ovens to ensure hot meals reach every child.

He has also spoken with MPs in Westminster about the challenges facing school food.

Despite financial pressures, he has secured a reputation for delivering "wholesome, nutritious and filling meals for every child, every day" through thoughtful planning and inventive cooking.

His efforts have won praise from celebrities and judges alike.

Mary Berry described him as: "Brilliant, inspiring, and full of heart".

Ellie Simmonds applauded how he has made food "exciting, educational and totally inclusive".

Jamie Oliver, who founded the awards, said: "Nathan’s not just feeding children, he’s fuelling their confidence, curiosity, and their sense of belonging.

"He’s an absolute superstar."

The Chef Champion Award honours those who make a difference not only in what’s served, but in the culture and confidence built around food.

Patrick Lucereau, marketing director at Tefal, which sponsored the award, added: "Congratulations to Chef Nathan on his remarkable achievement.

"We're thrilled to support his inspiring work with Tefal prizes and hope they continue to fuel his creativity and passion."