Apprentice florists may create a single arrangement for a specific purpose or multiple displays for special occasions such as weddings or funerals. They use their artistic abilities and understanding of many blooms to choose suitable flowers or plants for each occasion. Florists must understand when flowers and plants are in season and available.
Responsibilities
Throughout your apprenticeship, you may help:
- arrange displays of plants and flowers to attract customers
- talk to customers about their needs and help them choose flowers and plants
- take orders in person, on the phone and online
- keep flowers in perfect condition
- prepare arrangements for weddings, celebrations and funerals
- keep up to date on new floristry techniques and trends
- give plant care advice
- set up flower displays at events
- clean vases and keep the shop tidy.
Salary
- Starting salaries for an apprentice is £13,000 per year.
- Experienced florists can earn up to £24,000 per year.
Working hours
You will typically work 28 to 30 hours per week. Working weekends on a rota basis.
Working environment
You could work at a store, on a market stall or in a workshop.
Your working environment may be cool.
Qualifications
Qualifications you can achieve as an apprentice florist include:
- Level 2 Florist – Entry requirements for this level include some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship.
This will usually take 2 years to complete as a mix of workplace learning and off-the-job study.
Skills
On a florist apprenticeship, you’ll learn:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with your hands
- the ability to work well with others
- customer service skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
- the ability to work on your own
- the ability to sell products and services
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could start your own business or become a freelance floral decorator, doing exhibition work, demonstrations and teaching.