Every day around six o’clock, the lights flicker on in our school’s cafeteria, and the team swings into action. The morning begins with baking fresh rolls, pretzels, and brewing coffee – key ingredients to kickstart a busy school day. By 7:00, the team prepares sandwiches, paninis, and their famous homemade hot dogs, all made fresh daily.
Mrs. Düsterbeck, who has been with the school for 11 years, leads the charge in the kitchen and ensures the day runs smoothly. She leads the preparation of every meal, using mostly fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Her tasks also include preparing lunch plans and double-checking that all ingredients have been ordered and have arrived in good condition. By 9:30 the energy kicks into high gear. At 9:30 and again at 10:30, the Kiosk opens, offering quick bites, while lunchtime officially starts at 11:50, serving around 420 students and staff daily.
Favorite meals? Schnitzel, currywurst, burgers, and pasta are big hits on the menu, but new dishes are introduced every month. All meals are prepared right in the school’s kitchen, ensuring freshness and quality for students of all ages. Much of what is served is sourced locally, supporting regional suppliers and emphasizing sustainability. One of the team’s biggest challenges is ensuring that every student – from the youngest EY learners to the seniors – finds something they enjoy and that these meals appeal to our school’s wide range of nationalities.
For Mrs. Düsterbeck, it’s the team and the dynamic pace that makes her love what she does. “The team makes the job so much fun, and I like the fast-paced environment,” she says with a smile. With seven employees on the team, four of whom work in the kitchen, they run like a well-oiled machine, ensuring that every day is a success.
Students and parents can test our Hot Lunch program without registering by purchasing Lunch test vouchers. These vouchers are available once per semester, allowing families to experience the fresh, delicious meals firsthand. The menus for the current and the following month are always available on our website, making it easy for families to stay informed about what’s being served.
