Kelcy Blair – CAFRE

My name is Kelcy Blair and I have always experienced a benefit from being outdoors, which developed my interest in Horticulture. I heard about opportunities to study Horticulture at Greenmount Campus so I applied for the Level 2 Practical Horticulture Skills course. It was a one year course, after which I progressed onto the Level 3 programme.  

Before I started studying at Greenmount, I was not aware of the wide variety of job opportunities, but soon discovered the career and progression opportunities available. Throughout my studies at CAFRE, I have been introduced to so many different branches of horticulture – from landscaping, commercial production, conservation and estate work, there is definitely something for everyone no matter where your interest may lie.  

What I enjoy most about this course is the close link of practical learning to classroom theory. Adding the practical application of horticulture skills gives an entirely more rounded experience to learning which for me really helps.  

Many different learning opportunities have opened to me while doing the Level 3 course in Horticulture. On top of the broad range of classes, we undertake short courses to gain certificates of competence and go on study trips to parks and private gardens, horticulture production units and garden retail businesses. These experiences add value to our understanding.  I had an amazing opportunity to compete in the World Skills competition in Landscaping in autumn 2021. This allowed me to do some extra training in hard landscaping and to travel to England to compete in the competition – a life changing experience! 

I hope to progress onto the Foundation Degree as I appreciate the value of having a higher qualification for so many jobs.  I am so excited about what the future holds for me in horticulture – there is still so much for me to learn and experience!