Angus, 12, stuns family and friends with his impressive cakes

Angus McKinney, who has been supported by Bridges Project, has been baking since he was just three years old and on his own since he was seven. He has already started a mini business.

The North Berwick High School student might only be 12 but bakes cakes most adults would be jealous of. He attributes his passion both to his grandma and the Great British Bake Off.

“My grandma loved baking and she baked every time I was over there. I also watched the Great British Bake Off from a very young age. It was during lockdown I got really into it and someone asked me to bake a cake and then I soon got another request,” says Angus.

And from there, the ball started rolling. He is now baking cakes for friends, family and various fundraising events and hopes to soon gain his Food Hygiene Certificate so that he can set up a proper business.

The 12-year-old usually bakes four times a week and also often cooks dinner for his family. In addition, Angus is a Young Carer for his sister Eliza, who has Rett syndrome. He therefore has a busy life and baking has become a good way to switch off.

“Baking provides a bit of an escape. Things can be quite busy at home so I like spending time by myself baking. It allows me to have some me-time, listen to music and just chill out,” says the North Berwick High School student.

Nevertheless, Angus also likes a challenge and recently applied to compete in Junior Bake Off. To his disappointment, he was unable to participate as he turns 13 in July and would have to still be 12 between June and September to be eligible. However, the young star baker does not rule out participating in the Great British Bake Off when he is older.

“It would be amazing to participate in the Great British Bake Off. It is something I might do in the future but not as soon as I am old enough. I would probably try and participate when I am in my 20s,” says the 12-year-old.

For now, baking mainly remains a hobby for Angus.

“I have not thought about whether I would want to become a baker full-time when I am older. I would love to do it but we will see,” he says.

Angus has also impressed Bridges Project staff with his baking skills after his engagement with Support Worker Leigh McAvinchey. She has helped Angus complete a Young Carer’s Statement, providing him with an opportunity to consider his own personal goals. Leigh is currently assisting Angus with looking into obtaining a Food Hygiene Certificate.

“Angus is a very mature young lad for his 12 years with a real passion and amazing talent for cake baking. Despite his fantastic talent, Angus is very humble, and takes his school work, baking business, Scouts and caring responsibilities all in his stride. He is clearly a very loving brother to his sister and seems determined that she never misses out on family fun and always feels included. At this rate, I’m sure he will have his own world class patisserie!” says Leigh.