blooms of benton floral academy
West Malling
Tracy Benton MDPF has been in the industry for over 25 years; after passing
basic floristry qualifications she started up her own business whilst raising
her two children. Once they started in full time education, Tracy went back to
college and after that there was no stopping her! She achieved the L3 Advanced
National Certificate in Floristry, L4 Higher Diploma in Floristry and the
Certificate in Education within 5 years whilst running her own retail florist
shop in Kent. Tracy then completed the Master Diploma in January 2014; the
highest qualification you can receive in the UK with Distinction and also
received the highest grade throughout the UK for the practical exam.
Furthermore, She also attends numerous CPD courses to ensure she retains her
position in the industry. Tracy understands what a vital tool CPD is and has had
the opportunity to attend the House of Commons on behalf of Institute for
Learning Skills Council to talk about her own subject specialism and how it
enhances the industry. Invited to launch Institute of Professional Floristry in
the Houses of Commons (2015). Tracy then went on to complete a gruelling 2-year
training programme to become a member of the UK Floristry Judges Guild so that
her highest professional standards filter down into a professional
industry.Tracy also has had the pleasure of being a Consultant to City & Guilds
for several years re-writing the level 2 & level 3 qualifications so that they
are current, commercial and in-line with what the florist needs and is now
Principal Moderator for C&G Technical qualifications.Tracy Benton is now the
Principal of Blooms of Benton Floral Academy after being a full-time lecturer at
Hadlow College for over 15 years, she takes pride in teaching the importance of
fine workmanship and always strives to maintain high standards in the industry.