Student Profile

Photograph of Sophie Jones

Sophie Jones

Graduated: Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Floristry
Nationality: British
Occupation: Business Owner of Ivy Rose Florist which opened in February 2016. Prior to this I was working as a freelance florist for several Essex-based florists.

Why did you choose to study at Writtle University College?
Writtle has a great reputation in the industry and I immediately felt inspired and that it was the place for me on my first visit!

What does Writtle University College mean to you?
A change of lifestyle! I will forever remember my time spent at Writtle. I enjoyed every moment of my learning and was supported by a great team of staff and peers. Writtle has given me the skills and motivation to open my own business and I will forever recommend the College.

What did you particularly enjoy about your course?
The level of support and enthusiasm throughout from all of my tutors and the opportunities that I was given in my two years at Writtle.

My Career Path
I attended Writtle College for two years, ending June 2015, and in my time completed both Level 2 and 3 Floristry. Whilst studying, I was invited to compete on the Alan Titchmarsh show. I won the competition and a member of the marketing team contacting the Brentwood Gazette who then featured this in an article.

I have now used my skills and opened my first florist shop in Brentwood on Saturday. I am so grateful for not only what I was taught at Writtle but also the most amazing support from all of the staff I came into contact with, especially my Tutors – Elaine Thackray, Jan Metcalfe and Helen Sheard, and the general atmosphere of the college. I believe that it was my experience at Writtle that pushed me to make this step and I would not ever hesitate to recommend the college due to my experience.

Future Plans
I am hoping that my new business venture 'Ivy Rose Florist' will be a success and that I can grow this business further in the future.