Floristry is an interesting, creative and varied career. It involves working as part of a small friendly team, usually in a retail or business based environment. Floristry offers job
satisfaction seldom matched by other professions. The professional florist is needed to provide displays at weddings, funerals and exhibitions, for gifts and to undertake a variety of corporate work.
With appropriate professional skills there are opportunities for you to establish your own business. Floristry students study design skills, use of colour, cut flowers/foliages, plants, and learn retail, business and customer care skills. BCA is recognised as the foremost centre for floristry training in the Thames Valley region.
We have excellent resources, which include:
- Dedicated floristry rooms
- A wealth of living plant material
- Extensive grounds and glass-houses
- Experienced and professional team of staff
- Display facilities
Click here to find out more about our facilities.
Courses available: Click on a course to find out more
Level 1 Diploma in Floristry (1 year)
This course provides a sound knowledge and skills base which will allow progression to further learning or qualifications, or into employment opportunities.
Programme content
- Identify flowers, foliage and plants
- Assemble basic floral designs
- Develop skills necessary for working in a florist shop
- Produce and maintain shop displays
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at Grade E and above, or an Entry Certificate.
Plus a satisfactory school reference and successful completion of an Inital Assessment.
Assessment method
All units are assignments and a portfolio of evidence is required to obtain a higher grade.
Equipment needed
A basic floristry kit is needed, which can be purchased through the college.
Progression
Students who achieve a Merit level and a functional skill will be able to progress onto the Level 2 Diploma in Floristry.
Employment opportunities
This course will provide employment opportunities such as a junior or trainee florist.
Level 2 Diploma in Floristry (1 year)
This course builds on the Level 1 Diploma in Floristry to enhance your basic knowledge and practical skills, enabling you to become a practicing florist. It is ideal for people who are interested in making a career out of this area.
Programme content
- Identification and processing of cut materials and pot plants
- Introduction to art and design florists
- Introduction to plant processes and planted designs
- Introduction to hand tied and presentation floral designs
- Introduction to funeral and sympathy floral designs
- Design and construction of floral arrangements
- Simple floral wedding designs and accessories
- Displays of floristry goods
- Introduction to working in the floristry industry
- Process, cost and evaluate floral designs
- Introduction to function decorating using floral designs
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at Grade D and above, or Level 1 Diploma, BTEC Introductory Certificate or NVQ Level 1 or equivalent.
Plus a satisfactory school reference and successful completion of an Inital Assessment.
Assessment method
All units are assessed by assignments. There are a number of hours of work experience which forms part of the overall qualification.
Equipment needed
A basic floristry kit is needed which can be purchased through the college. You will need to purchase your own flowers to use throughout the course and for assessments.
Progression
Upon successful completion of this course at Merit Level or above, students can progress to the Level 3 Diploma in Floristry.
Employment opportunities
You will be able to enter the floristry industry and continue your studies by studying the Level 3 Diploma in Floristry (subject to grade).
Level 3 Diploma in Floristry (1 year)
This qualification builds on the Level 2 Diploma in Floristry and gives a greater depth and understanding to the skills gained at Level 2. It will prepare learners for supervisory positions.
Programme content
- Diverse flower and plant care
- The creative design process for florists
- Hand held floral designs
- Diverse floral designs for weddings and formal occasions
- Assembly of diverse floral arrangements
- Assembly of diverse floral designs for sympathy tributes
- Working in the floristry industry
- Process, cost and evaluate diverse floral designs
- Function and event decoration using floral displays
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at Grade C or above, plus Level 2 Diploma Floristry at Merit level.
Entrance for mature students will be dependent upon industry experience.
Assessment method
All units are assessed by assignments.
Equipment needed
A basic floristry kit is needed which can be purchased through the college. You will need to purchase your own flowers to use throughout the course and for assessments.
Progression
Successful completion of this course can lead to study for the Level 4 Higher Diploma in Floristry.
Employment opportunities
This course will give you the appropriate skills to run your own business.
