How GASP Motor Project is helping Surrey young people find confidence through hands-on learning

From motor mechanics to teamwork and problem solving, discover how GASP Motor Project is helping Surrey young people who have struggled with mainstream education find a new route forward.

GASP Motor Project (GASP) is a dynamic, forward-thinking education charity based near Guildford.

From its origins in 2005 providing evening activities for local youngsters who had been engaging in anti-social behaviour including car theft and joyriding, GASP quickly expanded to deliver daytime sessions in hands-on motor mechanics, registering as a charity in 2009.

This year GASP has supported more than 670 youngsters across Surrey, including at many local schools across Guildford and Waverley.

The charity runs 38 courses a week and two evening youth clubs at its main workshop near Albury and via three fully-equipped mobile vans.

Students referred to the charity have often been out of mainstream education for several years. They may be permanently excluded, school refusers, or involved in criminal activities.

They earn certificates for skills accomplished, creating portfolios to demonstrate their commitment and achievements.

Activities are ‘hands-on’, involving teamwork, problem solving and communication – building positive wellbeing and self-confidence. Students learn about two- and four-wheeled vehicles and two- and four-stroke engines.

This year it is expanding to accommodate more students, helping to decrease the number of NEETs.

More at gaspmotorproject.org.

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