A passion for petals: Suzie finds a future in floristry at CAFRE

Date published: 26 August 2025

“I was first introduced to and fell in love with floristry thanks to my granny,” Suzie shares. “Then I entered a floral art competition with the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU), and that really opened my eyes to see it as a career.”

After completing the Level 2 qualification in floristry at CAFRE, Suzie knew she wasn’t finished with learning: “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do after school, but once I started studying floristry I realised, I honestly loved it. Greenmount Campus offers a Level 3 part-time floristry course which has the added benefit of employment within a floristry shop. I work in the Castle Florist in Ballycastle which is owned by Michael Magee. I’m getting the best of both worlds,” adds Suzie.

Learning, growing, and gaining confidence

Remarking on her studies, Suzie said: “What stands out most about studying floristry at CAFRE is the connection the staff have with the students. They’re always pushing us to do our best.” Suzie is especially passionate about the hands-on elements of the course: “I love designing floral arrangements and showing them off. Completing the programme, I’ve grown so much in confidence, both socially and practically. I never expected that,” comments Suzie.

Support, friendship, and finding your people

Suzie remarked her journey wasn’t a solo one: “Initially my sister helped me look into floristry courses available, but it was my floristry lecturer who really encouraged me to progress on to the Level 3 programme.”

Beyond the classroom, Suzie’s found something just as valuable - friendship: “I’ve met people I never would have crossed paths with if it wasn’t for CAFRE. Not just in my course, but across campus. It’s great to study on a campus where the other students all have a similar interest to you. I meet so many familiar faces thanks to my links with the YFCU.”

Balancing life and study

Like many students, Suzie juggles a lot, with jobs and involvement in the YFCU. Suzie said: “It’s tough to fit everything in. Last year I stepped down as Club Secretary for Kilraughts YFCU. I regretted it at first, but seeing how much I’ve progressed at CAFRE, I know it was the decision for me. It’s also allowed another member to develop their experiences and skills within the Club.”

A career that blossoms

Inspired by floral art competitions, Suzie entered and won the Northern Ireland heat of the British Florist Association (BFA) Newcomer of the Year. She will now progress on to compete at Fleurex 2025 in the live Finals being held in the East Midlands in October. Suzie’s dream is to one day open her own flower shop in her local town. But first, she’s considering heading to England to complete a Level 4 qualification and gain even more skills and experiences in floristry.

Suzie’s advice to you

“If you’re thinking about studying at CAFRE - do it. There are so many different options and courses for everyone. I started not knowing anyone, and now I’ve made friends for life. You’re always supported, and it’s honestly a great place to grow.”

If you are inspired by Suzie and her passion for flowers, there’s still time to consider studying floristry at CAFRE, Greenmount Campus, Antrim this September. Apply for a Level 2 course if you are new to the area to develop your knowledge and skills of floral art. A Level 3 Apprenticeship training programme enables those working in a floristry business to further develop their knowledge and skills and stay up to date with industry trends.

For course information please visit the CAFRE website.