A group of enthusiastic Year 10 and 11 food and nutrition students from All Saints Academy Plymouth (ASAP) have travelled to Queen’s College, Taunton this term to attend a ‘Chemistry of Cooking’ show led by Dr Josh Smalley, scientist and star of The Great British Bake Off (GBBO).

Dr Smalley is a passionate science communicator, presenter and baker, with a doctorate in chemical biology. A finalist of the 2023 series of The Great British Bake Off, Josh was renowned for his impressive showstopper bakes and steadfast attention to detail.

The interactive session brought science and creativity together as students explored the fascinating chemistry behind everyday baking. From experimenting with raising agents to learning the art of tempering chocolate, just in time for GBBO’s Chocolate Week, students were captivated by the mix of demonstration and discovery.

The group also had the chance to sample Dr Smalley’s creations, including a delicious chocolate and caramel Swiss roll and perfectly piped meringues. A special mention goes to Peter in Year 11, who showed outstanding confidence and school spirit by stepping up on stage for a one to one piping demonstration with Dr Smalley. 

At ASAP, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, the food and nutrition course equips students with essential life skills and a deep understanding of food science and healthy eating. From hands-on experiments to mini investigations, students learn how to make informed, sustainable choices about food and nutrition, preparing them to feed themselves and others affordably and healthily throughout life. 

Scott Simpson-Horne, Head Teacher at All Saints Academy said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to see how science and food go hand in hand. Dr Smalley’s passion for both chemistry and baking was infectious, and our students came away inspired to experiment and challenge themselves in the kitchen.”

 Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: “It’s wonderful to see our students inspired by this experience and excited to put what they learnt into practice. Opportunities like this show young people that what they study in the classroom has real-world relevance and can even lead to extraordinary careers.”