Stephanie Willoughby

Skill:

Floristry

Home Town:

East Sussex

Employer:

Plumpton College

Qualifications:

GCGI
NDSF
RHODEC International Diploma

Other training:

A1/ V2 (D33, D34, D35 Assessor E.V)
Cert ED

Memberships :

British Florist Association
UK Guild of Judges

Are you City & Guilds qualified?:

Yes

What involvement have you had with competitions?:

I participated in WorldSkills competitions inHelsinki 2005, Shizuoka 2007 and Calgary 2009.

Who would you like to thank for their support?:

I would like to thank Ian Lloyd from the UK School of Floristry for training and Alison Bradley from Fusion Flower Magazine for encouragement.

What made you take on this role?:

I wanted to train a young competitor to the highest possible standard in the world.

Why do you think WorldSkills is important?:

It is the best opportunity a young competitor can get.

What do you enjoy most about your role?:

Seeing the development in confidence and skill is fantastic.

How are you using this experience in your workplace?:

I am using all the Brathay training, especially the coaching skills in tutorials. I am also using negotiating skills with the students.

What do you think being part of this process does for young people?:

It changes them – they mature visibly!

What sets a WS competitor apart from your average young person?:

The possess the focus, determination, great positive attitude, mature outlook and a high level of skill.

What would be your message to industry about entering future competitions?:

Just enter – even if it all goes pear shaped you will learn so keep entering.

What impact will WorldSkills London 2011 have on your industry?:

The UK will finally have the chance to see what WorldSkills offers young competitors.

Something we didn’t know about you...:

I love heavy metal and very loud rock music.

Part of the National Apprenticeship Service