The Sourdough School

BALM – Proven as one of the healthiest approaches to bread in the world.

Based in the walled gardens of Dr. Vanessa Kimbell's beautiful Victorian home in rural Northamptonshire, UK, we tutor individuals and train bakers and healthcare professionals in Baking as Lifestyle Medicine (BALM). Personalising bread to your lifestyle, gut microbiome, and unique genetics for optimal health—tailoring fermentation, fibre, and diversity so that your daily bread becomes the foundation of your health.

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[email protected]
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The dog rules at The Sourdough School

Arlo is a service dog

Can I bring my own dog?

We have cats and chickens, and hygiene rules, so unless your dog is a service dog, then we are not in a position to accommodate dogs.

Can you put your dogs away?

Although we are able to lock the dogs away whilst people are arriving or leaving.  Their job is to alert me that there are people here, and this is their home.

Are dogs allowed in The School?

As we have the doors open in the school in the summer they occasionally wander into The School however we do not allow that pets in this area and ask that you do not encourage them in, please.

Service dog

Whilst we do not allow animals in the food preparation areas, it is important to understand that Arlo is a service dog, and is trained to perform a role that helps in certain challenges. Vanessa is neurodiverse and Arlo’s job is to help manage anxiety and help in certain situations interact with others to maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle. He is a devoted companion providing reassurance, security and friendship. We are able to limit the presence of Arlo, but The Sourdough School is part of Vanessa’s home, and we use some areas during the course that are not food areas but our day-to-day family space, so if you are afraid of dogs or have an allergy then please speak to us before attending and we will try to accommodate.

Polly does not like to be fussed

Polly is the small Jack Russel.  She is the whiter dog and she deeply dislikes being touched by people. She may look friendly and as though she wants to be petted, but if you fuss her she will growl and may snap. We ask that you do NOT touch her at any time on the course. She will not attack you, or chase you, or engage with you. She will ignore you, but do not be fooled by her!

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