St Peter’s hosted budding chef Joshie, an 11-year-old boy with non-verbal autism, after seeing a local call put out by Roots’ Michelin star chef, Tommy Banks, for restaurants and professional kitchens to bring Joshie in for a cooking lesson to help him pursue his dreams.
Tommy operated a stall for Christmas Markets in November and December, and after a van full of his pies was stolen, Joshie baked him replacement pies and reached out on social media. Tommy accepted the pies and kindly responded by giving him a cooking demo in his stall in the market, encouraged other kitchens to have Joshie visit.
Joshie and his family travelled into York again on Saturday by train and made the short journey to our school. Our Catering and Hospitality manager, alongside chef Calvin, helped Joshie learn to make Quiche. From cracking the eggs, combining the ingredients, and keeping a careful eye on oven timings, Joshie did an excellent job cooking. He enjoyed quizzing himself on the different appliances and produce available throughout the kitchen and was able to take some food home with him.
Joshie’s family raise awareness on social media to show others how people like Joshie can be active members of society, pursuing careers and aspirations just like everyone else.
St Peter’s believes in encouraging young people to work hard at making their dreams a reality, not letting anything stand in their way. Joshie exemplifies this and was a joy to have visit.
To learn more about Joshie’s journey to professional kitchens, read the BBC article here.
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