The Chocolate Skills Academy, located at Park House Barns in Knaresborough is a unique programme for young adults with autism and learning disabilities to explore the world of handcrafted chocolate making. This programme blends the art and science of chocolate production with personal and professional development, offering participants an enriching, hands-on experience in a supportive environment.

Why Join the Chocolate Skills Academy?

The Chocolate Skills Academy is about more than making delicious treats. It's a chance to develop essential skills, gain work experience, and connect with others in a friendly, inclusive space. Our Academy is designed to support each participant's individual growth, helping them build confidence, independence, and valuable job skills.

What You'll Learn

• Chocolate-Making Techniques: Dive into the art of chocolate production, from tempering to moudling and decorating handcrafted chocolates.
• Workplace skills: Learn teamwork, time management, communication, and attention to detail through hands-on projects.
• Customer Service Experience: Gain insight into retail and customer engagement in a real-world setting.
• Creative Expression: Try your hand at designing custom chocolate creations, learning how to pair flavours and create visually appealing products.

Prepare for Careers in Catering, Chocolate, and Food

Skills gained at the Chocolate Academy are invaluable for anyone interested in exploring a career in food production, catering, or chocolate-making. Participants receive hands-on training in the entire process of chocolate production, from raw ingredients to finished product, making this programme ideal for anyone looking to:

Start a Career in Catering or Food Production: Our participants learn food handling, safe kitchen practices, and high standards in quality and presentation, key skills in the catering and food industry.

Pursue Chocolate Making as a Career Path: The programmes specialised training in chocolate tempering, moulding, and decoration offers unique insights for those interested in a chocolate-focused career.

Gain Experience for Food Service or Retail Roles: With practical experience in customer service and teamwork, participants develop skills that are transferable across the food and retail sectors.

Why Chocolate?

Chocolate-making offers a perfect blend of sensory engagement, creativity, and skill-building, ideal for individuals looking to develop hands-on skills in a structured, welcoming setting. Working with chocolate not only promotes fine motor skills but also encourages participants to take pride in their work, building a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

Support from Our Employment Team

Participants in the Chocolate Academy also benefit from the expertise of our internal employment team, who are dedicated to helping individuals with autism and learning disabilities achieve their career goals. Our employment team provides:

Career Planning and Support: Personalised guidance to help participants explore future employment pathways, including building CVs, interview prep, and goal setting.

Workplace Readiness: Coaching on transferable skills, such as effective communication and organisation, to prepare participants for future job opportunities.

Ongoing Mentorship: Continued support throughout, helping participants feel confident and prepared for the next steps in their career journey.

Through our employment team’s involvement, the Chocolate Academy equips participants with not only hands-on chocolate-making skills but also the broader skills needed for successful employment and independence.

Programme Details

Duration: Each programme lasts two months, with five programmes offered per year until 2026.

Location: Autism Plus, Firecrest House, Lingerfield Business Park, Scotton, Knaresborough HG5 9JA

Eligibility: Open to adults with autism, learning disabilities, or neurodiverse needs who are eager to learn and engage in new experiences.

Personalised Support: Our experienced team provides individualised guidance and encouragement, helping each participant make the most of their experience.

How to Apply

Applications are currently open for the next in take, starting in January 2025. Click on the button below to apply.