Over 5 decades, Dilys has witnessed huge changes in preparing school meals – from the equipment she uses to changing menus and nutritional expectations.
But at the heart of it all is her love for looking after the children and ensuring they are well fed.
“That’s what has kept me here all these years,”
she said.
And to honour her dedicated service, the school is throwing a party on Friday (22 May 2026) in her honour where she’ll be presented with a certificate.
Staff, pupils and families have also been invited to share comments and memories about Dilys as part of a project to celebrate her milestone anniversary.
A mum and grandmother, she’s also been nominated for a lifetime achievement from the Jamie Oliver School Meals Awards.
Dilys began her culinary journey under the watchful eye of Mrs McBride. It was there she learned traditional, meticulous kitchen techniques that still guide her today. She continues to pass these high standards on to her team, ensuring the same consistency, care and pride in every meal served.
One former colleague quipped:
“Dilys has always run a very tight ship with a kitchen that was so clean you could eat off any of the work surfaces – if not the floor!”
Having served multiple generations, including her own children and grandchildren. Dilys is truly the 'grandmother of the community', cherished, trusted and recognised by all.
Working alongside Diane, who has nearly 40 years of service herself, the pair are regarded as the go‑to support for school catering colleagues across High Peak and Buxton.
They are known for their generosity, always ready with advice, training or even spare supplies when another kitchen is struggling.
And Dilys has seen some changes over the decades.
She said:
Things have changed massively! Equipment, food guidance and influences, standards. There used to be a lot more manual work. We would chip potatoes, batter our own fish and joint our own meat but you just get on with it.
“You learn, you adapt and you keep the children at the centre of what you do. That’s never changed.”
And when asked what she was most proud of she replied:
“Serving generations of families has been very special. Seeing children I cooked for bring their own children to school. Being part of the community like that means a lot to me.”
Councillor Simon Mabbott, Cabinet Member for SEND and Education, said:
“I’d like to thank Dilys for her quite remarkable contribution to life at Fairfield Infant and Nursery School.
“Over the years I’m sure she must have cooked hundreds of thousands of meals making sure generations of youngsters are well fed, helping them stay alert in class and have more energy to enjoy an active lifestyle.”
Headteacher Jenny Allin added:
“Dilys is an invaluable member of our school team and is pivotal to the running of our school. Dilys is hardworking, kind, adaptable and always goes the extra mile.
“She has this amazing ability to not only remember the names of all the children in school but also what they like to eat!
“Dilys patiently works with those children who are wary of trying new foods and invariably has them eating a full range of foods by the time they leave us.
“She truly deserves this celebration of 50 years of service – not just any service, but a high quality, outstanding and loyal service to our school and our Fairfield Community.
“I thank her on behalf of the children, parents, staff, governors and myself for being at the heart of our FINS family.”