June 2024 Cake! Magazine | Page 35

Q4 . “ The problem I come up against is always space - I don ’ t have the space to host students in my house and hiring event rooms is expensive . Any suggestions ?” I feel you ! I was also on a tight budget when I first started , so initially I was teaching in my home kitchen . However it did mean that I was restricted to about 3-4 students per class , depending on the project . But you know what ? I liked this . Because it was a familiar environment - so I felt more comfortable - and it offered a more intimate and personalised setting for my students .
If that ’ s not feasible , there are plenty of other alternative venues out there . I ’ ve taught at local church kitchens and the senior citizens hall , which are typically more affordable than your typical events venue . One spot I love teaching at is one of the local cafes in town - it provides a relaxed atmosphere for my students and the bonus of everyone enjoying a coffee and bite to eat during class .
Alternatively , you could offer group party bookings and teach in the host ’ s kitchen . It ’ s a win-win !
So don ’ t give up hope yet ! Keep exploring those more ‘ obscure ’ venue options - you never know what you might find !
Q5 . “ What ’ s one tip you ’ d recommend for a successful class ?” One tip I found invaluable is to be flexible with your teaching approach - not everyone learns the same way and sometimes unexpected challenges arise that require you to pivot and adapt .
During a recent class , I was demonstrating how to use edible gold paint for finishing touches on a cake . Unfortunately I had a bit of an oopsie moment - I accidentally knocked over the paint bottle and it spilt all over the floor . It was a moment of panic , but I quickly improvised by grabbing some cake decorators alcohol and gold lustre dust . Turning the situation into a learning opportunity , I showed the class how to create gold paint using these alternate ingredients . My class found it really interesting and we were able to continue with the lesson seamlessly !
I hope these insights spark the courage you need to ‘ give it a go ’ and venture into the realm of teaching . Here ’ s to your sweet teaching success !

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