My name is Jasmine Clarke, and I am currently studying for a Level 2 Technical Certificate in Floristry at CAFRE’s Greenmount Campus.
I am 24 years old, and I live in Omagh, County Tyrone. My education started in Dunmullan Primary School,. Following this, I attended Omagh Academy Grammar School. I left school with 9 GCSE’s and 3 A Levels. However, I decided not to enroll in university and went into full-time employment in hospitality.
I did not have a set employment path I wanted to go down. Although, in Summer 2021, a job opportunity became available in Floral Temptations, a local flower shop. I immediately felt like it was the right choice for me. I was familiar with the shop as I had previously completed my sixth form work experience there. My work experience in school sparked my interest in floristry because I could be creative. It was great to see people appreciate the service being provided. Floral Temptations is owned and run by Greenmount Floristry graduate Judith Kempston.
Since then, I have worked with and shadowed Judith for 2 years. She has given me invaluable advice and guidance, finding time to teach me floristry skills while also balancing running her own business. All this helped me develop a clear interest in continuing in floristry as a full-time employment path. I am extremely grateful to Judith for the support I received, and the encouragement given to apply to the Greenmount floristry course to allow me to expand my knowledge and skills.
I am really enjoying studying Level 2 floristry. The campus is set on beautiful grounds and Greenmount has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The support from the tutors allows me to develop to the best of my ability. I am learning key elements involved in the floristry industry and I gain more confidence in my skills every day. Despite working alongside an experienced florist for 2 years, I have already learnt so many new things in both the theory and practical sides of the course and it is helping me become a more competent florist. It is helping me develop more technical aspects of floristry and I feel achieving my level 2 qualification will be beneficial in my future.
Since then, Jasmine has gone on to complete her Level 2 qualification, and graduated October 2024. She has continued her employment in Floral Temptation and is becoming a more knowledgeable and efficient florist. Jasmine is gaining more industry experience, working with an experienced florist has given her invaluable insight into the floristry trade. In the future, she aims to expand into wedding and event floristry under her employer’s guidance.
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