Since moving to the Carswell Centre in 2024, Opeka has made it a key priority to connect with the local community and create meaningful opportunities for our participants.

One of the most popular additions to our activity programme has been the baking sessions offered to our Thursday and Friday groups. These sessions are led by a talented local baker who brings not only technical skills, but warmth, patience, and a passion for sharing the joy of baking.

Baking offers a fun and practical way for participants to develop new skills while engaging their senses, working together, and trying something different. Each session introduces a range of techniques, from rolling and shaping dough to using icing bags and sifting flour. These tasks may seem simple, but for many of our participants they represent an exciting challenge that helps to build motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and confidence in the kitchen.

What makes these baking sessions truly special is the sense of pride and achievement they bring. From measuring ingredients to seeing the finished product come out of the oven, each step is an opportunity to learn, make choices, and celebrate success. The atmosphere is always relaxed and friendly, with plenty of laughter, encouragement, and of course, taste testing.

Beyond the kitchen, these sessions have also helped to strengthen ties with the local community. Our participants love working with someone from the area, and the sessions often spark conversations and shared memories about baking at home with family members. They are more than just a chance to make sweet treats—they are a space where creativity, independence, and social connection can flourish.

At Opeka, we believe in creating activities that are both meaningful and enjoyable, and our baking sessions have quickly become a favourite for good reason.