What we do
GASP is widely recognised in Surrey as a provider of non-judgemental, caring and practical support. We deliver accredited courses in basic motor mechanics and practical engineering skills and contribute to students' positive personal development. We do this by providing specialist, practical, hands-on learning within a focused, personalised and disciplined framework. This is either at our fully equipped custom-built workshop in Albury (near Guildford) or through our mobile unit, which enables us to bring the courses out to schools and youth organisations across Surrey.
To find out more about our courses please visit our sessions page or see our Impact Report 2023-2024.
About Us
Founded in 2005, GASP delivers formal, alternative learning to children and young people in Surrey and its borders — using hands-on motor mechanics to build skills, qualifications and positive personal traits.
Our Sessions
Daytime courses for schools and evening sessions for young people. Delivered at our Albury workshop and via three mobile classrooms across Surrey. AQA accredited, STEM-integrated, hands-on learning.
Support Us
GASP relies entirely on voluntary support and funding. Volunteer your time, donate via JustGiving, or partner with us as a corporate supporter. Every contribution changes young lives.
Testimonials
"[The GASP course] has helped students to make connections with subjects they are studying – science, DT – and they have benefited from working as part of a team. "We would definitely choose GASP again – it has been a very positive experience for the students who have attended, and they have benefited from some excellent teaching."
"The GASP project provides much more than just tangible, practical mechanical skills, the pupils are able to forge positive, trusting relationships with adults outside their classroom environment which is a valuable life skill. The GASP project is valued by our pupils – they look forward to their sessions and talk about their experiences with pride and enthusiasm."
"GASP gives the students a realisation that they are able to achieve. Often, this is the first time students have had this experience."
"The GASP course gives students a real focus and something to learn that can lead to a future career. All of the students are very motivated to do the course and get excited with each new project."
"It's much better than school because there it's all pens and paper, but here you have tools in your hand. It's different – but you still get to learn stuff."
"The [GASP] staff are brilliant and so knowledgeable and really empower and enable our learners."
The Need
Surrey is considered affluent, yet has hidden pockets of significant deprivation with over 20% of children impacted by low income, crime and poor health. Since 2020 the social, emotional and mental health of Surrey's children has declined significantly. There are over 16,500 children in Surrey state schools with additional education, health and social needs.
These children are often trapped in a cycle of poor educational attainment, and a lack of self-confidence and awareness which can create challenging behaviours.
How We Address This Need
GASP partners with schools, educators and the local authority by offering children tailored vocational training courses. Course lengths vary from half a term to a full academic year, delivered either at our purpose-built workshop just outside Guildford, or on an external site via three mobile classrooms.
There is no referral criteria, and GASP tutors are trained to work with students who have a broad range of abilities, challenges and strengths. Groups have a maximum of six young people with two GASP tutors, ensuring learning is focussed and personalised.
GASP tutors also act as mentors, supporting, advising and guiding. GASP works with expert organisations for the provision of mental health youth workers, and behaviour management support.
View Our SessionsSupport GASP
Every donation directly funds life-changing courses for Surrey's most vulnerable young people. Give online securely via JustGiving.