At The British School of Brussels (BSB), the cafeteria is of course our main location for enjoying a delicious lunch but it is also a vital hub; a meeting place where healthy eating and community spirit come together. It is a place of such importance that it features prominently in BSB’s campus development plan, where a reimagined state-of-the-art dining area will replace the current building, allowing everyone to enjoy a new holistic, community-based experience at mealtimes.
Behind the scenes, Evelyn, the head of catering and cafeteria operations, has been working on her own transformation of this space for nearly three decades. Her journey from dishwasher to leader is a testament to hard work, determination, and the vital role of our kitchen staff in promoting a healthy lifestyle for students.
As part of the BSB Futures initiative – a programme designed to help students explore career pathways – Evelyn shared invaluable insights during an interview with Laura, one of our BSB Futures student captains.
Here Laura writes about Evelyn’s journey at the school and her commitment to providing us all with nutritious and healthy food. Her story serves as a reminder that success is built on determination and hard work.
Evelyn joined BSB 27 years ago as part of the cleaning team. Within two years, she transitioned into the school’s kitchens, where she began washing dishes. Her dedication caught the attention of her then-manager, who encouraged her to pursue full-time work with Sodexo, BSB’s catering partner. Determined to grow, Evelyn attended evening school and earned a degree in cooking. Over the years, she climbed the ranks, eventually taking charge of kitchen operations.
Today, Evelyn oversees an intricate web of responsibilities: managing stock orders, supervising her team, handling administrative tasks like payroll and billing, and ensuring that every meal served meets the high standards of BSB. Her rise from dishwasher to head of catering exemplifies resilience and perseverance – a story that inspires both staff and students alike.
BSB places a strong emphasis on promoting healthy eating habits among students. The cafeteria serves freshly prepared meals that cater to diverse dietary preferences, all designed to meet nutritional needs while fostering sustainable practices. Evelyn plays a pivotal role in ensuring these meals align with BSB’s commitment to balanced diets and environmental care.
The school’s menu is published weekly with detailed allergy information, offering choices such as hot meals (including vegetarian options), salads, sandwiches, baked potatoes, and snacks. This approach reflects broader initiatives like the EU School Scheme, which encourages children across Europe to adopt healthy eating habits through educational activities and nutritious food distribution.
BSB also integrates food education into its curriculum by raising awareness about sustainable practices and locally sourced ingredients. Evelyn’s leadership ensures that these values are reflected in every meal served at the cafeteria.
During the interview for International Women’s Day in March, Evelyn shared her experiences working in a male-dominated field. She acknowledged facing challenges from male chefs who struggled with her leadership role but emphasised that it is their responsibility to adapt rather than hers. Her ability to overcome these obstacles has fostered a strong team dynamic within the kitchen.
Evelyn’s advice for aspiring chefs is simple yet profound: “Start at the bottom.” She believes that beginning with foundational tasks enables future leaders to understand the demands of every role in catering. Her own journey – from washing dishes to managing operations – illustrates how this approach builds both technical skills and empathy for team members.
When asked about cooking on a budget, Evelyn offered timeless advice: soup is an affordable and nourishing option. With just an onion, leek, and celery, anyone can create a hearty meal – a tip especially useful for university-bound students looking to save money without sacrificing nutrition.
Evelyn’s contributions extend beyond the kitchen. Her dedication ensures that lunchtime at BSB is not only nutritious but also enjoyable – a time for students to recharge and connect with friends. Her efforts embody BSB’s mission to provide an enriching educational experience that prioritises health and well-being.
The entire BSB community is grateful for Evelyn’s unwavering commitment to making lunchtimes memorable and meaningful. She truly is one of our unsung heroes – a cornerstone of our school’s vibrant culture and dedication to healthy living.
Interested in joining the BSB community? Please contact our Admissions team for more details.