I’ve spent the last few months teaching students that with the right ingredients and a bit of patience, anyone can create something amazing. Now, I’m putting my own "knead" for a challenge to the test! I’ve been (happily!) roped into trekking Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, to raise vital funds for the incredible school where I work: Red Balloon Norwich.

At Red Balloon, I’m the Baking Tutor. My passion is getting our students to step out of their comfort zones—whether that’s mastering a tricky pastry or, currently, exploring the world through international flavours.

But Red Balloon is about so much more than what’s cooking in the kitchen. We support young people who have found mainstream school impossible to navigate.

As our Head of Centre, Mark Anderson, says: “Red Balloon creates a nurturing environment for students who cannot thrive in a mainstream environment. We are here to re-build trust, confidence, skills and academic knowledge.”

I see every day how our students start to feel safe, encouraged, and believed in again. For many, just walking through our doors is their "Ben Nevis." If they can show that kind of bravery every day, the least I can do is climb a mountain for them!

Every penny raised goes directly toward supporting our students' journey back into education and community. Whether it’s fresh ingredients for our "Food Around the World" projects or resources to help them feel safe and inspired, your support means everything.

I’m going to need all the encouragement (and probably a few high-carb snacks) to get to the summit. Please donate whatever you can—every bit helps us keep the ovens on and the hearts full at Red Balloon.

Thank you for believing in our students as much as I do!