Merton Adult Learning - Floristry

Olga Paprotska is from Ukraine and, after the war started, moved to the UK in 2023. She is taking a Floristry Course with Merton Adult Learning to retrain in a new career path. 

Olga says: "I was a power weight lifting referee in Ukraine and I'm now looking for a change of career. I began doing an online Interior Design course and then started attending the Floristry Course at Merton College. This is the first step in Interior design as they both have the same principles and composition rules. I found it more effective to learn a new skill by being hands on, using all of the senses. On a computer you can choose lots of different colours but flowers and foliage have their own colours and shades that you cannot change. 

The terminology used within the course has improved my English and has been beneficial for my Mental Health, When I'm taking the class, I focus on the flowers and designs and it takes away the stresses of everyday life. I keep my creations in my home and it reminds me of what I have achieved. Once I've gained more skills, I'm confident this course will help me to gain employment and offer more opportunities."