Building skills and confidence through baking

Bernicia worked with Big River Bakery to support people looking to build skills and move towards employment.

The free ten-week ‘One Loaf at a Time’ course gives tenants and people in local communities the chance to learn baking skills, gain qualifications and build confidence in a supportive environment.

The challenge

Some people want to work or learn new skills but may lack confidence, experience or the right qualifications to get started.

What we did

We funded the course to give people practical, hands-on experience in a real working kitchen.

Participants learned how to make a range of baked goods while also developing important skills such as teamwork, communication and professional behaviour.

They also received support with their next steps, including gaining qualifications and exploring future job or training opportunities.

The impact

The course is already helping people grow in confidence and take positive steps towards their goals.

Paige, a Bernicia tenant, travelled from Berwick twice a week to take part. She joined the course to work towards starting her own baking business.

“I suffer from anxiety, but once I get into the kitchen it’s been okay,” she said.

By the end of the course, participants will have new skills, recognised qualifications and greater confidence to move into work, training or further education.