About Us

NDSF, FBFA, CERT ED, Dutch Master, AIFD (US Master), LCGI, City & Guilds MDPF (Level 5 – British Master), Institute of Professional Florists (IoPF) Academic Fellow and RHS Chelsea Gold medallist

On starting out: “I started in floristry at 16 on a YTS scheme and just loved it from the start! I worked in a flower shop in Exmouth, studied for my floristry exams and ended up managing the shop, before moving to Bicton College as Head of Floristry.”

Proudest floristry moment: “I’m currently the only English florist to hold a Dutch Masters, and have since been awarded the American Masters (AIFD), British Masters (Level 5) and – in 2017 I achieved the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold medal.”

Academy Highlight: “Teaching floristry is a real passion for me, and I really believe in the importance of teaching technique and design well. I’m on the BFA’s Education and Training Board and demonstrate to florists all over the world, but nothing is more satisfying than seeing our Academy students progress over the course of their time with us”.

HDIF (BSC Hons), ACIB, Academy of Floral Art Level 3, City & Guilds Level 4, Institute of Professional Florists (IoPF) Senior Member and AIFD (US Master). MDPF City and Guilds Level 5 Florist, NAFAs Area Demonstrator.

On starting out: “I started out in the Bank until I caught the floristry bug 14 years ago! I went on a floristry course at Weston-super-Mare College, did work experience at my local florist shop, became a NAFAS member and started studying at the Academy of Floral Art. I now have my own wedding and event floristry business in North Somerset.”

Proudest floristry moment: “I was thrilled to gain a distinction my Academy Level 3 exam and then complete the City & Guilds Level 4 course with the Academy. In fact, my proudest floristry moments have all been through the Academy: I won first place in the Manchester heat of WorldSkills UK, was part of our RHS Hampton Court exhibit, and passed the American Masters AIFD.”

Academy highlight: “I now teach and support the Academy’s on-line learners, which is such an honour. Having learnt so much with the Academy, it is great to be able to pass that knowledge on to floristry’s newest recruits!”

BSc MSc PhD (education), BAFA Floristry level 2 & 3, C&G Level 4 Floristry, MDPF City and Guilds Level 5 Florist

Starting out ….

I was a late bloomer so to speak. After many years working in higher education I took a career break and discovered the world of floristry. I attended my local agricultural college in Derbyshire for recreational classes and was soon smitten

After moving to Devon I pursued my formal training with the Academy and I’m now studying for my Masters qualification. I have my own studio business and enjoy the freedom of freelance work.

Proudest Floristry Moment ….

Floristry is hard work but totally rewarding. There is nothing more satisfying than being creative and making people smile. My proudest moment is being nominated as BFA IoPF student of the year and reaching the final nomination list. Being a medalist at Fleurex two years in a row was pretty cool too. I have had some exciting opportunities and met some fascinating people along the way from pop stars to movie makers – yes this is a creative industry and I’ve been fortunate enough to meet a lot of interesting folk and work in some historic sites and buildings.

Academy Highlight….

The world is a funny place, I started out in teaching and have taken a journey which has led be right back there! But I’m pleased about that because the Academy is such an exceptional place to learn. I teach the workshops and beginners floristry and I’m just as proud as punch to be at the start of other people’s floristry journey. As a teacher I feel totally supported by my colleagues and Tina and the team guide and inspire in equal measure. It’s great to be part of the team.

NVQ 2 &3, I.C.S.F & Cert Ed

On starting out: “I started out working as a Dental Nurse and then a Clerical Officer in the MOD, but when my children started school, I decided I wanted to re-train. I have always loved all types of art and craft and am entranced by flowers and particularly greenery, so floristry really appealed to me. I enrolled on a course at Bicton and at the same time was offered part-time work in a local florist. That was the start of my love of floristry, I was well and truly hooked!”

Proudest floristry moment: “After four years of floristry training at Bicton College (gaining top student in practical and theory for two years running), I was lucky to be offered the opportunity to teach recreational classes. I undertook my teacher training and ended up teaching the industry qualification and became an NVQ Assessor in the workplace. I feel if you are lucky enough to pursue a career you love and are passionate about it, there is no greater feeling. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to share and pass on my skills and knowledge, and see the pleasure and confidence it brings to students, of all ages and abilities.”

Academy Highlight: “Having enjoyed working for Bicton College for many years, I felt ready for a change and a new challenge. I feel particularly honoured to be asked to join the Academy teaching team. I know how dedicated and aspirational Tina and the team are, nothing is impossible, the sky’s the limit and also how positive, enthusiastic and supportive the other tutors are too. The Academy offers high-quality teaching and courses that are flexible to suit all needs, and I am so excited to be part of such a talented, inspirational team and to work in such beautiful surroundings. Happy days!”

RHS Horticultural Cert,

On starting out: “I have spent the last twenty years tending and managing wonderful gardens, landscapes and estates in Devon and the Cotswold’s. I first discovered a love of Horticulture and the outdoors whilst working on a temporary contract at the wonderful Endsleigh estate on the banks of the Tamar, here I met the wonderful Amanda Randell-Cox who helped me secure my first proper gardening job, I have never looked back!”

Proudest floristry moment: “I hope this is yet to come. I have always loved growing and arranging flowers for the private households that I have worked on, having joined the Academy to tutor Horticulture I am thoroughly looking forward to gaining my formal Floristry qualifications”.

Academy highlight: “Now! I am very proud and excited to be asked to join the academy as a tutor and cannot wait to meet lots of new people and help them get their cut flower gardens blooming”.

Irene is a linchpin of our team and is often found behind the scenes handling our office enquiries and bookings and doing all things admin.

Born and raised in the West Country, a farmer’s daughter and mum of two, she likes to spend time with family and friends walking in the countryside.

She has a long career in the hospitality and tourism industry and has experience in all aspects of the trade.

Her passionate love of cooking for others and for searching out new venues to dine at, has always been something that has interested her and she is always willing to sample cake!!

Favourite flower - Lily-of-the-valley because of it’s cute bell shaped, sweet smelling flowers and how it reminds her of visiting her Grandmother’s garden as a small child.