Laura Williams, a Level 4 floristry student at the College recently secured first place in the first annual heat for the WorldSkills UK Floristry competition. She competed alongside two of her peers and other visiting colleges in a round hosted for the second year running by the Floristry department at the College’s Cannington campus.

Contestants completed three designs including a memorial wreath, modern arrangement and shoulder corsage. One judge commented, “The standard of work produced was very high and the next five heats have a tough act to follow.”

After the remaining regional heats have concluded in June, the British Florist Association will announce the highest eight scores and those competitors will go on to compete in the final at the NEC Birmingham in November. Laura was one of the finalists in last year’s finals and hopes to repeat her success.

Course Leader Jacqui Weaver said, “We encourage our students to explore various competitions throughout their time at College as it gives them invaluable opportunities to build their existing skills. We’re so proud of Laura and wish her lots of luck.”