Overview

A florist may work in one of several sectors, in a shop, within an event company or for a variety of retail organisations. A successful florist understands the principles of design, aesthetics, composition and colour to capture the mood of the customer. Florists must also be able to source, purchase and store floral materials which by their nature are fragile and short-lived. A florist is aware of which flowers are available in which seasons of the year and which flowers work well in combination with each other and offer advice and translate a client’s vision into displays that are beautiful and captivating.

Competitors will be expected to be able to interpret a brief and design floral displays interpreting a theme, using dominance, contrasts and combinations of colour effectively to create harmony in design. They will also be able to apply the principles and elements of floral design and ensure dominance of botanical materials feature in the designs.

Competitors will need to understand how to condition these floral materials and plants, taking into account irritant or poisonous materials, the variety of stem types and show appropriate cutting, watering and feeding methods. They will need to work in a way that minimises damage to the environment and maintain health and safety codes of practice.

How competing helped Clara build self-confidence.

The skills you need to demonstrate

  • Creativity

  • Organisational skills

  • How to choose and use colour

  • Interpersonal Skills

  • Time Management

  • Design Skills

  • Customer Service Skills

  • Knowledge of Flower

  • Plant Care

Entry criteria

  • This is an individual competition
  • There is no limit to the number of entries per organisation
  • Whilst there is no stipulation about the level of floristry required to enter, competitors MUST be familiar with the core competencies (these can be found in the ‘Useful Information’ section below) and MUST NOT have more than 5 years industry experience.
  • Competitors must have a high standard of basic techniques such as wiring, taping and construction methods together with an understanding of how to apply these professional standards in practical work.

How it works

Our competitions are open to all so please register between 27 February – 24 March 2023

The first stage of competition is a remote or online test (where applicable)

Competitors take part in competitions in venues across the UK or online

Scores are quality assured and Finalists are announced

Competitors prepare and practise in readiness for the National Finals

The Finalists come together to compete in the National Finals

Competitors who are age eligible and have achieved the benchmark score will be invited to opt into Squad UK during December 2022 for the WorldSkills Lyon 2024 cycle

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Kickstart a career in Floristry

If you’re interested in Floristry then visit our Careers pages to learn more.

Learn more about this career
Photo of florist arranging a bunch of pink flowers

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