The Floristry School

FAQs

Why us?

We individualise all our learners and encourage them to develop in a way that will suit their learning style. We have a wealth of commercial floristry experience, together with formal teacher training qualifications which enables us to inspire and guide our learners through the courses and qualifications we offer. We add value to all our courses by working with specialist florists, floral artists and designers, bringing them to The Floristry School to work with our students on specialist subjects, helping to give the students a knowledge and understanding of the wide floral industry.

Can I do any course?

Yes - our courses are designed to support learners at a range of stages within their floristry education and professional development. Many of our programmes are ideal for those who hold a Level 2 floristry qualification or have practical experience working within the floristry industry. However, we also offer a selection of workshops and masterclasses that are appropriate for individuals with limited prior floristry knowledge. If you are unsure which course would be most suitable for your current level or learning goals, our team would be pleased to offer guidance.

Please contact us at hello@thefloristryschool.com with some information about your background and how you wish to develop within the floristry sector.

Applying for a course

Please contact us by clicking on the 'Apply now' button on our website and completing the information asked for or alternatively email us on: hello@thefloristryschool.co.uk and we will get back to you as soon as we can. We need to know that each student has chosen the course best suited to them so we interview all potential students to make sure they are confident the course will be developmental and achievable so that progression through the floristry world with the correct underpinning skills and design knowledge is achievable.

What will I learn?

Each course shown within the website, whether it's an accredited course or a masterclass workshop will have a detailed description of the course content attached. The information on the specific designer delivering the course is also shown so you will be able to understand their design styles and inspirations. Once you have enrolled on a course you will be sent a detailed list of tools which you will need for the class, timings for the class and any other relevant information needed. All flowers, foliages, plants and sundries needed for the workshops will be provided by The Floristry School.

What about Covid-19?

Please see The Floristry School's Covid policy shown at the base of the website. We have a large workshop with windows opening on both sides of the building, where students are able to socially distance adequately. There are hand sanitizing areas, hand washing facilities and signage throughout the workshop. We will ask you to use your NHS app to sign in once you arrive on site and we have an electronic thermometer to check your temperature. Our workbenches are set at 2.5m intervals throughout the workroom and only one student will work on a workbench at a time.

Just a little bit about the area

The Floristry School is located in Eagle Works within the Little Kelham development of Kelham Island in Sheffield, in a beautiful refurbished steel mill. The area around Kelham is home to numerous independent shops, cafes, bars and restaurants where students can pop out for a coffee and sandwich during break times. For students who are staying overnight there are many excellent hotels and guesthouses within walking distance of the school.

Our Team

Joanne Biddle MDPF, AFLoPF, Cert.Ed. EMC.

Jo is an English Master Florist and qualified teacher and has taught Floristry related subjects for over 20 years, during which time she owned a successful floristry retail business in Lincolnshire for 10 years. Jo is a member of the BFA Education and Training Committee and has helped to develop the new Level 2 Apprenticeship Florist Standard with the BFA and the Institute for Apprenticeships. Jo is currently studying towards the final part 3 of her European Masters qualification in Floristry. Jo teaches on the Level 5 Master Diploma programme and oversees and verifies the apprenticeship programmes.

Abigail McGuire Creative Director MDPF, AFIoPF

Abigail McGuire is an English Master Florist with over three decades of experience in the floristry industry. She previously owned and successfully operated a retail floristry business in the Sheffield area, establishing a reputation for excellence and creativity.

A qualified teacher and assessor, Abigail developed and currently leads the apprenticeship programme at The Floristry School, shaping the next generation of professional florists. As a dedicated industry ambassador and accomplished competitor, she provides mentorship and guidance to apprentices, fostering their development and supporting them in achieving their full potential within the profession.

Rebecca Hough MDPF, AFIoPF

Rebecca is a Master Florist and qualified lecturer with a successful background in competition work including winning RHS Chelsea Florist of the Year. Rebecca is a member of the BFA Education and Training Committee and works alongside the team to develop industry qualifications and Standards. Rebecca teaches on the Level 5 Master Diploma programme and is responsible for overseeing the quality and delivery of the Apprenticeship Standards and Level 4 Higher Diploma programme.

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For a future in flowers

Our Courses