Terminology

Catered accommodation and food provision

Around 44% of accommodation for new students at Edinburgh is catered.

With the exception of catered accommodation at Pollock Halls, all other University of Edinburgh accommodation is self-catered.

Catered accommodation

University accommodation where food provision forms part of the accommodation contract.

Food contract

The accommodation contract for catered accommodation at Pollock Halls includes the provision of 14 meals per week for each resident (during semester time only).

Meals included are breakfast Monday to Friday, evening meals seven days a week, and brunch at weekends. Lunches from Monday to Friday and breakfast at weekends are not included.

The catered element at Pollock is an integral and non-negotiable part of the accommodation contract.

Other catering outlets

Students living in accommodation where food is not provided as part of the contract can purchase meals on a pay-as-you-eat basis at University-run cafeterias on the various campuses.

In addition, students who are not resident at Pollock Halls can purchase meals there if they wish.

Edinburgh also has a very wide selection of commercial food and drink outlets around the University areas, which cater for all tastes and price ranges.

Other cooking arrangements

Catered University residences provide additional facilities for residents to prepare hot drinks and snacks outside of normal mealtimes.

These are available in small kitchenettes (often referred to as "pantries"). Facilities generally consist of items such as kettles, toasters and microwave ovens.

Pantries are not suitable for full-scale cooking activities, and residents who wish to cook their own meals on a regular basis should apply for self-catered accommodation.

Special diets

There is always at least one vegetarian option on the menu at Pollock Halls each day. Vegans are advised that this option may not always suit them.

Other special diets are not normally catered for. Those with a need for a special diet are recommended to apply for self-catered accommodation.

This article was published on Dec 4, 2008