Tracy Nwabia, 53, from Rotherhithe, has been crowned School Chef Champion at the 2026 Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards for her pioneering meat-free menu at Spa School in Bermondsey, one of Britain's largest state schools for children with autism. The catering manager's switch to vegetarian meals has been so successful that many pupils have abandoned packed lunches in favor of her hot meals.
From washing up to award-winning chef
Nwabia, a mother of five, started at the school 13 years ago doing the washing up and now leads the kitchen. She said: "I'm really thrilled that I've made a big difference to the children's wellbeing here. I've learned a lot." The school went meat-free after a consultation with parents that included a tasting menu.
The decision was driven by two factors: environmental concerns and budget constraints. Nwabia explained: "The quality of meat that we could afford wasn't fantastic and we thought it'd be much better to really invest in high-quality vegetables and other proteins." She noted that while costs haven't dropped significantly, "what we buy now is better quality."
Catering to autistic students' needs
Many of the autistic children have specific eating habits, such as preferring plain foods, avoiding food touching, or favoring dry or wet textures. Nwabia works closely with staff to create individualized plans. Each day, two freshly made hot meals are offered, including barbecue corn fillets and red onion quiche.
She said: "I feel overwhelmed that I've helped so many students over the years and made a difference. Some of the children have come off packed lunches, and they're eating a full school dinner."
Tips for parents
Nwabia shared advice for getting children to eat vegetables: "It's all about adding the herbs, the spices, and it doesn't have to be boring. You can hide vegetables so the children don't know they're eating it. You can blend them." She recommends pasta bakes and highlights the popularity of her lentil and vegetable lasagne.
Staff member Georgina Quigley said: "Tracy has quite rightly earned an award for her work. Our parents have been incredibly proud, as have the pupils, and they were really proud to hear that Jamie Oliver was involved." The school held a special assembly to celebrate the award.
