Cookin' in Crooks

The Brentwood campus has welcomed us back with alternating bright sunshine, a January snowstorm, and the rainfall of an atmospheric river. As we engage with the depths of winter, Brentwood students are ready to embrace a seasonal change on campus. For many, this shift provides a much-needed reprieve from the demanding academic, athletic and artistic schedule in the Winter. 

Yet, amid the hustle, it’s essential to recognize the unsung heroes at Brentwood – those hard-working individuals behind the scenes who ensure our needs are met. We express our gratitude to the dedicated Food Service Team at Brentwood for their invaluable contributions. 

During every rainy day, throughout each long week, and at every Sunday Brunch, our Food Service Team has consistently been there for us. Their substantial contribution to the school is the key to our success: delicious and nutritious meals. They are thoroughly involved in the school. Brenn Smith, a valuable member of our Food Service Team, emphasized, “The campus relies heavily on us to cook healthy, good food, and I believe we deliver that every time with involvement and thought put into every meal.”

Multiple aspects contribute to every meal, involving many perspectives in their creation. Sustainability is a significant factor in these meals, with the Food Service Team collaborating with student clubs like BEAT (Brentwood Environmental Action Team) to create healthy and sustainable foods. Ruby S, Hope ‘25 along with Cleo K, Allard ‘25 and Tema BC, Hope ‘26, worked with Manager, Food Services, Mr Scott Sanderson, on a project for bringing sustainability into the kitchen. She says this about the experience “Something we learned from this project was the importance of communication amongst different systems in the school. This enabled us to gain empathy and understanding after learning what goes on behind the scenes and together we were able to craft a well-rounded and multifaceted solution.” 

Although the Food Service Team is amazing enough with all their hard work and dedication, they also love to work with student clubs to get feedback on their students’ favourite choices, including “Students’ Choice” meal selection. Elena F, Hope ’25, reflects on her experience in the SAC (Student Activities Committee), stating “Although I voted for a different choice than what was picked, I am still glad that I was able to be a part of something that contributes to the overall hospitality of the school.” In their club, they collectively voted on a cookie break for the entire campus to enjoy showcasing the collaborative decision-making process. 

It is an amazing thing to experience such an outstanding contribution to making the Brentwood students happy and comfortable. Luke O, Whittall ‘25, represents the sentiment of many of us when he emphatically states “The brunches are always 1000/10”. 

We love you!

Isabel H, Mack ‘25