Amy Holdsworth, National Certificate in Floristry, Greenmount Campus

My name is Amy Holdsworth and I am from Dungannon. Like many 16 year olds I left school not really knowing what to do. I had gained 8 GCSE’s and very much wanted to continue in education so I started a BTEC in construction which I hoped would  feed my interest in architectural design, but mid way through my second year I realised that it was not what I wanted to do. I was fortunate to get a full time position in the flower shop I‘d been working in part-time and I then applied to the National Certificate in Floristry at CAFRE.   

What I want from a career is something really challenging and where I can use my design ideas and creativity regularly. Floristry is just such a career and already this year we have made many designs in class. The tutors always let you add your own individual touches so no two arrangements or bouquets are ever the same. As a floristry student the main highlights of the year so far have been the demonstrations held at Greenmount where we have been able to see first hand some of the very best demonstrators from Holland and the UK. We have also had excellent local speakers from Teleflorist and the Society of Floristry, so we are constantly getting new ideas and tips.

I live on campus which has many advantages as well as only having a few metres to walk to get to class each morning. I have met people who share similar interests and we all learn from each other including the horticulture students.

I am off campus every Friday for my placement which is with “The Flower Bowl International” in Armagh. I have gained  a great deal of experience working here,  it allows me to put the theory I learn during the week into practice and I am looking forward to the busy times which are sure to test me to the limits with fussy customers and long hours.  However, I know it will be a rewarding experience and is one more building block that will lead me to a career as a “Floral Architect.”

Amy Holdsworth, a National Certificate in Floristry student, selecting spray roses to make up Christmas floral designs