Plymouth florist Sachiko Smale has won through to the national final of the UK Skills Advanced Floristry competition.
Sachiko, who is studying for her Level 5 Master Diploma of Professional Floristry [NDSF] at Bicton College, created a stunning bridal bouquet for a trendy bride who was getting married in a castle. Sachi said, ‘I was very surprised when my name was called as the winner - I could not believe it and my heat beat ever so fast! What an experience! This is almost the first competition for me and everything I experienced was new. It took a lot of preparation and actual time to construct the design. I faced lots of technical problems while creating it; but I have learnt a lot of skills on my Master Diploma course which I used in the design.’ She added, ‘Winning this competition has proved that I am doing fine and has given me more confidence for my exams, I’m looking forward to the final.’
Bicton College floristry tutor Sarah Hills-Ingyon NDSF FSF, said ‘I am truly thrilled for Sachi. All the commitment and hard work it takes to compete is a tremendous draw on time and resources and her first place is a true reward of her updated skills and efforts to achieve excellence. This terrific accomplishment will hopefully be an inspiration to Sachi in her forthcoming Level 5 Master Diploma examinations in July. ‘
As the highest scoring competitor in the South West heat, Sachiko has been invited to compete in the UK final to be held at the Royal Horticultural Society show at Tatton Park in July 2011. The winner at that event will represent the UK at the World Skills final in London this October.
To find out more about the floristry courses at Bicton College book a place on the Bicton Course Advice Day, Saturday 25th June. To book call 01395 562400 or email slo@bicton.ac.uk
For more information about Bicton College view their feature here
