Baking teen's dream job starts at 3am

PRO WITH A WHISK: Haans Paraki-Webber with Ciabatta Bakery owner Alex Burge. PHOTO/BEN FRASER

A local teen who is passionate about pastry is gearing up to do a diploma in baking, at just 15 years old

Haans Paraki-Webber started doing work experience at Ciabatta Bakery when he was just 13.

After a year of unpaid work experience, bakery owners Alex and Sue Burge were so impressed with Haans' commitment, they offered him paid employment one day a week.

"A lot of teenagers Haans' age don't realise what it takes to do a full day of work," Mr Burge said.

"Many cannot cope with the early mornings required of bakers but Haans has never had a problem doing the 3am shift. We don't mind hiring young people as attitude and willingness to work is more important than age.

"He started out making sandwiches and then we taught him how to make all the products for the front-of-house cabinets.

"It was very courageous of Haans to take on the responsibility of doing the 3am shift."

Haans said he would like to open his own bakery one day.

"Opening my own bakery would probably be my ultimate goal. I just love baking ... so being a really good baker is also my goal."

Haans' mum Cindy Paraki said Mr and Mrs Burge had been very supportive and open to letting a young teenager work for them.

"Haans' enthusiasm and references from his employers have allowed him to do his diploma at such a young age."

Ms Paraki said she wanted more teenagers to know they can ask for work experience. "Many teenagers don't realise they can approach businesses and ask to do some work experience. There are many ways they can achieve their goals and getting work experience is one option. The Ciabatta Bakery has been so wonderful taking Haans on at such a young age and mentoring him. They were big influencers in Haans' decision to do a diploma in patisserie and bakery."

Ms Paraki said Haans loved having the bakery as a weekend job. "He is so passionate about baking. Even after an eight hour shift, when I pick him up he is so happy and excited for his next day of work."