A group of 10 floristry students from Dorset’s Coastland College (formerly Kingston Maurward College) enjoyed a tour of the Flower Market early on Monday morning.

Arriving at 7.15am, the group were keen to see Britain’s biggest wholesale flower market in action – and they weren’t disappointed. “The opportunity was incredibly valuable for our students,” said Floral Design teacher Peter Walkey, who trains students in both Level 2 and Level 3 floristry at the Dorchester-based campus.

“It gave them the chance to experience the industry first-hand, develop their skills in a real-world setting and gain a much better understanding of the opportunities available to them within the floristry industry,” he said. “Experiences like this visit to the Flower Market are invaluable in helping students to build their confidence and to make connections beyond the classroom.”

Starting with a welcome outside the Market, the students met with Flower Market customer Christopher Hammond-Davis. As the co-owner of renowned events florist Woodbrown, the students listened as Christopher revealed he’s a huge advocate of everything New Covent Garden Flower Market has to offer. “We’ve always supported the Market and it’s the physical interaction that is irreplaceable,” he said. “You can pick up two bunches, put them together, see how they work. Smell them, understand the colour, the longevity.”

The students then toured the ground floor to speak to wholesalers including veterans Sam Hardcastle from Bloomfield Wholesale Florist (pictured above), and Bryan Porter of Porters Foliage (pictured below), as well as self-confessed ‘newbie’ Oliver Hare (Chelsea Florals).

Sam explained how the supply chain works, with stock able to be replenished in less than 24 hours from his suppliers in the Netherlands. The students asked about bestselling blooms (depends on the time of year), where the flowers are grown (the Netherlands, Ecuador and England), and what it’s like to work in the industry (keeping warm was a top tip).

After visiting plant wholesalers Evergreen Exteriors Services and Quality Plants and touring sundries supplier Lavenders of Covent Garden, the students headed to the Flower Market’s first floor to see event florist Pinstripes & Peonies (P&P).

Despite being on a tight client deadline, P&P’s Head Florist Cece Boyadzhieva welcomed the students before handing over to Head of Creative Marisha Ahmed Wilde (pictured below). As senior creative lead, Marisha explained how she guides the artistic and design aspects of the company's luxury floral and event work, detailing her career as a retail florist before moving into events.

After a three-hour journey to London and almost two hours touring the Flower Market, the students ended their tour in the Garden Café for much-needed refreshments. “I’d like to thank everyone at the Flower Market who took the time to share their advice,” said Peter. “The students were buzzing when they jumped back on the bus!”

Coastland College specialises in horticulture, agriculture, animal welfare, countryside management and conservation, offering a hands-on learning environment. Find our more here.