HAVING discovered a flair for flower arranging on a community course, Joanna Ellis took the bold decision to change career direction and began a floristry apprenticeship at ncn.
Just one year later, Joanna has used the skills and confidence gained from her course to set up her own successful wedding and events floristry business.
She said: "Completing my apprenticeship at a florist's in Chesterfield was great because I gained practical experience in the shop and learnt the skills and techniques to support me in the classroom.
"I found that combining work and study gave me a thorough knowledge of the floristry world and opened my eyes to the possibility of starting my own company.
"Ncn instilled me with a confidence in my ability. My lecturers were very supportive and flexible. They made me feel able to go it alone.
"Sometimes it was hard to get through the apprenticeship programme, as I was used to a higher salary, but I have no regrets – I'm doing a job I love and my company, Lotus Flower Wedding and Events Floral Designers, is going from strength to strength."
Floristry is just one of many apprenticeship programmes that ncn offers.
If you're thinking of retraining, fancy a career in floristry or would like more details on apprenticeships, visit www.ncn.ac.uk, call 0115 9 100 100 or email enquiries@ncn.ac.uk.