Q. What qualifications route did you take to realise your career?
 I have a degree in Garden Design from Middlesex University

Q. Please explain in detail what students will learn during your course?
 The course is extremely comprehensive and intense but in essence they learn how to find the answers to questions and problems - they learn how to be a gardener and a designer!

Q. What’s the first thing you teach your students?
 We teach them all to draw and the theory of design.

Q. What qualities do you need to succeed in your industry?
 Honesty, to be hard-working and a passion for the subject.

Q. What are the benefits of studying your subject?
 It is so wide that to be a garden designer you need to learn many things - that makes the process really interesting and challenging too.

Q. Please explain why you love your subject?
No two days are the same, every project is challenging in some respect and it is so rewarding to see my gardens mature over the years.

Q. What skills do your students have by the end of the course?
They will be well-rounded designers who are really prepared to tackle all kinds of projects and they are equipped with the skills to know where to find the answers to many things.

Q. What do students normally do once they’ve finished their course?
They either find a job within a design studio or they set up by themselves. We do assist in finding them work.

Q. What’s the best way to go about getting a job in your industry?
Be prepared to network and do work experience in a few places - work hard and be honest.

Q. Can you describe a typical day in your working life?
 There is no typical day!  But I may be meeting clients, teaching students, organising course work. It may be a day of hands-on work on a site or a day in the studio.

Q. What advice do you have for people interested in studying a course like yours?
Do your research and really think hard about what it is that excites you about garden design. Be open and not afraid to learn new skills.