Lincoln Minster School proudly celebrates Caron Harrison’s 40 years of service, marking four decades of passion, dedication and delicious meals.
Caron Harrison, our dedicated Catering Manager, joined the school back in 1985, when it was still known as St Joseph’s Convent School. This then went on to be one of the schools that merged to form the newly established Lincoln Minster School in 1996.
Recalling her very first day, Caron laughed as she shared:“I had nothing in the kitchen! The nuns who had been running St Joseph’s took everything when they left. I only had two saucepans and a baking tray!”
From those humble beginnings, Caron has gone on to make an incredible contribution to the school’s catering over the past four decades. At its peak in 2006, she and her team were preparing meals for over 750 students each day, and in 2019, their hard work was recognised when they won the Select Lincolnshire Food, Drink & Hospitality Award.
Caron’s connection to the school runs deep. Not only has she nourished generations of students, many of whom have grown up, had children and returned to Lincoln Minster, but her own children, Scott and Sarah, also attended the school.
Reflecting on her career, Caron said:“It’s extremely rewarding feeding those tiny children who have grown up to be adults with children of their own now attending the school. It’s amazing to see what they’ve gone on to achieve.”
Her passion for food and dedication to her craft have also earned her recognition beyond the school. In 2023, Caron was named a finalist for Food Champion at the Lincolnshire Education Awards.
When asked how she has stayed motivated over such an impressive career, Caron credited her love for what she does and the people she works with:“I’ve always been passionate about food! But it’s really down to my team, I’m so proud of them. They’re the ones who make it all happen.”
Charlotte Bridgen, Deputy Head, expressed her admiration by saying:"Caron is truly one in a million and has a heart of gold. She cares for every child and staff member in this school as if they were her own. It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to work alongside her. A heartfelt thank you from everyone in the community for all the breakfasts, snacks, lunches, dinners, and canapés you have prepared over the last 40 years! We are all so fortunate to have you!"
From two saucepans and a baking tray to an award-winning kitchen, Caron’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
Thank you Caron for your 40 years of dedication, passion and service to the Lincoln Minster School community.