A local school group mourns

“The Dubai British Schools Group, part of the Taaleem family of schools, are truly saddened to hear of the sudden death of Chef Gary Rhodes OBE. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and colleagues at this most tragic of times.

“Gary donated a great deal of his time, boundless energy and inspiration to develop a unique school dining experience that combined healthy, delicious food with social skills and mealtime etiquette at our Dubai British School Jumeirah Park (DBS JP).

“He and his team worked tirelessly stating that ‘We want the students at DBS JP to be happy and enjoy their lunch. That’s what eating is all about; lunch should be a social gathering and an occasion. Our aim is to make children look forward to the next day’s meal, and to bring together friends in a family-style service with great conversation across the table.’ This, he certainly achieved, and his concept and legacy has lived on and his vision has been lauded by many as ‘the way forward’ for the school dining experience of the future.”

Brendon Fulton, Executive Principal of the Dubai British Schools Group, said: “We will remember him fondly and his memory will forever live on at our school through the Food Technology Suite that was named in his honour. Our community will always associate him with the practical demonstrations that he gave in this suite, his humour, friendliness, inspiration and passion. We are all truly heartbroken by his sudden passing.”