by 11-year-old Tavistock College student Harry Gallie

THE last few weeks have been a little strange and unsettling to say the least. Since I’m currently stuck indoors — as are many others around the world — I’ve decided to try and turn a bad situation into a...well, less bad situation!

My parents have challenged me to learn a new life skill each week alongside all my home learning, and I wanted to share my experiences with Times readers.

Every Monday they set me a new theme. The rules are that I have to research, practice and then carry out the designated task without any help whatsoever from those at home.

Books, the internet and my own ingenuity are all I have...let’s hope it’s enough!

This week has been all about bread. Given the panic buying we’ve seen in the supermarkets, my parents thought it would be good for me to learn how to make this foodstuff basic. (Side note before we begin; those of you who have never made your own bread would not believe how much effort and time it takes to make the humble loaf!)

The first step was to find out what I would need and if we actually had these ingredients in the cupboard. Thankfully, I was able to find a recipe that fitted those conditions.

Paul Hollywood’s traditional bloomer recipe was clear and easy to follow, needing only a small range of ingredients (strong bread flour, salt, yeast, water and oil), a mixing bowl, a baking tray and plenty of elbow grease. The trickiest part of it was probably the initial mixing — the dough was really sticky to begin with — however, it soon became much softer and springier after kneading. After proving for two and a half hours — during which time it tripled in size and reminded me slightly of hot air balloon — it was time to shape the bloomer and then leave it for its second prove (a further hour). Then all that was left was to sprinkle flour and water over the top of it, slice it diagonally and bake for about 40 minutes. Apparently the kitchen smelt amazing –—although I can’t comment on this as I currently have a cold (no coughing or fever I promise).

The final product was pretty good! I’ve never baked anything like this before, unless cupcakes count? I was pleased with how it turned out, and look forward to slicing it up later for sandwiches and toast for the rest of the family.

Difficulty rating: 6/10 Although the recipe was easy to follow, it required a lot of effort at points, as well as patience waiting for it to prove.

Boredom buster/enjoyability: 10/10 It was so much fun to make, and seeing the final product was very rewarding!

Life skill usefulness rating: 8/10 especially at the moment, with limited supplies available, being able to make your own bread is a valuable skill. The only problem with this at present is getting hold of the ingredients. However, I would definitely be up for doing this again.

All in all, this experience has been a real eye opener. It’s good to try things you’ve not tried before. I look forward to whatever challenge next week holds!