Upcoming events
Chop and Change November Feast
A Very Chop & Change Christmas
New Year, New Flavours: A Chop & Change Celebration at DoubleTree Hilton
About
Chop and Change is a Ganton School initiative tackling the employment gap for young people with severe learning difficulties. With only 6% of adults with SLD in work nationally, we create opportunities that prove what’s possible.
Working alongside professional chefs and hospitality partners, students gain real-life work experience in kitchens and front-of-house roles. These skills lead to casual employment, greater independence, and brighter futures.
Impact
Get Involved
Chop and Change is made possible through the generosity of our supporters and the commitment of our partners. Their support is proof that agencies can work in tandem to provide young people with severe learning difficulties access to even greater opportunities to thrive. Together we form a community of care and industry which is truly unique.
Core Supporters and Partnerships
Cranswick
Major supporter of the programme, hosting placements at their Development Kitchen and investing in student pathways.
Matthew Good Foundation
Core supporter investing in the long-term growth of Chop and Change.
Operational Partners:
The Deep
Employer of our first Chop and Change graduate.
DoubleTree Hilton
Partner in large-scale events and placements.
– Together, these organisations open doors that change lives.
Partnership and Supporters Pack:
Chop and Change exists thanks to Partnerships and supporters who believe in brighter futures for young people with severe learning difficulties. Your support creates real jobs and life-changing opportunities. Contributions can be financial, in-kind, or through partnership — every one makes a difference.
Download our Partnership and Supporters Pack to find impact stories, practical ways to get involved, and clear options to align your support with our mission.
Symbol-Supported Recipes
During the first lockdown in March 2020, sixth form teacher Asa Hancock spotted a gap: the nation’s favourite chefs didn’t provide symbol-supported recipes. Inspired by Tom Kerridge, Jamie Oliver and the Hairy Bikers, Ganton students loved cooking their dishes but struggled without symbols.
Asa worked with Tom Kerridge, Bloomsbury Absolute and Widgit to create accessible, symbolised recipe packs. Designer Tom Jelley from Widgit added simplified instructions and clear visuals so students can follow them with minimal support.
‘Pupils take part in a strong work experience and work-related learning programme.’…
‘Pupil Premium is targeted to improving pupils’ communication skills through investment in specialist equipment and software.’…
‘Pupils say that they enjoy their lessons and take great pride in their work.’…
‘Based on the evidence gathered during this short inspection, I am of the opinion that the school continues to go from strength to strength.’…
‘Pupils spoke
enthusiastically about learning outside of school and their visits to local museums, the Humber Bridge, local cafes and to the cinema.’…
‘There is a strong emphasis on personalisation of the curriculum, the development of pupils’ communication skills, independence skills and preparation for life after school.’…
‘The curriculum offers a wealth of enrichment activities which are highly valued by
pupils and parents and carers.’…
‘Pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, are making strong progress from their varied starting points in reading, writing and mathematics.’…
‘Leaders have introduced a new approach to assessment. This enables leaders to check pupils’ progress from their starting points more effectively.’…
‘Leaders have continued to develop the school’s curriculum since the last inspection.’…
‘Leaders have carried out a detailed review of the curriculum pathways for pupils.’…
‘Pupils rise to the challenges that you set, and their learning is rarely disrupted.’…
‘Staff use signing, symbols, photographs and objects of reference to communicate effectively with those pupils who need additional support to ensure that they are fully engaged in their learning.’…
‘Pupils take part in local and
regional accessible sporting activities.’…
‘Pupils run the school shop and staff cafeteria, enabling them to use their literacy and numeracy skills in a practical setting.’…
‘Pupils respect each other, display good manners and work together successfully.’…
‘The school council is
especially active and members are particularly proud of the role they played in improving school meals..’…
‘Leaders use the pupil premium funding effectively.’…