These courses are designed for anyone who loves flowers and plants and has an interest in creating floral displays.
If you love flowers and plants and have an interest in creative design, floristry could be the career for you. Learn how to create stunning floral pieces for a wide range of occasions and events. Our students can explore their creative side and gain the practical skills and knowledge required for a career in the floristry industry.
We offer floristry college courses at our York Campuses. Our students can choose from a range of courses aimed at developing professional skills and enhancing career development. We also have provision for recreational learners who want to expand their knowledge of floristry. In addition to practical and theory-based lectures, there are opportunities to observe the auction houses in the Netherlands and the contemporary skills of the Dutch Masters. The department also invites professionals from the UK industry to present their design skills.
Our floristry students regularly win prizes at major shows. Students are encouraged to further their professional development by attending numerous competitions such as the Harrogate Flower Show and UK Skills.
The Student Services Team has more information for students who would like to receive financial assistance during their study with us.
At Askham Bryan College, we have strong links with florists and retailers throughout the region as well as with wholesalers and markets. Our students regularly compete in regional and national competitions, winning prizes at the Harrogate Spring Flower Show.
In 2021 the department won the ‘Training Provider of the Year’ award from the British Florist Association. The floristry teams have links within the industry supporting Interflora at the World Cup held in Manchester 2023, as well as flower festivals at All Saints North Street, York in conjunction with Heritage lottery, and events at Newby Hall, Castle Howard and York Minster.
Students studying floristry college courses will need a toolbox and a range of tools and equipment. A list will be supplied at enrolment and or Taster Days.
A keen interest in the industry is essential with links to local florists through Instagram and Facebook, alongside an understanding of the roles and benefits of British Florist Association and Interflora.
Books to support the course:
- Professional Floristry Manual by Lynda Owen and Cut Flowers
- Cut Foliage’s
- Houseplants by Su Whale (Jago Publishing)
Degree level students (Student Finance England)
Under 19s in full-time education (FREE)
All our students at level 2 and level 3 complete 150 hours of work placement as part of the study programme. This placement is selected by the student and can include retail florists, freelance florists, flower farmers and event florists. We will provide support to students in finding a suitable placement.
As job vacancies and work experience opportunities arise, these are displayed within the department.
The college offers a range of assistance and guidance through our Assisted Services Team.
Courses
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Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
15 weeks, -
Location
York,
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Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
1 Year, -
Location
Middlesbrough, York,
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Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
1 Year, 2 Years, -
Location
York,
-
Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
15 weeks, -
Location
York,
-
Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
1 Year, -
Location
Middlesbrough, York,
-
Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
1 Year, 2 Years, -
Location
York,
-
Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
15 weeks, -
Location
York,
-
Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
1 Year, -
Location
Middlesbrough, York,
-
Course Type
Further Education, -
Length
1 Year, 2 Years, -
Location
York,
Why Study Floristry at Askham Bryan College?
Studying floristry at Askham Bryan College gives you access to one of the UK’s leading land-based education providers, offering specialist facilities, expert teaching and outstanding industry links. Our floristry college courses combine hands-on practical training with creative design skills, helping you develop the confidence and experience needed to succeed in this vibrant industry.
As a specialist land-based campus, you’ll learn in dedicated floristry workshops, glasshouses and professional-standard workshops that mirror real working environments.
We are proud of our strong industry connections and competition success. Floristry students regularly compete – and win – at prestigious events such as the Harrogate Flower Show and UK Skills competitions, helping you build your portfolio and stand out to employers.
Small class sizes ensure personalised teaching and tailored support from our highly qualified tutors, all of whom bring extensive experience from across the floristry sector. Whether your goal is to work in a high-end florist, specialise in weddings, or run your own creative business, you’ll be supported every step of the way.
Our facilities are better than ever
- Lecture rooms
- Floristry workshops/classrooms
- Floristry shop
- Access to extensive glass houses
- Links with RHS facilities
- Opportunities to display and compete in regional and national competitions
Floristry at Askham Bryan College
Student Stories
Elen, Level 2 Floristry
“The tutors are very knowledgeable and approachable, they make the course very interesting and engaging for everyone. I have also made some really good friends on my course which makes it even better.”
Emma, Level 2 Floristry
“I’m a practical learner and love being outdoors so this college suited me really well. The course is helping me to grow my business and expand my knowledge.”
Nicola, Level 2 Floristry
“Getting to work on and around a land-based college is great, it’s one of the best parts about coming in every week. I also really enjoyed the trips, it was a fantastic experience.”
FAQs
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What is a typical week like? How much time is practical? How much is theory?
At all levels, the split is 70% practical and 30% theory.
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Where have past students ended up? What jobs could I do?
Many past students are now working in a florists in full and part-time positions. Some have set up their own business. Others have established a flower farm, or are working as a freelance florist for events and weddings.
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How many hours work experience do I need to do? How do I find a work placement? Do you find it for me?
150 hours work experience are required on both Level 2 and 3 programmes. Our Employability Team can assist in sourcing placements.
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What grades do I need?
Grade 4 (old grade C) in Maths and English, plus two other GCSEs at grade 4.
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Are there any exams?
Yes – there is a multiple choice health & safety exam, a multiple choice theory exam and a synoptic exam (Practical)
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How many UCAS points would I get?
No, UCAS points are not given for any of the floristry courses.
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What size are the classes?
Currently, the average class has 12 students.
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What previous experience do I need?
No experience is required, but a keen interest in art, floristry, flowers and plants is preferred.
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Is there a uniform? Is PPE provided?
You will need a college floristry apron, sensible footwear and warm clothes.