About this course

All apprentices need to be employed within a retail floristry environment for a minimum of 30 hours a week. We can help you find employment in the industry, or you may already be working in a floristry business. Apprentices can start the course at any time throughout the academic year and need to be available to attend college once a week, if you are local to Sheffield or on-line for theory and practical sessions on a Wednesday.

The course is designed around 7 phases, over a 21-month period, with three separate end point assessments to be undertaken at the end of the apprenticeship. (Fast-track completion of the apprenticeship is available).

Phase 1 – Legislation and the Floral Industry

Monitoring and maintaining safe working practices. Company policies and procedures, undertaking risk assessments, consumer and employment law and understanding and working within GDPR guidelines.

Phase 2 – Botanical Knowledge

Procurement and management of fresh botanical materials.  Post harvest knowledge and understanding. Monitoring and rotating incoming botanical materials. Understanding and manipulating environmental conditions.  Managing indicators for pests, diseases or disorders. Developing, monitoring and evaluating wastage practices.

Phase 3 – Floral Design

Applying and developing the Principles and Elements of design, colour harmony and Design Schema to design practices. Developing designs through inspirations. Applying advanced design techniques and knowledge. Demonstrating sustainable working practices through design.  A range of designs to include, wired, tied, glued and design in a medium to be developed, justified and evaluated.

Phase 4 – Practical Techniques

Applying and developing a range of design techniques to include plant manipulation, wiring, attaching and water retention techniques to design briefs.

Phase 5 – External Floral Events

Interpreting job specifications. Planning designs through sketching and technology. Developing estimates, quotes, budgets, buying lists, stock and storage. Evaluating the design/event process.  Study influential floral designers – ethos and methods.

Phase 6 - Customer Service and Communication and Supervision.

Developing customer service initiatives and opportunities for sales.  Managing and monitoring customer expectations. Developing and managing feedback as a basis for improvement.  Ensure good working relationships and ensure an inclusive environment. Record keeping and website management. Develop business policies and practices.

Phase 7 – Working in the floral Industry

Understand and develop coaching and mentoring methodologies. Develop and understanding of the floral industry design competition and marking schemes. Implement, monitor and evaluate promotional displays. Understand financial forecasting for different floral seasons and peak periods.