Seven autistic young people with complex needs from Prior’s Court enjoyed a hands-on culinary experience at Pizza Express where they had the opportunity to make their own pizzas from scratch.

Young people Rory, Ryan, Zak, Daniel K, Amar, Jenny, and Jaasir all took part in the visit to the Newbury branch of the pizza restaurant chain on Wednesday, 7 May.

Pizza Express runs a programme that welcomes schools into its restaurants for a pizza-making session. The Prior’s Court group of young people were supported by communication books and visual schedules to help them understand the day’s activities and what to expect.

After the session, the young people and staff walked to Victoria Park, Newbury, to enjoy a picnic and eat the pizzas they had made.

Maria Loren, one of our Hospitality Vocational Instructors who led the trip, said: "The activity built on recent learning in Food Technology sessions, where the young people have been exploring pizza-making techniques in the classroom. This trip offered the chance to put that knowledge into practice in a real restaurant setting.

"All seven young people engaged brilliantly throughout the day and were supported by staff to take part in every stage of the experience. The trip not only reinforced learning from Food Tech but also provided opportunities to develop skills in a community setting.

"Well done to everyone involved in making the day a success."

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