Bake Off star selects winner of King’s Rochester's lockdown baking competition

Pupils at King’s Rochester spent their weekend eagerly waiting to hear who Mr David Atherton, winner of Channel 4’s The Great British Bake Off 2019, had chosen as winner of their lockdown baking competition.

Pupils in both the Preparatory and Senior Schools were set a baking challenge to produce 12 identical cupcakes over the course of a week. Sending two pictures to judges showing the beautifully baked cakes whole and cut in half to reveal light and fluffy textures.

David entered the 2019 Great British Bake-Off competition and his flair, positivity and calmness led him to a much-deserved victory, who better to assist the judging than someone who has received the ‘Hollywood handshake’.

The competition was led by Preparatory School teacher, Mrs Laura George who reached out to the Great British Bake-Off Team via Twitter for messages of support for the budding bakers. Mr Atherton kindly replied and agreed to not only record a supportive message but also to join the judges in selecting the winners.

The competition ended on Friday 1^st May 2020 with Mr Atherton, Mrs George and Headmaster of the Preparatory School, Mr Tom Morgan as judges. It was a tough decision but they chose Jack Seagar for his creative burger, chocolate centred cupcakes!

Mr Atherton said “they were some really, really impressive cupcakes, I particularly like the creativity and I would like to see a few of the bakers apply for junior Bake Off next time, well done Jack”.

Some pupils kindly donated their creations to local frontline workers across Kent.

King’s Rochester prides itself on its extensive co-curricular and it’s teaching staff have been highly innovative and creative in ensuring learning can continue online after the School day including baking, running, cycling, drama and music.

Mr Atherton’s video can be viewed on the King’s Rochester website, Twitter and Facebook pages.