Grant boost transforms food technology facilities at Outwood Academy Danum

Outwood Academy Danum is set to enhance its food technology provision following the award of nearly £8,000 in grant funding from the Savoy Educational Trust. The grant will fund improvements to storage solutions and provide access to modern, industry-standard cooking equipment for students.
The investment comes at a crucial time for the academy, with enrolment in Key Stage 4 (KS4) Hospitality and Catering courses rising sharply—from 34 students in 2024 to 83 participating this year. The upgraded facilities will benefit both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 pupils, allowing them to develop essential culinary techniques and gain a deeper understanding of nutrition in a modern learning environment.
The initiative is aligned with the Doncaster Food Plan, supporting efforts to raise residents’ food knowledge and skills. By supplying ingredients and equipment free of charge, the academy ensures all students can access practical cookery lessons without financial barriers. Links with Jamie Oliver’s Ministry of Food and active participation in the Food Teachers Centre network further support students and staff.
Angela Maher, chief executive of the Savoy Educational Trust, expressed support for the project: “It is encouraging to see such a significant increase in young people choosing to study Hospitality and Catering at Outwood Academy Danum. The school’s ambition to build on that interest, connecting what students learn in the classroom with opportunities to experience the industry first-hand, is something we are pleased to support. We hope this investment will encourage more young people to see hospitality not simply as a subject they enjoy, but as an industry in which they can build a rewarding, long-term career.”
Louise Caldwell, grants and fundraising development officer at Outwood Grange Academies Trust, highlighted the impact: “We are delighted to have been able to secure this grant. As student interest in food technology and catering continues to grow rapidly, this investment in new equipment will transform the practical learning environment. It directly empowers pupils to gain high-level culinary skills and paves clear pathways into further education and hospitality careers.”
The grant will also facilitate partnerships with local employers, colleges, and initiatives such as Hospitality Connect. Students will have the opportunity to compete in Springboard’s FutureChef competitions, benefit from mentoring by professional chefs, and access career resources via the CareerScope platform. Additional opportunities will include Junior Chef and Barista Academies, alongside continued professional development for teaching staff. Upgraded facilities and new programmes will be integrated into both curriculum and extracurricular activities throughout the academic year.