Best Florist Schools Around the World
Becoming a professional florist or enhancing your floral design skills requires education from reputable schools or programs. Whether you're an aspiring florist, an established professional looking to specialize, or a hobbyist seeking to refine your craft, here’s a florist guide to some of the best florist schools worldwide.
1. Judith Blacklock Flower School (London, UK)
Overview: One of the most respected floral design schools in the UK, offering a wide range of courses from beginner to professional levels.
Specializations: Wedding floristry, business-focused floral design, and European floral trends.
Program Highlights: Flexible short courses and diplomas that combine theory with practical workshops.
Why It’s Notable: Accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) and known for high teaching standards.
2. Boerma Instituut (Aalsmeer, Netherlands)
Overview: Located near the world-famous Aalsmeer Flower Auction, this Dutch school is a hub for European floral design.
Specializations: European floral techniques, hand-tied bouquets, and advanced floristry.
Program Highlights: International diploma programs and short masterclasses.
Why It’s Notable: Focuses on teaching Dutch floral design, which emphasizes natural arrangements.
3. FlowerSchool New York (New York City, USA)
Overview: A prestigious school known for combining floral artistry with a focus on the business side of floristry.
Specializations: Event and wedding design, luxury floral arrangements, and modern floral techniques.
Program Highlights: Courses taught by renowned florists and connections to NYC’s top floral industry players.
Why It’s Notable: Offers a unique combination of creative and entrepreneurial training.
4. Paula Pryke Flower School (London, UK)
Overview: Founded by the renowned florist Paula Pryke, this school is ideal for those seeking high-end floral artistry training.
Specializations: High-end event floristry, wedding florals, and color theory in design.
Program Highlights: Workshops are tailored for professionals looking to create signature styles.
Why It’s Notable: Paula Pryke’s influence as a trailblazer in luxury floristry adds prestige.
5. Academy of Floral Art (Exeter, UK)
Overview: Located in Devon, this academy offers a comprehensive curriculum for all skill levels.
Specializations: Contemporary floristry, business-focused modules, and advanced diplomas.
Program Highlights: City & Guilds-accredited courses for professional qualifications.
Why It’s Notable: The academy places strong emphasis on individual creativity and business acumen.
6. Australian Flower School (Brisbane, Australia)
Overview: A leading institution in Australia offering flexible, practical training for florists at all levels.
Specializations: Bridal floristry, event floristry, and contemporary techniques.
Program Highlights: Online and in-person courses cater to both local and international students.
Why It’s Notable: Known for its friendly, hands-on teaching approach.
7. Escola de Arte Floral (Barcelona, Spain)
Overview: A top choice for learning Mediterranean and European floral techniques.
Specializations: Traditional and avant-garde floral designs, bridal floristry, and seasonal arrangements.
Program Highlights: Practical workshops in a vibrant cultural setting.
Why It’s Notable: Combines Spain’s rich artistic heritage with cutting-edge floral trends.
8. Nicole's Flower Design School (Singapore)
Overview: A leading Asian floral design school known for offering Japanese and European-inspired techniques.
Specializations: Ikebana, hand-tied bouquets, and large-scale event designs.
Program Highlights: Short courses and certifications for beginners and professionals.
Why It’s Notable: Incorporates Asian aesthetics with modern global trends.
9. Tokyo Floral Institute (Tokyo, Japan)
Overview: This institute focuses on Japanese Ikebana and contemporary floral art.
Specializations: Ikebana, fusion designs, and floral sculptures.
Program Highlights: Courses blend traditional Japanese techniques with modern global styles.
Why It’s Notable: Offers insight into Japan’s unique floral philosophy.
10. Interflora Training Academy (Various Locations, Europe)
Overview: A pan-European institution offering professional training for florists linked to the Interflora network.
Specializations: Retail floristry, business skills, and innovative floral designs.
Program Highlights: Focus on practical, business-oriented skills for florists.
Why It’s Notable: Strong industry ties and practical training for those pursuing careers in commercial floristry.
Tips for Choosing a Florist School
Define Your Goals: Are you looking to specialize in wedding floristry, learn traditional styles, or start your own floral business? Choose a school that aligns with your objectives.
Accreditation and Reputation: Check if the school is accredited or recognized in the industry for delivering high-quality training.
Flexibility: Look for online or part-time courses if you have a busy schedule or live far from the school.
Practical Training: Ensure the program includes hands-on workshops to develop real-world skills.
Industry Connections: Schools with strong ties to florists and suppliers can offer better networking and job opportunities.
Best florist tips
Florist schools around the world offer unique approaches to floral design, from Dutch techniques to Japanese Ikebana and beyond. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of European floristry or the bold innovation of modern trends, investing in a program from one of these esteemed institutions will enhance your skills and help you bloom in the industry.
