Tracy Benton

Tracy Benton has been in the industry for over 25 years; after passing the L2 floristry qualification at her local college, she started up her own freelance business, whilst raising her two children. Once they started in full time education, Tracy went back to college where she achieved the Advanced National Certificate, the Higher Diploma in Floristry and the Certificate in Education within 5 years, whilst running her own retail shop in Kent. Tracy then went on to complete the Master Diploma in Professional Floristry in 2014; the highest qualification you can achieve in the UK.  Throughout the years in industry, she has attended numerous specialist courses to ensure she maintains her position in industry and education.

A present, Tracy lecturers part-time, she is a Subject Specific Expert, Principal Moderator and Chief Examiner for City and Guilds, as well as taking over the role of Chair for UK Floristry Judges Guild. So far during her career she has had many wonderful opportunities; event florist for Imperial College, Knightsbridge and created flowers for HRH The Queen, and was a member of the skills council speaking about CPD in her subject for Institute for Learning in the House of Commons. Her roles for City and Guilds has involved her in writing the new Technical and T-Level qualifications, current to education and industry.

Tracy is traditional, yet creative florist, with a modern twist, because although the techniques have stayed the same, the methods have evolved, with thoughts on sustainability and our carbon footprint forever at the forefront of our mind. Tracy enjoys nothing more than sharing her knowledge and inspiration to others; she is passionate about raising professional standards and encouraging a high level of practical skills with meticulous attention to detail; she also firmly believes training, education and competitions are the driving force that regulates and raises awareness that floristry is a professional body.