PKL shortlisted for Project of the Year for transforming catering provision at Kitebrook Preparatory School

Cheltenham, May 2nd 2025

PKL, a Lowe Rental company, leaders in the supply of temporary and permanent kitchens and catering equipment for rental is delighted to announce it has been shortlisted for Project of the Year – Education (Early Years and Primary) at the Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Awards.

Launched in 2023, the MMC Awards have quickly become a benchmark for excellence in modern construction. With 19 categories, the awards celebrate outstanding achievements in architectural practice, manufacturing, innovation, and project delivery across key sectors such as education, healthcare, and commercial development.

PKL has been nominated for its transformative project for Kitebrook Preparatory School, a co-educational and boarding school for 3-13 year olds. With a focus on catering provision, Kitebrook wanted a new space that could serve as a teaching classroom, a kitchen for chefs to produce high-quality farm to fork meals and a dining area for lunchtime meals. PKL’s Modular Café and Dining facility was the perfect solution for all these requirements.

PKL designed and delivered a bespoke modular restaurant and dining facility to enhance mealtime experience and support the school’s growing needs. The modular approach allowed for rapid deployment with minimal disruption to school operations, while providing a high-quality, future-ready facility tailored to the school’s specific needs. PKL provided a fully managed service throughout, from initial consultation and design to installation and post-handover support, demonstrating the company’s commitment to offering expert guidance and turnkey delivery, regardless of procurement route.

It’s a service that Bennjamyn Smith, Headmaster at Kitebrook Preparatory School has high praise for, commenting:

“The on-going support that PKL continued to offer us throughout the process, from any snagging issues we had, to advice on equipment set-up and layout, has been a very worthwhile experience. PKL is a company we have really enjoyed working with.”

By repurposing unused playground space and employing a timber‐clad modular structure, PKL reduced the environmental footprint and maximised resource efficiency. On-site assembly was completed in just three days to minimise disruption, reflecting PKL’s commitment to efficient, eco-friendly construction methods.

The new restaurant has transformed lunch service at the school, enabling three distinct sittings. Catering to lower school pupils with served meals, while the older students enjoy the freedom to select from a varied menu at the servery counter.

PKL’s modular restaurant and kitchen solutions are proving a game-changer for the education sector, providing schools with adaptable, high-quality facilities that support both pupil experience and operational efficiency.

PKL Shortlisted for Project of the Year at 2025 MMC Awards for Transforming Catering at Kitebrook Preparatory School

Lucy Thornton, Technical Sales Manager at PKL, commented:

“We’re thrilled to see the Kitebrook project recognised by the MMC Awards. Working closely with the school allowed us to develop a solution that was perfectly suited to its operational needs, delivered with speed, safety, and minimal disruption. It’s a great example of how modern methods of construction can deliver real impact in education.”

Karen Rumsey, Chief Operating Officer at Lowe Rental Corporation, added:

“Being shortlisted for the MMC Awards is a wonderful recognition of the dedication and creativity our team brings to every project. PKL’s consultative approach and commitment to excellence make us a trusted partner, not just a provider. I’m incredibly proud of what the team has achieved at Kitebrook—this project truly showcases the power of modular solutions in shaping modern, future-ready educational spaces.”

The MMC Awards will take place on 8th May 2025 at The Grand Hotel Birmingham.

About PKL, A Lowe Rental Company

PKL are leaders in the supply of temporary and permanent kitchens, catering equipment and cold rooms for rental. With over 35 years of expertise, PKL are renowned for delivering large scale kitchens and bespoke solutions to serve a diverse range of sectors, including events, education, healthcare, military, and the prison service. Supporting client needs for everything from short-term rental for immediate and temporary event requirements to project based rental for planned refurbishments and emergency replacements. Their flexible, best-in-class kitchens and catering equipment are designed to meet the unique demands of each client, ensuring reliable, high-quality service in both critical and planned situations.

A part of Lowe Rental Corporation, the global leader of sustainable rental services, PKL operates within a diversified portfolio of brands empowering customers with innovative solutions to achieve commercial success, operational excellence, and sustainable achievements.

Visit https://www.pkl.co.uk/ for more information.