26 June 2009

Valerie Orr, from Ballygowan, Co. Down, celebrates her academic success at Greenmount Campus, CAFRE, with a keen eye on developing her own cut flower business in the near future.

In addition to achieving a Commendation in her Foundation Degree in Amenity Horticulture, Valerie won the Alpine Garden Society (NI) prize for Plantsmanship, as well as the overall Top Horticulture Student award.

Valerie, an active member of her local Young Farmers’ Club, joined the two year Foundation Degree programme with a view to furthering her entrepreneurial ambitions. As part of her studies, her chosen Applied Investigative Project focused on the feasibility of growing a cut flower crop on her home farm. Valerie consolidated this interest by successfully completing the Diversification Challenge Business Planning Programme, at the same time.

“The range of technical and commercial modules available on the Foundation Degree in Amenity Horticulture, meant that I could choose the right blend of studies for me. The support and facilities at Greenmount are first class.”

Valerie is currently engaged in the ‘Growing and Marketing Cut Flowers and Foliage’ training programme at Greenmount, whilst balancing her work life between ‘Greenbank Landscapes & Nurseries’ and her home farm.

Valerie Orr, celebrating her academic success with silverware and cut flowers at the Horticulture Development Centre, Greenmount Campus, CAFRE