Bake Off Star Inspires Budding Scientists

Josh – who once attended Highcliffe Primary and The Cedars Academy – led a live baking demonstration for 25 learners from Years 7 to 9. Known for blending science with baking, he wowed the room with insights into acids, alkalis and the magic of baking powder.

He brought along his homemade sourdough to explain the role of gluten, then treated learners to rich chocolate samples while discussing the chemistry of cocoa butter and fatty acids. The excitement rose as Josh whipped up glossy meringues, each one perfectly peaked. As learners tucked in, he explained the science behind whisking egg whites and stabilising whipped cream.

The visit was a reward for learners who took part in a research project with the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HRDC). As part of the project, pupils explored public health through a series of creative workshops. They ‘interrogated’ a researcher to uncover how lifestyle choices affect health, designed their own ‘ideal town’ to promote wellbeing and ranked features like corner shops, churches and bike racks to show what young people value in a healthy community.

Josh rounded off the session with a lively Q&A, answering questions about his career and passion for baking.

It was a day full of flavour and fascinating science – a perfect end to the term.