Sophie’s Journey – From Apprentice to Head Baker

Sophie’s Path to the Kitchen

She’d spent years studying and thinking about people, stories, and society—but what she really wanted was something more hands-on. Something creative. Something to do with food.

“I was keen for a change of scenery and a change in career,” Sophie explains. “I’ve always loved baking, but I didn’t know how to get into it professionally. That’s why the Plumpton College apprenticeship programme was ideal for me—it gave me a way in.”

In November 2023, Sophie moved to Brighton and started as a bakery apprentice at One Garden Brighton. The transition was fast, but it felt right. From the start, she was working in a real kitchen with real customers, guided by experienced baker Aidan Chapman.

“It felt so great to work in a field I was genuinely passionate about,” she says. “I’ve learnt so much and I’m still learning every day. Being able to be creative with what I’m making—and then actually see people enjoy it—it’s amazing. I cried the first time I saw someone buy a coffee and a piece of cake I’d made.”

New Role, New Offering

Sophie’s now Head Baker at One Garden Brighton, leading the baking team and developing seasonal bakes for One Market and the soon-to-launch One Kitchen offering.

Her approach is simple: make good food, keep learning, and enjoy the process.

The move into baking wasn’t something Sophie had planned for years—it came from listening to herself and following an interest she’d always had. “It brings me so much joy,” she says, “and I feel lucky to have found something I care about this much.”

At One Garden Brighton, Sophie’s bakes are shaped by the seasons, made with care, and inspired by a love of the craft. Unlike many local cafés and shops that source their treats from external suppliers, One Garden Brighton is proud to have an in-house bakery, where every baked item is made right here on site. It’s not just local—it’s made here, by a team who love what they do.

New Changes to One Kitchen

From Saturday 24th May, One Kitchen will re-open, serving freshly brewed coffee from new guest roasters Pharmacie, alongside teas, cold drinks, and a carefully curated range of sweet and savoury treats made by Sophie and her team. It’s a place to pause, enjoy something homemade, and experience the creativity behind every bake. One Kitchen will be open daily from 9.30am to 5pm.

Meanwhile, One Market remains open as always, offering a mix of seasonal plants and flowers, local produce and wine, handcrafted gifts, and activities for children—making One Garden Brighton a place to explore, taste, and take something special home.